Developer MERED has appointed Dar Al-Handasah Consultants (Shair and Partners) – Dar – as the lead design consultant for its waterfront development on Al Reem Island.

The project, which was designed by a architectural firm recognised with the Pritzker Prize and RIBA Royal Gold Medal, will feature high-end apartments, sky villas, and ocean villas, complemented by premium amenities and landscaped oasis gardens. It promises to bring a striking presence to Reem Island’s skyline while offering a vibrant coastal lifestyle for residents, said a statement from the developer.

According to MERED, Dar provides design, planning, engineering, sustainability consulting, project management, facilities management, and digital solutions across critical sectors including buildings, cities, transportation, civil infrastructure, water, and the environment. Dar is also the founder of Sidara, a global collaborative consistently ranked among the top 10 international design firms by Engineering News-Record for over 15 years. With a global portfolio of over 4,500 projects valued at more than $500 billion across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe, Dar brings unmatched expertise to the Al Reem Island project.

Michael Belton, CEO of MERED said, “Working with Dar will guarantee the project delivers on the promise of quality, integrity, and long-term value. Al Reem Island continues to be one of the region’s most dynamic growth areas, with off-plan property values rising 38% year-on-year in Q2 2025, and our focus is on creating a waterfront destination that will truly stand the test of time and contribute meaningfully to the community.”

Dar’s Sabah Haidar, Partner, Director of Operations for UAE commented, “MERED’s vision for this waterfront development is bold, and our role as lead design consultant is to ensure it is delivered to the highest standards of quality and architectural excellence. Through rigorous design oversight and close collaboration, we are committed to creating a project that enhances Reem Island’s identity and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s standing as a hub of world-class architecture.”

Ibrahim Salah, the Director of Dar’s Dubai Design Studio added, “We’re honored to be partnering with a developer as visionary as MERED to deliver a new landmark for Abu Dhabi. From sky and ocean villas to breathtaking gardens, excellence in architecture, design, and engineering will be the determining factor in delivering a new development that captures hearts and minds and sets the stage for a community that thrives.”

Phase 1 of the development is scheduled to be launched by the end of 2025. This project aims to reshape Al Reem Island’s waterfront, introducing architectural style that will elevate the city’s skyline and urban fabric. MERED’s primary objective is to create enduring value for both residents and investors. MERED seeks to further strengthen Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a premier waterfront destination, the developer noted.

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Developer TownX Real Estate Development has said that it has completed its Luma Park Views project nine months ahead of schedule. This marks a significant milestone in their mission to deliver developments in record time.

The developer said it will commence the handover of 600 residential units in Jumeirah Village Circle. The project boasts one, two, and three bedroom luxury apartments that offer views of the park.

Haider Abduljabbar, Executive Director of TownX said, “Completing Luma Park Views nine months ahead of schedule underscores our relentless drive for excellence and efficiency. We are dedicated to pushing boundaries and setting new standards in real estate, ensuring that every project we deliver creates lasting value for our residents and investors.”

Luma Park Views is said to offer a blend of technology, luxury amenities, and community-oriented design. Residents can enjoy two sky pools, two Technogym-equipped gyms, internal garden spanning 32,000sqft, and a suite of smart home systems. The development also features advanced security systems, including face recognition technology in the lifts, as well as smart door locks, EV charging points, and temperature-controlled pools.

Equipped with Siemens appliances and smart home systems, each apartment at Luma Park Views offers a modern living experience designed for comfort, convenience, and sustainability. The development’s energy-efficient design, combined with spacious interiors and premium finishes, makes it an ideal choice for families and professionals alike, the developer stated.

TownX said it has focused on delivering projects ahead of schedule with exceptional attention to detail. With over 967 units delivered and 1,774 apartments currently under development, the company continues to expand its footprint in Dubai’s real estate market. Key developments delivered by TownX include Easy18, Easy19, Luma21 and Luma22 in JVC, while ongoing projects include 11 Hills Park at Dubai Science Park and Ashley Hills in Arjan.

With a focus on family-oriented communities, TownX said that it designs spaces that cater to all generations, prioritising high end finishes, energy-efficient designs and spacious interiors. Above all, the company said that it is committed to enhancing the daily lives of its residents through exceptional user experiences.

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Law firm Gibson Dunn said it advised the Investment Corporation of Dubai and ALEC in connection with the initial public offering (IPO) and listing of ALEC on the Dubai Financial Market, which is said to be the UAE’s largest construction sector IPO ever by both valuation and size.

This is the second year running that Gibson Dunn was issuer’s counsel on the largest sector IPO in the UAE, following last year’s largest technology sector US $2bn talabat IPO.

The IPO, which raised $381mn, resulted in an implied market capitalisation of around $1.91bn. It also signifies the first construction sector IPO in the UAE in over 15 years.

ALEC, a diversified engineering and construction group, operates in the UAE and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The company builds and provides construction solutions that consistently set industry benchmarks for innovation, quality, reliability, and operational excellence.

The Gibson Dunn team, comprising partners Marwan Elaraby, Ibrahim Soumrany, and Jade Chu, along with associates Omar Morsy, Krishna Parikh, Rachel Treasure, Vlad Zinovyev, and Anthony Forde, provided legal support throughout the process.

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Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Fujairah Geographical Information Systems Centre. This agreement aims to foster innovation and digital transformation in geospatial systems and data management.

The signing ceremony took place during GITEX 2025 in Dubai, and was attended by Eng. Mohammed bin Hamad bin Saif Al Sharqi, Director General of Fujairah Digital Government.

The MoU focuses on enhancing institutional integration and facilitating data and expertise exchange in GIS. This collaboration will improve urban planning efficiency, infrastructure development, and support digital services across Fujairah. It also aims to strengthen electronic connectivity between the two entities to optimise technological resources for digital transformation.

This partnership empowers EtihadWE to enhance network management, streamline field operations, and expedite decision-making speed and accuracy in its projects. This agreement marks a significant milestone in promoting innovation within geospatial systems in Fujairah. It underscores both parties’ dedication to achieving digital transformation goals, while contributing positively to the region’s development.

Dr. Ahmed Hassan Al Murshidi, Director General of the Fujairah GIS Centre, emphasised, “This partnership is a strategic step towards developing Fujairah’s geospatial data infrastructure. It enables secure and systematic data sharing among entities, supporting sustainable development and improving quality of life across the emirate.”

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Developer AMIS Development has unveiled Derby Heights, a residential project nestled in District 11, Meydan, Dubai. This development, slated for handover in Q4 2027, was launched at the AMIS sales centre on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.

Derby Heights introduces a refined vision of elevated living through a spatial edit by Casamia — a design narrative that brings together curated materials, tactile finishes, and refined aesthetics across the project’s shared and social spaces. The development reflects a commitment to thoughtful materiality and spatial harmony, creating an environment where design enhances everyday living, said a statement.

The project is said to be a pioneer in the emerging trend of locally branded residences in Dubai. It sets a new standard for urban living, seamlessly combining luxury, design, and comfort in every corner of the development, the statement continued.

The development will offer a range of exclusive units, including one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, each designed to provide a modern living experience. Located just 15 minutes from Downtown Dubai, five minutes from the Meydan Racecourse, and 20 minutes from Dubai International Airport, Derby Heights provides the perfect blend of privacy and proximity to key lifestyle destinations in the city, the developer said.

The development will feature an array of amenities including a state-of-the-art gym, a rooftop infinity pool, an outdoor cinema, a grand reception area, and an outdoor kids play area – all designed to offer a refined living experience for individuals and families.

Neeraj Mishra, Founder and CEO of AMIS Development said, “We are thrilled to introduce Derby Heights to the market. This project reflects our commitment to creating spaces that redefine urban living. Through this development, we’re able to offer a unique concept with ‘a spatial edit by Casamia’, bringing a sophisticated touch to every shared space. We believe this development will set a new benchmark for luxury living in Dubai, providing a sanctuary that is both serene and conveniently located.”

Mohib Mithani, Co-Founder of Casamia said, “We’re proud to see Casamia’s material and design sensibility represented within Derby Heights. Through A Spatial Edit by Casamia, this project brings an exquisite material philosophy to life, where every detail contributes to an atmosphere of refined comfort.”

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Developer Arada has awarded a construction contract worth US $108.1mn to build the Rove Aljada hotel cluster within the Sharjah megaproject. The cluster comprises four blocks, featuring the Rove Aljada hotel and Rove Home Aljada branded residences. These buildings are located next to the upcoming commercial district, Arada CBD, and Madar Mall.

Modern Building Contracting Company (MBCC) has been awarded the contract and will commence construction immediately. The project is expected to be completed by December 2027. The Rove Aljada hotel will boast 192 hotel rooms, a rooftop swimming pool, co-working spaces, a 24-hour gym, and all-day dining restaurant, among other amenities.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada said, “We are absolutely committed to delivering world-class amenities to support the growth of this transformational new destination and this contract award is further evidence of that. With the introduction of Rove’s fresh and dynamic hospitality concept, we are responding to rising demand from both business and leisure travelers seeking smart, connected and design-led experiences in Sharjah.”

The Rove Aljada contract award is said to mark a milestone in the development of the master community. Construction is underway on Arada CBD, a 40-building commercial district, both the mall and the business park are conveniently located adjacent to Rove Aljada.

Rove Aljada will enhance the hospitality options available in the community. Nest Hotel, Arada’s innovative hospitality brand is expected to open before the end of this year, while the four-building Vida Aljada complex is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2026. Both Vida Aljada and the upcoming The Address Aljada will be owned by Arada and operated by the Emaar Hospitality Group.

Aljada, already home to 20,000 residents, boasts over 25,000 homes and extensive retail, entertainment, sports, education, wellness, hospitality, and commercial assets. With access to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Al Dhaid Road, Sharjah International Airport, and the upcoming Etihad Rail station, Aljada is transforming Sharjah’s urban landscape, the statement concluded.

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Majd Investment, Sumou Global Investment (SGI), and Strategic Housing Group (SHG) have launched the Dedicated Housing Company (DHC), a joint venture with an initial US $533mn fund which aims to pioneer co-living for professionals and students. Positioned to lead the sector, DHC will develop and operate Saudi Arabia’s next generation of purpose-built co-living communities. This partnership brings together three industry leaders in investment, real estate development, and operations, said a statement.

The DHC has introduced two new brands to the Kingdom: URBN Living and The Myriad. URBN Living is designed for working professionals, while The Myriad caters to students. URBN Living will address the growing demand for flexible, design-forward, and affordable co-living among young professionals. With a focus on lifestyle, networking, and convenience, these communities blend premium services and contemporary design to offer more than just accommodation, said a statement.

Focusing on students, The Myriad will incorporate the cultural values and traditions of the Gulf region, while delivering a lifestyle centered around students. It aims to offer quality residences, communal spaces, and a full calendar of social and eventful programming. Designed with fully equipped rooms and dedicated on-site support, The Myriad will create a safe and secure environment where students can live, learn, and thrive academically and socially, it added.

Together, these brands will shape the future of residential hospitality, backed by their international operational success. DHC’s rollout begins with over 5,000 beds, with plans to expand to 20,000 beds across the Kingdom by 2030.

“We are not just building homes, we are creating places where people truly belong,” said Vik Rao, Group CEO of SHG. “Our products are unique, as they blend hospitality with residential quality, affordability, along with smart design and vibrant community life, all tailored to today’s generation.”

“This partnership is a significant achievement for the Kingdom and a direct contribution to Vision 2030,” added Abdulrahman Bin Ayed Al-Qahtani, CEO of SGI. “Attracting an international co-living leader like SHG is proof of Saudi Arabia’s ability to bring world-class talent and expertise into the market. This collaboration supports our national goals of enhancing quality of life, diversifying the economy, and setting new benchmarks for how communities are built in the region.”

“From an investment perspective, this project reflects our confidence in the Saudi market and its long-term growth potential,” stated Mahmood Al-Kooheji, CEO of Majd Investment. “We are committed to projects that deliver economic impact and exceptional value to residents. This collaboration combines world-class expertise, sustainable design, and strong returns, a powerful formula for the future of housing in the Kingdom.”

DHC is said to be built on a strong partnership between development, operations, and investment. The joint venture brings together Sumou Global Investment (SGI) and Majd Investment’s local expertise and land access with Strategic Housing Group’s (SHG) experience in co-living and student housing. Together, these three partners form a unique platform, the firm explained.

SHG brings record as a specialised developer and operator of lifestyle-driven co-living and student housing communities. SGI and Majd contribute deep local development capabilities, prime land access, and the capacity to deliver at national scale. This combination creates a unique platform with the scale, speed, and expertise to lead Saudi Arabia’s co-living sector, the statement concluded.

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Khazna Data Centers (Khazna) has announced plans to expand its operational capacity by over 1GW over the next five years. This scale-up solidifies Khazna’s position as the UAE’s national digital infrastructure champion and marks a significant acceleration of its international expansion, the firm said.

More than 400MW of new capacity is to be delivered in international markets such as Saudi Arabia, Italy, and others, contributing to Khazna’s vision of establishing the infrastructure backbone for AI-driven digital economies.

“As the world enters an era defined by AI and digital economies, infrastructure is becoming the catalyst for national transformation. At Khazna, we are proud to be building the foundation layer for AI-native nations, combining regional leadership with global ambition,” said Hassan Alnaqbi, CEO of Khazna Data Centers. “Our expanded capacity roadmap reflects both the urgency and the opportunity ahead, as we partner with governments and enterprises to deliver resilient, sustainable infrastructure purpose-built for the next generation of compute.”

Khazna is laying the groundwork for AI-native nations, in this, digital transformation becomes an integral part of the design process. Khazna’s facilities are engineered for the next generation of compute, capable of supporting high-density, low-latency AI workloads at scale while adhering to sustainability standards, the statement explained.

The company is currently developing several new projects, including hyperscale facilities in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Ajman. In addition to these projects, Khazna is also delivering the infrastructure layer for Stargate UAE, a next-generation AI infrastructure cluster that will operate in the newly established 5GW UAE–U.S. AI Campus in Abu Dhabi.

Khazna’s capacity pipeline, both domestically and internationally, is said to be supported by a newly secured financing facility that will expedite deployment and enhance long-term resilience. By leveraging its proprietary, scalable design approach, Khazna can significantly reduce the time, cost, and environmental impact associated with traditional data center construction. This enables faster time-to-value without compromising operational excellence, the statement said.

Khazna’s expansion is also said to be underpinned by a commitment to sustainability at every stage of design, build, and operation. All new facilities are engineered to LEED Gold standards, utilising advanced cooling systems, high recycled material content, and energy-efficient design principles. The company’s modular construction methodology enables faster deployment with significantly reduced embodied carbon, construction waste, and potable water use accelerating both climate impact reduction and time to market.

In Italy, Khazna’s upcoming data centre campus will be powered by ‘Blue Power’, Eni’s low-carbon energy solution. This approach reflects Khazna’s broader strategy of aligning with local clean energy ecosystems, integrating alternative sources, where possible, to power the infrastructure of the AI economy responsibly, the firm noted.

The firm said it is also investing in the human capital required to operate the infrastructure of the future. Each new facility brings with it local job creation, from construction and engineering to long-term operational roles.

Each Khazna facility is said to generate more than US $320mn  in GDP contribution and enables over 1,150 jobs, with indirect benefits to suppliers, contractors, and service providers across the ecosystem. Khazna said it is committed to ensuring these opportunities build lasting economic value in the regions it serves.

To meet growing demand for specialised skills in digital infrastructure, Khazna is introducing programs designed to equip early-career professionals and re-skill workers with the technical, operational, and safety competencies needed in modern data centre environments. Through a combination of hands-on training, industry certifications, and global best practices, these initiatives will help develop a new generation of talent capable of supporting hyperscale infrastructure at scale.

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Al Ghurair has introduced the Al Ghurair Collection, which is billed as the super-prime residential portfolio of Al Ghurair Development, the freehold real estate division of the company.

Created to represent the pinnacle of Al Ghurair’s six-decade legacy, the Collection makes its debut with Wedyan, a waterfront residence taking shape along the Dubai Canal. Designed by architect Kengo Kuma, in his first project in the UAE, Wedyan is said to deliver on Al Ghurair Collection’s commitment to originality and craftsmanship to create something never seen before in Dubai, said a statement.

Al Ghurair Collection stands as the epitome of exclusivity, offering residences of exceptional character in prime locations. The company’s track record in shaping Dubai’s evolution is unparalleled. Al Ghurair has made significant contributions in various sectors, including banking, development, foods, and mobility, it added.

Sultan Al Ghurair, CEO of Al Ghurair Development said, “Al Ghurair Collection marks a new chapter for us. It is a natural evolution of our commitment to the progress of the city. As Dubai has grown into one of the world’s most dynamic and successful destinations, and is increasingly drawing sophisticated residents from all over the world, the time felt right to introduce what we feel is the ultimate expression of exceptional living to be found here. We created Al Ghurair Collection to develop buildings that don’t exist elsewhere. Our search for an architect that shares our commitment to originality and obsession with detail led us to Kengo Kuma, a visionary with a truly unique design perspective.”

John Iossifidis, Group CEO of Al Ghurair added, “The launch of Al Ghurair Collection represents a defining milestone for Dubai’s real estate sector and reflects Al Ghurair’s future-focused strategic vision. We enter this space with the strength of a legacy built over six decades, anchored in trust, innovation, and an uncompromising commitment to quality and excellence.”

“Al Ghurair Collection will bring a fresh perspective to the market, powered by the integrated capabilities of our diversified business. Our mission is clear: to create visionary projects, build with purpose, and deliver spaces that provide enduring value, financially, socially, and culturally, for generations to come,” he added.

Soaring 46 storeys high, Wedyan will feature 149 residences with a mix of three-, four-, and five-bedroom layouts, two full-floor penthouses and a three-storey sky villa. Some of the key features include generous outdoor living spaces purposefully designed to be multi-functional, for maximum comfort and liveability; additional back-of-house kitchen with separate access alongside the main kitchen, perfect for hosting catered dinner parties; and specialised glazing that protects owners’ artworks from UV rays. A selection of residences also come with standalone Japanese teahouse-inspired pavilions; easily adapted to suit residents’ needs, they could make the perfect setting for morning meditations or serve as a one-of-a-kind recording studio, the statement outlined.

Designed by Kengo Kuma and with its name meaning ‘valleys’, Wedyan is envisioned as a future landmark, marking his first project in the UAE. Kuma San, celebrated for cultural works such as the Japan National Stadium in Tokyo and the China Academy of Art’s Folk Art Museum, is recognised globally for an approach that harmonises architecture with nature. At Wedyan, he has applied this approach by shaping a façade inspired by the movement of water and sand. Its layered profile and textured exterior, echoes the rhythm of the desert and valleys, creating a building without precedent in the city, it explained.

Kengo Kuma remarked, “Wedyan is a dialogue between Japanese aesthetics and the context of Dubai. Our design philosophy is to connect and create a conversation between architecture, nature and people. In this project, our purpose is to bring softness to the design and to create quietness through shadows that cascade and reflect across the façade, terraces and amenity spaces. Collaborating with Al Ghurair has been exciting. They understand the value of design, and we share a mutual respect that naturally led to a positive harmony in bringing Wedyan to life.”

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Source: MEConstructionNews