The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has now introduced five new maritime shipping services as part of efforts to strengthen supply chain resilience amid ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

The initiative, led by Mawani, aims to ensure the smooth movement of goods and maintain stable cargo flows despite regional uncertainties that could disrupt key global shipping routes.

The new services have been launched in collaboration with major international shipping companies, including MSC, CMA CGM, Maersk, and Hapag-Lloyd. The partnerships highlight the operational strength and adaptability of Saudi ports in responding to evolving maritime challenges.

Named GULF SHUTTLE, REDEX, JADE, AE19, and SE4, the services span multiple routes linking Saudi ports to key regional and international destinations. This expanded network is expected to improve connectivity and enhance overall logistics performance.

Mawani said the step reflects proactive efforts to boost the readiness of the maritime sector, ensure uninterrupted supply chains, and reinforce Saudi Arabia’s growing role as a global logistics hub.

Together, the new routes offer a combined capacity of approximately 63,594 20ft equivalent units (TEUs), providing increased flexibility for exporters and importers while supporting more efficient trade flows. The move is also designed to reduce the impact of disruptions affecting critical maritime corridors, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, while strengthening connections through the Red Sea and beyond.

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Sobha Realty has announced that Sobha Crest Grande has received its Building Completion Certificate (BCC), with customer handovers scheduled to commence shortly.

Located in the waterfront district of Sobha Hartland, Crest Grande, comprises of 985 units and offers proximity to key Dubai landmarks, including the Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, and Dubai International Airport.

The development features waterfront views, fully fitted kitchens, covered car parking, and amenities including an indoor and outdoor gymnasium, sauna room, adult and kids’ swimming pool, kids’ playing area, barbecue zone, as well as retail and restaurant offerings, the developer said.

The project is scheduled for delivery with the timeline committed to RERA, underlining Sobha Realty’s focus on execution discipline and delivery certainty, it added.

Francis Alfred, MD, Sobha Realty said, “At a time when people value certainty and reassurance more than ever, milestones like the Building Completion Certificate carry even greater meaning. Dubai continues to demonstrate the resilience, confidence, and long-term vision that makes it one of the world’s most trusted places to live and invest.”

He added, “For us, the receipt of the Building Completion Certificate for Sobha Crest Grande is not just a development milestone; it is a reflection of the trust families place in us when they invest their savings, aspirations, and vision of a dream home in the UAE. Achieving and being able to deliver within the timeline committed to RERA reaffirms our commitment to honour that trust through disciplined execution, timely delivery, and the consistent quality we promise every customer.”

Sobha Crest Grande has been designed to offer waterfront living within one of Dubai’s most sought-after residential destinations. Its location within Sobha Hartland places residents within minutes of central Dubai, while offering a more serene lifestyle setting shaped by open views, green surroundings, and curated amenities.

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Sidara has completed the acquisition of Wood, a consulting, engineering and operations firm for energy and materials, the company has announced.

The transaction marks a milestone for Sidara and advances its long-term strategic ambition to expand and elevate its energy offering to clients worldwide. Going forward, Wood will retain its own brand and continue operating as a standalone business, while benefiting from Sidara’s global scale and long-term owner-operator mindset.

With Wood’s complementary capabilities and technical expertise — including in digital and decarbonisation technologies — Sidara is positioned at the forefront of the global energy sector. Together, the group will deliver the energy security solutions communities need today, while accelerating the transition to clean energy and decarbonised infrastructure, the firm added.

Sidara continues to operate through a five-pillar model, comprising: Dar (multidisciplinary); Wood (energy and materials); Perkins & Will (design and architecture); TYLin (infrastructure), and Currie & Brown (project management and consultancy).

This model enables Sidara to serve clients worldwide, on some of their most complex and critical projects. It also empowers Sidara companies to deliver value across the full lifecycle of strategic projects, from planning and design through to project management, handover and facilities management, the company said.

With Wood joining the group, Sidara’s global collaborative now brings together more than 55,000 professionals.

The combined group generates over $8.5bn in revenue across all geographies, with approximately 40% in North America and 20% in each of Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and Asia Pacific.

Talal Shair, Chairman and CEO of Sidara said, “Acquiring Wood is without a doubt the most ambitious venture in the history of Sidara, driving forward a long-term critical strategy of expanding and elevating our energy offering. Together with Wood, our people will be empowered to have far greater impact in two of the defining sectors of our time: energy and materials.”

He added, “This partnership comes at a historic moment. Accelerating the energy transition and establishing a sustainable supply of the raw materials that will shape our future has never been more critical than it is today. By providing a solid foundation and long-term strategic backing for Wood, Sidara will be uniquely positioned to deliver innovative, industry-leading solutions for clients in these critical sectors and beyond.”

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National Properties has announced the launch of a new 26-storey Grade A commercial tower in Barsha Heights, with a development value of US $136mn, further expanding Dubai’s premium office offering with an additional 225,000sqft of leasable area, as demand for workspace continues to rise across the emirate.

Dubai’s office market is witnessing sustained demand for modern, high-specification workspaces, driven by strong economic growth, increasing international company relocations, and the continued expansion of sectors such as technology, media, and professional services, said the company in a statement.

The tower, designed by NORR Architects & Engineers, will offer contemporary office environments featuring efficient floorplates, advanced building systems, and a range of amenities that support flexible and collaborative working.

Podium-level indoor retail and cafe outlets with outdoor seating will activate the street-level environment, while wellness facilities including a fully equipped gym will enhance the overall workplace experience for professionals working within the building, it stated.

Located in Barsha Heights, the tower benefits from immediate connectivity to Sheikh Zayed Road and proximity to major commercial hubs including Dubai Internet City and Dubai Media City, providing convenient access across Dubai’s business ecosystem, it continued.

The building will also incorporate modern building technologies and energy-efficient systems designed to enhance operational performance and support sustainable workplace environments.

Construction is expected to commence in early second quarter of 2026, with completion anticipated in Q4 2028.

Mohammed Qasim Al Ali, Group CEO of National Bonds said, “Dubai continues to attract international businesses and entrepreneurs seeking a dynamic base for regional operations. With demand for high-quality office environments growing across key business districts, this project reflects our commitment to delivering premium commercial assets that support productivity, collaboration, and long-term value creation for businesses and investors alike.”

He added, “Barsha Heights has evolved into a vibrant commercial hub, and this development will further strengthen the district’s offering by introducing a modern workspace environment designed to meet the expectations of today’s companies.”

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Developer Azizi Developments has announced the launch of Creek Views IV, the newest addition to its Creek Views collection in Al Jaddaf. The new tower will offer premium 1-bedroom apartments and an exclusive penthouse, surrounded by uninterrupted views of the Dubai Creek and the city’s skyline, the developer confirmed.

The launch of Creek Views IV is said to follow the successful trajectory of its predecessors in the series. Creek Views I and Creek Views II have already been handed over to residents, while Creek Views III recently reached the 50% construction milestone and is on track for delivery in Q2, the developer explained.

“Creek Views IV represents the evolution of our vision for this community. This project brings together al fresco living and urban luxury in a way that is truly distinctive, complemented by three breathtaking rooftop infinity pools with panoramic vistas,” said Group CEO Farhad Azizi.

He continued, “For investors and families alike, Creek Views IV offers an exceptional opportunity at one of Dubai’s most exclusive and well-connected addresses.”

Creek Views IV is being offered as freehold property, presenting an attractive proposition for both local and international investors seeking a premium asset in a high-growth area of the city. Designed as a sleek monolithic tower, Creek Views IV features an innovative architectural concept that provides wraparound views across the community.

Residents will enjoy an impressive suite of amenities, including 3 panoramic rooftop infinity pools, a private cinema, a state-of-the-art gym, sauna and steam room, indoor and outdoor children’s play areas, a multipurpose hall, dedicated parking, and round-the-clock security, the statement noted.

The launch of the fourth tower is said to affirm Azizi’s continued confidence in the Al Jaddaf area and its commitment to developing premium residential offerings in one of Dubai’s most strategically connected neighbourhoods.

Strategically positioned near Dubai Creek, where the heritage of old Dubai meets contemporary architecture, the development is just minutes from Downtown Dubai, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Mall. It benefits from direct proximity to Al Jaddaf Metro station, exceptional connectivity to Al Khail Road and Sheikh Zayed Road, and is also earmarked as a future location for the high-speed rail link to Abu Dhabi. Dubai International Airport is a mere 10-minute drive away, the statement concluded.

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Miral has announced that its latest expansion of Yas Waterworld, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi will open to guests on 4 April. The expansion marks the next stage of the waterpark’s Lost City theming, building on Yas Waterworld’s story of The Legend of The Lost Pearl.

The development will introduce 8 new slides, 2 jumping platforms and a lounging pool. These standout additions will  enhance the waterpark’s portfolio and will bring the total number of in-park experiences to more than 70.

Jonathan Brown, Chief Portfolio Officer at Miral said, “The expansion of Yas Waterworld marks an important milestone in our commitment to delivering world-class entertainment experiences on Yas Island. With 11 new slides and attractions, we are enhancing the park’s offering with fresh thrills and immersive adventures for guests of all ages.”

Among the highlights of these new slides is Matamir’s Drop, the UAE’s tallest waterslide offering a plunge from over 40m, as guests experience freefall, and a 233m slide run. Visitors can also experience Sahel Matamir, a freefall tube racer that launches riders through bursts of speed and zero-gravity moments.

Visitors can take on Matamir Loop, a high-speed body slide built for rapid descents, while Matamir Twist – Matamir Lights delivers a ride combining fast drops with immersive lighting effects. For guests who enjoy a little friendly competition, Matamir Splash offers a duelling mat racer where riders can race side-by-side to the finish.

In addition to the slides, the new attractions introduce more ways for guests to cool off and unwind. Sarab, a spacious leisure pool area, offers a relaxing, family-friendly environment, while Al Afda invites visitors to take the leap from a jump platform into the waters below.

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A fire at a fuel depot at Kuwait International Airport has been reported by Kuwait’s General Civil Aviation Authority. The fire broke out early in the morning on 25 March and was caused following an attack by Iranian drones, the aviation authority confirmed.

Kuwaiti authorities said that emergency procedures began immediately, with fire-fighting teams and other relevant agencies responding to contain the blaze.

The official spokesperson Abdullah Al Rajhi told the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that initial reports indicate the damage is limited to material losses, with no casualties reported.

Efforts are under way to secure the site and assess the full extent of the damage, the aviation authority noted.

The airport was previously attacked by Iranian drones on 12 and 14 March, which caused damage to other facilities, including a radar installation. No casualties were reported due to the attacks.

In 2025, the airport was said to be the 12^th busiest airport in the Middle East, and normally serves as the primary hub for Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways.

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Dubai Municipality has announced the deployment of a technology-driven beach safety system that combines aquatic rescue robotics with aerial water-rescue drones.

The initiative reflects a shift towards proactive, AI-enabled safety solutions that enhance protection, response speed, and overall beach experience for residents and visitors throughout the year.

At the centre of this system is the aquatic rescue robot. The remote-controlled, self-propelled rescue device operates at speeds up to 5 times faster than traditional lifeguard swimming rescues, with a range of up to 1km within line of sight and a towing capacity of up to 500kg  The robot allows lifeguards to reach swimmers in distress rapidly, while minimising physical risk during the initial rescue phase.

Complementing the system, Dubai Public Beaches has introduced the water rescue drone as an aerial support tool that enhances situational awareness and rescue coordination. Often described as a ‘flying lifebuoy’, the drone can deploy quickly over water, land directly on the sea surface, and provide immediate buoyancy support to individuals in distress.

Equipped with a live-feed camera, the drone delivers real-time visuals to lifeguard teams, enabling faster incident detection, accurate risk assessment, and more effective coordination of rescue operations.

Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality said, “Dubai Municipality continues to advance a proactive, technology-led approach to public safety. The integration of the aquatic rescue robot with the water rescue drone represents a significant step forward in how coastal safety is delivered, combining speed, intelligence, and operational precision. These solutions enhance protection for beach users, while reducing risk to lifeguards, and reflect Dubai’s commitment to applying innovation and artificial intelligence in service of quality of life.”

He added, “Our objective is to ensure that Dubai’s beaches set global benchmarks for safety, readiness, and visitor confidence. By investing in smart rescue technologies and continuously upgrading our safety ecosystem, Dubai Municipality is reinforcing its role in shaping future-ready public spaces that place people, wellbeing, and experience at the centre.”

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Developer Diriyah Company has achieved a significant construction milestone, the company said it completed pouring 7,193cu/m of concrete in a record 15.5 hours for the Gyratory Tunnel Extension in the second phase of the Diriyah development masterplan.

The DG II Gyratory Tunnel Extension Project is located to the west of the capital city, Riyadh, and is 25km away from King Khalid International Airport. It is a 700m long extension to the original road tunnel, which is part of the gyratory system beneath the Diriyah Square development.

This key achievement has set a new concrete pouring record, according to the statement. The project is being implemented by the Diriyah Gate Development Authority.

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