16 winners were recognised at the third edition of the Digital Construction Awards (DC Awards), the Big Project Middle East (BPME) team has revealed. The 2025 edition of the annual construction technology and innovation focused awards event took place at the Ritz Carlton, JBR, Dubai on 24 June.

A little over 100 nominations were received across the event’s various categories when nominations closed in late May. The editorial team confirmed a number of high quality nominations were submitted across several categories, prompting the team to split certain categories in an effort to compare nominations fairly.

The judging process was split into two parts – the first saw the BPME team vetting all the nominations to ensure that they met nomination guidelines and standards, and that they were appropriate for the focus of the awards. The second part of the judging process involved a panel of industry experts, who deliberated over the nominations that made it through to the second round.

The judges for the 2025 DC Awards were:

• Ankita Rao, Co-Managing Director and Lead Architect, Freeline Engineering Consultants
• Karie Akeelah, Partner, Trowers & Hamlins
• Nicky Dobreanu, Operations Director, Omnium International
• Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content, Big Project Middle East

The Digital Construction Awards were supported by:

Silver Sponsor: AECOM
Supporting Partners: Polypipe and RIB

The shortlist and winners for the 2025 DC Awards are as follows:

Young Technology Champion of the Year

• Ahmad Sharjeel – Al Khoory Solutions
• Megan Hughes – XD House

Winner:  Ahmad Sharjeel – Al Khoory Solutions

Digital Visionary of the Year – Software & Certification

• Ron Nussbaum – BuilderComs
• Bilal Dridi – Bureau Veritas Middle East
• Senthil M. Kumar – Slate Technologies

Winner:  Senthil M. Kumar – Slate Technologies

Digital Visionary of the Year – Consultant

• Hichem Troudi – KEO International Consultants
• Marwan AbuEbeid – Turner International
• Mohannad Salam – AtkinsRealis

Winner:  Hichem Troudi – KEO International Consultants

Digital Visionary of the Year – Contractor

• Youssry Salman – Saudi Binladin Group – Contracting
• Roger Wahl – Innovo Group

Winner: Youssry Salman – Saudi Binladin Group – Contracting

Digital Team of the Year – Consultant

• AECOM
• DEWAN Architects + Engineers
• KEO International Consultants

Winner:  KEO International Consultants

Digital Team of the Year – Contractor

• ALEC
• Saudi Binladin Group – Contracting

Winner: ALEC

Digital Construction Project of the Year – Building

• The Municipality and Islamic Affairs Building – KEO International Consultants
• teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi – Miral & ALEC
• Shebara Resort – Red Sea Global

Winner: teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi – Miral & ALEC

Digital Construction Project of the Year – Infrastructure

• Dual-Model AI Optimisation for RO Desalination Infrastructure – ACCIONA
• Al Laim Project – AECOM

Winner: Al Laim Project – AECOM

Technology SME of the Year

Winner: Accienta

Data Champion of the Year

Winner: Saudi Binladin Group – Contracting

Excellence in Collaboration & Productivity of the Year

• Graphite
• Saudi Binladin Group – Contracting
• XD House

Winner: XD House

Net Zero Technology Champion of the Year

Winner: Innovo Group

Digital Construction Innovator of the Year – Consultant

• DEWAN Architects + Engineers
• KEO International Consultants
• XD House

Winner: KEO International Consultants

Digital Construction Innovator of the Year – Contractor

• ACCIONA
• Innovo Group
• Saudi Binladin Group – Contracting

Winner: ACCIONA

Digital Consultant of the Year

• AECOM
• CSQ
• KEO International Consultants
• Parsons

Winner: AECOM

Digital Contractor of the Year

• Al Khoory Solutions
• ALEC
• DuPod
• Saudi Binladin Group – Contracting

Winner: ALEC

To learn more about the 2025 Digital Construction Awards, click here.

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EMSTEEL said it has received a provisional ESG rating of ‘AA’ from MSCI, said to be one of the highest among steel players globally. This recognition underscores EMSTEEL’s performance in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues, making it one of the few global steel and building materials manufacturers that excel in this regard, the firm said.

MSCI’s evaluation reinforces EMSTEEL’s position as the industry player in managing key ESG risks and opportunities. The evaluation particularly highlights the group’s innovative responsible practices in managing its environmental impact, which have led to significant reductions in carbon emissions. Additionally, EMSTEEL’s well-being, health, and safety practices for its workforce have been enhanced, with almost all categories surpassing the global average, said a statement.

MSCI ESG Ratings evaluates over 9,000 companies worldwide, assessing their exposure to industry-related material ESG risks and their management compared to their peers. The ratings range from leader (AAA, AA) to laggard (B, CCC), with the average rating being A, BBB, or BB. The score is said to reaffirm MSCI’s global leadership in ESG ratings.

Saeed Ghumran Al Remeithi, Group CEO of EMSTEEL said, “Our inaugural ‘AA’ ESG rating by MSCI is a powerful testament to EMSTEEL’s commitment to sustainable industrial leadership. It reflects the strength of our governance, the resilience of our people, and our deep-rooted responsibility to the environment and communities we serve. As we align with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 vision, this recognition strengthens our resolve to lead by example, delivering lasting value to our shareholders, society, and future generations.”

The rating is a significant milestone and follows the announcement of EMSTEEL’s Green Finance Framework in May 2025. The development of this framework was supported by key partners, including ING as the lead sustainability structuring bank and First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB) as the sustainability structuring bank. ING also served as the ESG Rating Advisor for the MSCI ESG rating. The framework is said to be a cornerstone of EMSTEEL’s broader ESG strategy.

EMSTEEL’s decarbonisation strategy is said to be driving industrial sustainability. The group aims to reduce emissions by 40% in its Steel Business Unit and 30% in its Cement Business Unit by 2030, using 2019 as the baseline year. This commitment is unwavering, and EMSTEEL is firmly committed to achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050. Key initiatives include enhancing energy efficiency, integrating renewable energy, and advancing green hydrogen innovation. These initiatives are all in alignment with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 agenda, the firm said.

In 2023, EMSTEEL reported total Scope 1 and 2 emissions of 4.5m tonnes of CO₂, representing a 23% reduction from the 2019 baseline. This achievement earned the group global recognition for its sustainability leadership. EMSTEEL’s efforts in decarbonising steel production were recognised by the World Steel Association, which named them the 2024 Steel Sustainability Champion. The World Economic Forum also recognised EMSTEEL’s contributions to decarbonising the iron and steel industry, placing them among the top five steel companies worldwide that have received this recognition. In September 2024, EMSTEEL was appointed as Co-Chair of the Alliance for Industry Decarbonization (AFID), led by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the statement concluded.

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Property Finder has announced the appointment of Owen Wilson, the CEO of REA Group, to its Board of Directors. With over a decade of executive and operational experience, including a tenure of over 10 years at REA Group, Wilson progressed from Chief Financial Officer to Chief Executive Officer. Wilson will be retiring from his position as CEO in the second half of 2025.

Michael Lahyani, Founder and CEO of Property Finder said, “Owen brings deep industry expertise to our Board. His leadership at REA Group, shaping digital transformation, driving strategic M&A, and championing customer-first innovation sets a strong benchmark for the industry. As we continue our mission to change living for good in the region, Owen’s insight will be instrumental in helping us deliver on our purpose and strengthen our position as the regional leader.”

Owen Wilson, Board Member, Property Finder added, “I’m deeply passionate about creating personalised experiences that redefine how people engage with property. I’ve long admired Property Finder’s bold vision and the transformative role it plays in reshaping real estate across the MENA region. Under Michael’s leadership, the team’s relentless focus on innovation, customer experience, and data-driven decision-making closely aligns with the values I’ve championed throughout my career. I’m excited to support Michael and the Board as the company embarks on its next chapter of growth and continues to shape the future of property search.”

During his tenure, he led the business which operates realestate.com.au, an Australian property platform, through a period of sustained growth and international expansion. Under his leadership, REA became widely regarded as the most advanced digital real estate company globally. Listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) with a market capitalisation of US $20bn, REA Group, a former shareholder in Property Finder, is now majority-owned by News Corp, the global media company founded by Rupert Murdoch.

Wilson’s appointment to the Property Finder Board signifies the company’s commitment to accelerating innovation, enhancing governance, and providing even greater value to home seekers, buyers, and partners across the MENA region, the statement concluded.

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One Group has officially entered the UAE market with the launch of ELEVATE, a company dedicated to lifestyle centric real estate development with the philosophy of luxury living. According to a statement, ELEVATE’s journey in the UAE will commence with the launch of a flagship beachfront development. The project is expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks and is poised to redefine the standards of luxury living in the region.

Each ELEVATE destination will be strategically located, attracting a community of individuals who value refinement, authenticity, and meaningful experiences. The brand is already in advanced discussions with hospitality and lifestyle names to co-create branded residences an increasing segment that merges luxury living with elevated service and investment value, a statement explained.

Commenting on the launch, Zeeshaan Shah, Chairman of One Group said, “I’m thrilled to officially begin our development journey in the UAE. I started my career in this extraordinary country 18 years ago, and witnessing its incredible transformation has been deeply inspiring. Today, the UAE stands as a global benchmark for lifestyle, ambition, and opportunity, a true reflection of the vision and dedication of its great leadership. In every market we enter, we forge our own path—not by following trends, but by introducing a distinct, lifestyle-led approach to design and development. At its core, great real estate isn’t just about space it’s about creating a way of life. Our focus is on crafting environments that elevate everyday living by integrating community,connection, wellness, and meaningful experiences.”

ELEVATE residences will offer hotel-grade amenities while providing the privacy and exclusivity of home. This unique positioning appeals to both end users and investors seeking long-term appreciation and potential in the region’s booming real estate market, the statement explained.

With a 15 year presence spanning across three continents, One Group has facilitated approximately US $2.5bn in global real estate transactions. Its portfolio is said to boast over 3,000 completed and ongoing units. ELEVATE is expected to have a development pipeline exceeding $1bn to roll out over the next 12 months. The firm says it will offer a holistic lifestyle centered around design, intentional living, and emotional well being, with the developments designed to promote balance and vitality, enabling residents to experience each day with purpose.

The upcoming launch will mark the first step in ELEVATE’s journey to redefine luxury living in the UAE and beyond, the firm noted.

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Saudi Arabia’s PIF has announced the creation of the Expo 2030 Riyadh Company (ERC) to oversee the construction and management of the facilities for Expo 2030 Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s inaugural World Expo. The company will also be responsible for ensuring the preservation of the event’s legacy.

The masterplan for Expo 2030 Riyadh encompasses an area of six million sqm, positioning it as one of the largest World Expo sites. The Expo will be situated to the north of the city, in proximity to the King Salman International Airport, and will provide direct access to the Saudi capital’s landmarks.

Expo 2030 Riyadh is anticipated to attract over 40m visitors. Following the conclusion of the event, ERC will embark on a transformative journey to convert the Expo’s gated area into a global village, serving as a multicultural hub for retail, gastronomy, and beverages. The development will encompass an international residential community with amenities, establishing new standards in sustainable tourism, said a statement.

PIF said that it remains steadfast in its strategic objective of achieving economic impact for Saudi Arabia, while securing sustainable returns. As one of the investors, PIF has accelerated Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification, facilitating the emergence of pivotal sectors and opportunities that contribute to the global economy. Notably, PIF leads the development of transformative giga-projects and landmark real estate initiatives throughout Saudi Arabia.

Saad Alkroud, Head of the Local Real Estate Investment Division at PIF said, “ERC benefits from PIF’s diverse local and global ecosystem and the establishment of the company aligns with PIF’s local real estate strategy, which drives economic transformation and diversification, advancing urban innovation and enhancing quality of life, driven by the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030.”

ERC said that it is promptly initiating operations to fulfill its mandate. It will collaborate with local and global private sector entities to attain its objectives in the areas of construction, cultural programming, and event management, the statement concluded.

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Omnix International has announced the expansion of its portfolio with a new suite of integrated Digitised Construction Workflow offerings. These solutions are designed to revolutionise critical workflows across the construction lifecycle by digitising them. This transformation is achieved through data intelligence, automation, and intelligent systems, ultimately leading to more efficient planning, execution, and optimisation of projects, the firm said.

The strategic move to expand its portfolio in the Middle East is said to underscore its commitment to driving innovation, enhancing efficiency, and assisting clients in meeting the evolving demands of the construction industry. The Middle East is experiencing rapid urban expansion and executing significant mega projects, making the need for advanced digital solutions more pressing than ever, said a statement.

The construction sector is currently facing numerous challenges, including labor shortages, cost pressures, regulatory demands, and outdated processes. Amidst these challenges, the Middle East, with its rapid urban expansion and mega projects, has highlighted the urgent need for advanced digital solutions, it added.

According to RICS and McKinsey, the global construction industry continues to lag in digital adoption, particularly in areas such as ESG reporting, carbon tracking, and lifecycle management. Omnix’s new offerings address these gaps by providing integrated tools that promote smarter planning, improved collaboration, and measurable outcomes.

Walid Gomaa, CEO of Omnix International said, “Our mission to digitally transform construction workflows is aimed at empowering clients to build with greater confidence, efficiency, and purpose. This marks a key milestone in our journey to deliver value-driven, future-ready solutions. Our focus on regional priorities, data interoperability, and intelligent insights will help clients reduce risk, enhance sustainability, and achieve stronger business outcomes across project lifecycles.”

Alaf Abdul Latheef, Regional Business Unit Head added, “Our offerings are built to address regional challenges with a flexible and modular framework. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies and architectural expertise, we have designed a solution that adapts to our clients’ realities enhancing compliance, visibility, and collaboration without requiring a complete overhaul of existing systems.”

The newly launched Digitised Construction Workflows offer centralised tendering and bid management, real time cost control and scheduling dashboards, Digital twin integration, field safety and compliance monitoring, built-in ESG and carbon analytics, AI-enhanced document and RFI management, and mobile-enabled tools for site access and task tracking, the company outlined.

At the heart of the solution lies Omnix’s ‘interoperability first approach’. This approach is said to feature a connected layer that allows clients to retain their preferred tools while enhancing visibility, regional customisation, and cross-platform data flow. Omnix’s approach prioritises plug-and-play compatibility with existing software, custom integrations that bridge data between design, construction, and operations phases, and strengthened with AI enabled data insights.

Early implementations are already underway, with broader rollouts scheduled for 2025 and 2026. This phased approach enables Omnix to refine its solutions based on real-world feedback and ensure alignment with regional workflows and compliance standards, the company confirmed.

Omnix’s strength in the construction sector is rooted in a multidisciplinary team with expertise in BIM, project management, AI, digital twin technologies, and secure cloud infrastructure. With certified professionals in PMP, LEED, and advanced analytics, Omnix is poised to deliver scalable, future-proof solutions for the region’s expanding development landscape, the statement concluded.

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Fujairah Terminals, a subsidiary of AD Ports Group, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Fujairah Free Zone Authority (FFZA). This collaborative partnership aims to enhance Fujairah’s standing as a pivotal hub in the global maritime industry. By combining the unique strengths of Fujairah Terminals and the FFZA, the MoU seeks to attract further investment, streamline operations, and foster sustainable growth within Fujairah’s maritime ecosystem.

Furthermore, the MoU aims to explore collaboration that would encompass the exchange of statistical data, business forecasts, and other information regarding container movement by road and sea, as well as joint participation in events and roadshows, a statement outlined.

Captain Mohamed Al Yahyaei, CEO of Fujairah Terminals said, “Fujairah Terminals is strategically located to serve as the premier gateway to the Indian Subcontinent, African trade lanes, and global markets. This MoU paves the way to further collaboration with the Fujairah Free Zone Authority, that will unlock new growth opportunities, enhance service offerings, and deliver greater value to our customers and stakeholders, solidifying Fujairah’s position as a leading maritime hub.”

Mohamed Sharief Habib Al Awadhi, Director General Fujairah Free Zone Authority added, “The Fujairah Free Zone Authority plays a crucial role in attracting foreign investment and fostering a vibrant business community. This MoU with Fujairah Terminals, part of AD Ports Group, creates a powerful synergy, enabling us to offer a compelling value proposition to maritime businesses. Together, we can enhance competitiveness, drive economic diversification, and strengthen Fujairah’s global maritime standing.”

Fujairah Terminals, located on the UAE’s eastern coast, serves as a premier gateway for trade with the Indian Subcontinent, African trade lanes, and global markets. Established in 2017, this multi-purpose terminal boasts a quay wall extending to 1000m and a depth of 15m, enabling it to handle larger vessels, the statement noted.

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Meraas has awarded a construction contract worth US $122.5mn to Naresco Contracting for the primary construction work of its Central Park Plaza residential development. This latest addition to City Walk is anticipated to be completed in Q3 2027, the developer said.

Nestled in green landscapes, the project features two towers, each designed to elevate luxurious urban living within a park-like lifestyle community. Tower A stands at 23 floors, while Tower B boasts 20 floors. Together, they offer a total of 212 crafted one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments. Additionally, four-bedroom townhouses and exclusive penthouses cater to diverse upscale lifestyles, the statement from the developer highlighted.

Central Park Plaza, the final addition to Central Park at City Walk, represents the pinnacle of apartment offerings. It provides an opportunity to reconnect with nature while enjoying an unparalleled array of active lifestyle facilities, all conveniently located within easy reach. Central Park Plaza at City Walk merges the vibrant energy of city living with the tranquility of nature, providing residents with an opportunity to experience both. Situated amidst the backdrop of the Dubai skyline, this development harmonises a fast-paced inner-city lifestyle with natural serenity, it added.

Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate said, “Central Park Plaza at City Walk is poised to provide a new level of urban community lifestyle right in the heart of Dubai, embodying our commitment to develop refined destinations that prioritise community living and well-being. We are delighted to partner with Naresco Contracting on this project and have confidence in their ability to deliver an exceptional residential development that aligns with our vision of creating unparalleled living experiences in Dubai.”

Omar Abdulla Al Arif, General Manager of Naresco Contracting added, “We are excited to be part of City Walk’s expansion, which aims to solidify the destination’s status as the city’s most distinguished address for urban living within nature. This partnership with Dubai Holding Real Estate is a significant milestone for us as it marks our first collaboration with one of the largest integrated master developers in Dubai. This proud moment reflects our decades of growth, and we look forward to a long-term partnership to continue contributing to Dubai’s prominence on the global stage.”

Residents can enjoy a wide range of amenities right at their doorstep, enabling them to engage in an active lifestyle. These amenities include swimming pools and water play areas, a dedicated children’s play area, a running track, a dog park, multi-purpose games and sports lawns, tennis and squash courts, a half-court basketball court, a skate-able landscape, games tables, an outdoor gym and fitness station, a spa and sauna, yoga and meditation areas, dining outlets and retail stores, function rooms, a nursery, and an events area, the statement concluded.

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