The Riyadh Metro will commence operations this year according to Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, Saleh Al-Jasser. The minister emphasised that Riyadh Metro, in terms of scale, stands as the largest metro project globally to be constructed in a single phase.

The metro is part of the King Abdulaziz Project for Riyadh Public Transport, which aims to equip Riyadh with a public transport system that will provide all population groups with suitable public transport services. It is designed to accommodate existing and projected future mobility needs in Riyadh.

The public transport network will create an interconnected city, and features: six metro lines; 84 metro stations; 80 bus routes; 2,860 bus stops and 842 buses.

With six lines at a total length of 176km and 84 metro stations, the metro network will cover most of the city’s densely populated areas, public facilities, and the educational, commercial, and medical institutions. The network will be connected to King Khalid International Airport and King Abdullah Financial District, the main universities, downtown Riyadh, and the public transport center.

The metro will comprise:

Blue line: Axis of Al-Olaya – Al-Batha – Al-Hayer roads, with a total length of 38km
Red line: Axis of King Abdullah Road, with a total length of 25.3km
Orange line: Axis of Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah Road – Prince Saad Bin Abdurrahman I Road, with a total length of 40.7km
Yellow line: Axis of King Khalid International Airport Road, with a total length of 29.6km
Green line: Axis of King Abdulaziz Road, with a total length of 12.9km
Violet line: Axis of Abdurrahman Bin Awf Road – Sheikh Hassan Bin Hussain Bin Ali Road, with a total length of 30km

The Riyadh Metro project includes four main stations located in highly populated areas, at the intersections of metro lines and the bus network. The stations provide support services such as parking lots, ticket outlets, shops, and customer service offices. The four main stations are: Qasr Al-Hukm District; King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD); Western Metro Station; and STC Station.

Combined, the transport network and infrastructure will have a passenger capacity of 1.7m passengers per day in the initial operation phase.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

The Big Project Middle East (BPME) editorial team has announced that the 2024 edition of its Construction Intel Summit KSA will take place on 16 October. The one-day event will take place at the Radisson BLU Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the BPME editorial team confirmed.

The event will comprise keynote speeches, high-level panel discussions, and expert presentations and will focus on several themes including: accelerating the pace of construction in the Kingdom, maintaining construction quality and project vision over long delivery timelines, leveraging PPPs to develop civil and social infrastructure, building robust supply chains, and growing local construction content.

The event will bring together expert speakers from Saudi-based developers, consultants, contractors, suppliers and technology firms. Registration is complementary but mandatory.

“Saudi Arabia’s construction market is one of the most vibrant in the world, with an estimated value of approximately US $70.3bn according to the International Trade Administration organisation. Going forward, that value is expected to $91.36bn by 2029 as the Kingdom continues its journey to achieving the goals of Vision 2030 and the National Development Plan. The Kingdom has had some remarkable achievements since it embarked on its transformation journey but there’s still a long road ahead, which is why the key theme this year is on accelerating construction in the Kingdom, touching on several key issues connected with that goal,” said Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content at Big Project Middle East.

The 2024 Construction Intel Summit KSA is supported by:

Gold Sponsor: RIB | BuildSmart, RIB | Candy, RIB | CostX
Strategic Sponsor: ALEC, KEO International Consultants

To discuss participating at the event as a speaker, contact conference producer Jason Saundalkar on Jason.s@cpitrademedia.com. Sponsorship inquires can be addressed to Raz Islam (raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com) or Arif Bari (arif.bari@cpitrademedia.com).

To learn more about the 2024 Construction Intel Summit KSA, please click here.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

Horton Interiors has appointed Abdelmouamine Bougandoura to the position of Managing Director. Previously serving as Operations Director, his new role comes as a recognition of his leadership and track record in managing design and projects that consistently meet and exceed client expectations, the firm said in a statement.

In his earlier role Bougandoura was instrumental in delivering projects within scope, schedule, and budget, while maintaining standards of quality, with clients including Omniyat, Gensler, Allsop & Allsop, Mohammed Bin Rashid University, and Amanat Holdings.

“Having worked at Horton’s for six years, I have been privy to its impressive growth. We are coming into a new period of growth for the business as we outgrow our existing office space and move to bigger premises. We are also about to launch something completely new on the market so it’s an exciting opportunity for me to lead all of this. The next twelve months will see a lot of change, a lot of growth for the business and we don’t expect it to end with just the planned activities. Watch this space,” stated Bougandoura.

“We are thrilled to have Abdel step into this new role. His leadership and deep understanding of our mission to create spaces that not only showcase brands but also enhance operational efficiency have been key to our growth to date. We are confident that under his direction, Horton Interiors will continue to deliver outstanding results that exceed client expectations,” commented Abdelbasset Betraoui, CEO of Horton Interiors.

With a team of around 80 employees, Bougandoura will report to the CEO and lead the charge in remaining dedicated to transforming spaces into stylish, functional environments that are tailored to the specific needs of each client. The company’s mission is to create spaces that not only look exceptional but also provide maximum return on investment by aligning with clients’ operational goals and budgetary requirements, the statement concluded.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

Taraf, the real estate division of investment holding group Yas Holding, has announced T.M.F. Euro Foundation as the contractor for enabling works on CELLO Residences, a set of premium residences in the heart of Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC).

CELLO residences will feature architecture and interiors, offering an integration of work, living, and leisure. From open studios to one-to-three-bedroom apartments and four-bedroom penthouses, CELLO will epitomise contemporary living, the statement explained.

Low Ping, Group CEO of Yas Holding commented, “We are pleased to announce the collaboration with T.M.F. Euro Foundation (L.L.C.) on the enabling works for CELLO Residences, our latest project in JVC. We are confident that TMF’s extensive expertise and commitment to excellence and innovation will be pivotal in delivering the project. As we continue the journey to bring CELLO to fruition, we are committed to working alongside the finest in the industry; together, we will redefine the essence of luxury living, setting new benchmarks for ‘Work, Live and Play’ residential developments.”

Taraf’s fourth project, CELLO is situated close to Halfa Park & Community Park, Circle Mall, JSS International School, and Five Jumeirah Village, offering retail stores, restaurants, bars and cafés, nearby Al Khail Road and Hessa Street providing onward access to the rest of the city for business or leisure, the statement noted.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

International real estate developer MERED has announced the opening of its new headquarters in Dubai Internet City. The 45th-floor office was designed by Italian design house, Pininfarina.

The new office, spanning 1,300sqm, is said to reflect the developer’s continuous growth and evolving design philosophy, while also integrating distinctive elements to highlight its strong brand identity. The office space references MERED’s best-known building, Iconic Tower, with a design concept centered on ‘Connection and Contrast’, said a statement from the firm.

The sales area, using neutral tones Hungarian wood and Hi-Macs acrylic stone, is said to mirror the high-quality finishes of the developer’s upscale residences, creating a premium atmosphere. In contrast, the operational area is designed with functionality in mind, featuring darker tones and serviceable industrial materials, the firm stated.

“As the UAE real estate market is set to grow to $0.76 trillion by 2029, our new headquarters in the central business hub of the region demonstrates our commitment to leading and shaping this growth. This space, especially the mock-up room, offers a comprehensive experience for our potential buyers, giving them a true sense of life in the Iconic Tower. We are keen to continue our journey to bring the future of upscale living to life, blending cutting-edge design with world-class amenities,” said CEO Diana Nilipovscaia.

Over the past year, the developer is said to have secured approvals from key government authorities and broken ground for the Iconic Tower project. With design and contractor procurement nearing completion – and main construction slated to begin shortly – the project is set to become the tallest structure in Dubai Internet City, at 286.4m.

Iconic Tower will feature 310 luxury apartments and world-class amenities, with unit handovers expected by Q3 2027, the firm noted.

In addition, Mered has acquired a prime 11,890sqm waterfront plot on Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi, one of the top locations in the capital city for luxury apartments, the statement concluded.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

Facilities management (FM) company HITEK Services, which is part of the Farnek group of companies, has acquired multiple contracts in Saudi Arabia, it has announced. The firm’s agreements with organisations such as the Safari Group and Omni Facility Management are said to showcase HITEK’s commitment to support the Kingdom’s development goals in healthcare, education, and cultural preservation.

HITEK’s partnership with the Safari Group includes projects such as operations and maintenance (O&M) of the 176-bed Neuroscience and Trauma Care Center (NTCC) in Jeddah.

Javeria Aijaz, Managing Director of HITEK Services stated, “HITEK’s role is to ensure the smooth operation of this critical healthcare facility. Using our CAFMTEK solution, HITEK will help to digitalise work order, maintenance and asset management, by tailoring our system to meet KAPSH’s specific needs, affording seamless integration with existing processes and workflows.”

He added, “These contracts not only represent significant business growth but also underscore our dedication to supporting Saudi Arabia’s development goals in healthcare, education and cultural preservation. We are proud to partner with these leading organisations to create an effective and sustainable impact.”

HITEK said it has signed an independent three-year contract to leverage its solutions to enhance the operational efficiency and sustainability of organisations such as the Prince Mohammad bin Fahd University (PMU) a private non-profit university.

Sabith Sasikumar, Head of Facilities Management at Omni commented, “HITEK addresses FM challenges faced by many of our clients, by providing an integrated solution that connects, tracks and monitors building assets, providing real time data. This presents a holistic overview of all vital facility systems, which can reduce traditional manpower costs by up to 17% and enhance asset life cycles by digitalising FM service delivery”.

“By connecting a building’s assets and data points using flexible, scalable and analytical platforms, the SAAS-based solution can also be managed from one central point, utilising IoT, Building Management Systems (BMS), Cloud, Machine Learning (ML) and AI technologies,” he concluded.

HITEK has also been tasked with preserving the infrastructure of the Historical Diriyah, Riyadh (HDRI), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and to safeguard cultural heritage through meticulous and digitalised facility management. HITEK’s scope of work includes contract management, workflows, job plans, inventory management SLA and KPIs as well as dashboards and reports, the firm said.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

TECOM Group has completed the acquisition of new commercial and industrial assets as part of a plan which was announced in May 2024. In addition, the group plans to develop premium Grade-A office spaces at Dubai Internet City with the launch of Innovation Hub Phase 3, which will bring the firm’s investments in 2024 to more than US $544mn.

“The new strategic acquisitions and projects reflect TECOM Group’s vision of fostering sustainable growth. TECOM Group is committed to continuing its pivotal role in bolstering the UAE’s and Dubai’s knowledge-based economy and shaping the future of business through our world-class ecosystems that attract and empower globally renowned companies and talent across our 10 specialised business districts,” explained Abdulla Belhoul, Chief Executive Officer of TECOM Group PJSC.

He added, “Dubai is a globally renowned business and investment hub that offers attractive economic opportunities and robust business frameworks for local and international investors across myriad sectors. Underpinned by Dubai Economic Agenda ‘D33’, our business model is fostering an environment conducive to sustainable growth and excellence for the long term.”

The group said it has commenced the development of six Grade-A office buildings within Phase 2 of Dubai Design District (d3). The new development spans a gross floor area of 629,000sqft.

The development will feature office spaces with views of the Dubai skyline, including the Burj Khalifa. It is designed to meet the needs of TECOM Group’s existing and future clients, and will accommodate customer demand, including from global companies in the creative sectors. In addition to its sustainable buildings, the project will also include sports facilities, community spaces, parking, fine dining options, and surrounding residential developments. The vibrant hub will promote work-life balance within a dynamic community, the firm said.

Commenting on the launch, Belhoul noted, “Phase 2 of Dubai Design District (d3) is a landmark development that will significantly contribute to Dubai’s thriving design, fashion, and creative sectors. Spanning a GLA of more than 500,000sqft, this new office space will be built in line with LEED certification standards and is set for completion by H1 2028. It promises to deliver substantial long-term growth and further elevate our design sector’s infrastructure, enabling d3 to attract global talent and solidify Dubai’s position as a premier global centre for culture and creativity.”

TECOM Group also announced the launch of Grade-A offices at Dubai Internet City with its Innovation Hub Phase 3 development that will address the growing demand for commercial real estate in the city. Set for completion in mid-2027, Innovation Hub Phase 3 will offer premium office spaces and headquarters tailored to customer specifications across a GLA of more than 167,000sqft.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

3DXB Group has launched 3D-printed furniture that can be customised and produced quickly meaning that schools, hospitals, and residential communities can benefit from modern designs that enhance functionality while contributing to environmental sustainability, the firm said.

“3D printing allows us to create tailored outdoor furniture that meets the specific requirements of each space. Our products are customisable to meet the specific needs of different environments and contribute to Dubai’s broader sustainability goals by minimising waste and reducing carbon footprints,” said Badar Rashid AlBlooshi, Chairman of 3DXB Group.

AlBalooshi added, “3DXB Group provides tailored furniture options that enhance aesthetic appeal and meet the practical needs of Dubai’s evolving urban landscape.”

3DXB Group says that it supports the Dubai 2040 Plan’s goals of reducing automobile dependency and increasing walkability by ensuring that outdoor spaces are well-equipped with comfortable and attractive furniture that encourages outdoor activities. This is particularly important as Dubai plans to develop a connected and pedestrian network to promote walking and cycling, which are key components of the city’s mobility strategy.

The Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to increase the emirate’s population by 75% to 5.8m by 2040, emphasises the need for sustainable infrastructure and public amenities to support this growth. Part of this vision includes expanding public and green spaces, where innovative solutions like 3D-printed outdoor furniture can play a crucial role.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

VeriEstate has announced its plans to become a one-stop solution for all aspects of real estate, leveraging technology to enhance transparency and efficiency in the market.

The firm says it is positioning itself as the leading aggregator for real estate inspection services. In its initial phase, VeriEstate will bring together a wide array of inspection firms under one umbrella, providing prospective buyers and renters with comprehensive and transparent property assessments. The platform combines technologies like AI, blockchain, and data analytics to conduct in-depth non-invasive inspections, addressing a critical gap in the market by identifying hidden issues in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems.

Comprising a team of MEP engineers and inspection experts, VeriEstate’s reports – built on a 110-checkpoint inspection – carry official credentials, positioning them as a reliable resource for buyers, renters, brokers, property owners and holiday homes, the firm said in its statement.

“By uniting inspection services and property listings under one platform, we are not just simplifying the real estate process – we are setting a new benchmark for the industry. VeriEstate represents the future of real estate transactions, where every decision is informed, every action is secure, and every stakeholder is empowered,” said Rajab Ali Virani, CEO of VeriEstate.

VeriEstate said it has also launched a property search module. This feature sources lists from various real estate platforms, allowing users to find properties across Dubai in one place. With the help of API integration, real estate companies and brokers can seamlessly display their property images, the firm said.

The firm’s platform will serve both B2C and B2B customers, the company noted. For individual buyers, VeriEstate offers a unique service that allows them to access inspection options from anywhere in the world. Similar to hotel booking platforms, the solution provides customers with a choice of inspection companies, complete with price points per square foot and reviews, enabling them to make informed decisions based on their budget and needs, the firm explained.

The firm has already secured partnerships with leading inspection companies, including GTA Inspectors and The Snag Master, with more partnerships expected to be announced in the months to come. The company is also in discussions with major developers to establish exclusive partnerships to be their dedicated inspection arm, the statement said.

On the B2B side, VeriEstate acts as an aggregator for inspection companies, consultants, and MEP firms, streamlining operations and ensuring consistency in the quality of inspections. VeriEstate will also serve as an aggregator for real estate platforms, providing a comprehensive marketplace for the industry, it added.

“Partnering with VeriEstate aligns with our commitment to providing top-tier inspection services,” said Ehab Farid P, Eng. at GTA Inspectors. “Their innovative approach and use of advanced technology set a new standard in the industry.”

Umera Adhnan, Managing Partner at The Snag Master concluded, “We are excited to collaborate with VeriEstate and bring our expertise to a platform that prioritises transparency and quality in real estate.”

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Source: MEConstructionNews

The Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre (ADNEC), the custodian and regulator of Abu Dhabi’s real estate industry, has announced the launch of the first residential Rental Index for Abu Dhabi. Serving both tenants and landlords, the platform is designed to increase transparency, provide accurate rental values and support the stability of the capital’s growing rental market.

The platform offers easily accessible and reliable data on residential properties, which will help both local residents and those living abroad to better understand the rental market. It also includes ‘indicative’ quarterly rental pricing for properties located in areas throughout Abu Dhabi.

The Rental Index was created and researched in order to energise the rental market in Abu Dhabi and further contribute to the emirate’s competitive edge to attract premium international investors.

“We are committed to building a thriving real estate sector, positioning the emirate as a leading investment and real estate destination regionally and globally. Our mission is to ensure transparency in our practices, and we will continue to work alongside all stakeholders to build and maintain trust in the system,” said Rashed Al Omaira, Acting Director General at Abu Dhabi Real Estate Centre.

The platform aligns with ADNEC’s ongoing strategy to enhance customer satisfaction in Abu Dhabi’s real estate sector, and deliver high-value investors, property owners and tenants alike.

According to ADNEC, it is the first of several specialised indices, which together aim to fortify the broader strategy of positioning Abu Dhabi as a leading lifestyle and investment destination.

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Source: MEConstructionNews