Future of Engineering Summit™ / 28 May 2025

The American Concrete Institute (ACI) and the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) have jointly released the ACI/PCI CODE-319-25 in PDF format. This code offers valuable insights into the materials, design, and detailing of structural precast concrete buildings and non-building structures.

Developed through a general agreement process, ACI/PCI CODE-319-25 sets minimum requirements for plant-produced and site-produced structural precast concrete incorporating non pre-stressed or pre-tensioned reinforcement. The Design Standard Committee of PCI played important role in shaping the code’s provisions and commentary, contributing their expertise to advance the industry.

ACI 319 PLUS subscribers have had exclusive digital access to ACI/PCI CODE-319-25 through the ACI PLUS Platform, featuring digital notetaking, search capabilities, 3D graphics, and cross-referencing tools. With this release, the PDF version is now available for wider accessibility, ahead of the physical print edition.

“The collaboration between ACI and PCI to produce ACI/PCI CODE 319-25 has been phenomenal said Andrea Schokker, ACI/PCI Committee 319 Chair, we owe its success to the dedication and expertise of committee members and staff in both organizations, and we look forward to continuing this strong partnership in the next cycle.”

ACI recently expanded its ACI PLUS Platform to provide industry professionals with interactive digital access to multiple new concrete codes and resources. In addition to ACI 319 PLUS, the platform’s subscriptions include ACI 318 PLUS, ACI 320 PLUS, and the ACI 562 PLUS Repair Subscription, offering subscribers access to up-to-date codes, design examples, and supplementary materials.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

Shamal have awarded the main works contract for its upcoming Baccarat Hotel and Residences Dubai to Arabian Construction Co. (ACC). The UAE-based contractor specialises in complex construction and infrastructure projects, with developments including high-rises and five-star hotels, in the UAE and internationally. Baccarat Hotel and Residences Dubai will include hotel rooms and residences.

The groundbreaking for the project took place in January 2024; with all enabling works and infrastructure packages now 100% complete, the main works contractor will start mobilisation imminently. Arabian Construction brings in expertise in executing complex design structures, and has a deep understanding of the distinctive architectural and design requirements for the project.

“We are delighted to mark another milestone in our journey to enrich Dubai’s world-class skyline with the legendary Baccarat brand. We are particularly pleased to partner with such a well-established and accomplished contractor in this dynamic city,” said Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Executive Officer, Shamal.

“A development of the calibre of Baccarat Hotel and Residences Dubai representing exquisite hospitality and living demands the best in the industry for every element, and we are confident that our development partners H&H alongside Arabian Construction Co. will enable us to fulfil our promise to deliver the ultimate in luxury for both our visitors and residents alike,” Binhabtoor added.

Miltos Bossinis, Chief Executive Officer, H&H. said, “We are proud to partner with Shamal on developing this architectural landmark that will add greater allure to the city’s skyline. We are pleased to have Arabian Construction Co. on board to build further on our vision of creating exceptional experiences through development and design.”

Maher Merehbi, Chief Executive Officer, Arabian Construction Co. commented, “We are proud to be named as the main contractor for the prestigious Baccarat Hotel and Residences Dubai, which will be a beacon of luxury and elegance on Downtown Dubai’s awe-inspiring skyline. Our considerable expertise and experience make us the ideal partner for such an iconic brand as Baccarat, and our passion for excellence and the highest of quality and standards is shared with Shamal and H&H. Together, we look forward to bringing this magnificent development to life.”

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Source: MEConstructionNews

HKR announced the promotion of Ayna Azhigali to Director. Azhigali has been an integral part of HKR for the past ten years, from Senior Architect to Associate, Associate Director, and now Director. Her expertise spans all project design and delivery stages, with strengths in residential mixed-use, hospitality and workplace in both UK and MENA region, said the company.

Azhigali has a record of securing planning approvals and leading projects through construction. Her recent work includes delivering one of the fully volumetric residential developments, comprising 9,000 apartments in KSA and designing a large-scale mixed-use residential scheme in the UK, which will provide 348 new affordable homes across four blocks with a new public realm, retail and refurbishment of Grade Two listed train station.

Kola Ojeyomi, Managing Director of HKR said, “Ayna’s promotion to Director is a testament to her dedication, leadership, and exceptional design expertise. She has been instrumental in delivering high-quality projects that reflect HKR’s ethos always pioneering and challenging convention. As we continue our expansion, particularly in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan, Ayna’s insight and experience will be invaluable in shaping the future of industrialised design and construction while further reinforcing HKR’s position as a global leader in design consultancy.”

Azhigali commented, “I’m truly inspired to step into this role at a pivotal moment when HKR is leading the charge in innovation in design and construction. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to HKR’s bold vision for the future, where design excellence thrives within a framework of cutting-edge technology and AI-driven solutions. Designing within context, delivering beyond expectation is the team’s guiding principle. I’m excited to be part of it, helping shape the future of our industry and pushing the limits of what’s possible.”

In recent years, the firm has positioned itself at the forefront of the industry, improving construction efficiency and reducing environmental impact through technologies. HKR has developed in-house AI-driven design tools that optimise building performance and streamline project workflows, revolutionising the design process and the client experience, the statement concluded.

The post HKR appoints Ayna Azhigali as Director appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Oman Tourism Development Company (Omran Group) unveiled the design of Club Med Musandam Resort, the first of its kind in the Middle East. The resort will offer an all-inclusive luxury experience in Musandam with the aim of strengthening Oman’s profile as a high-end, sustainable tourism destination.

The architectural design was selected through the Club Med Musandam Design Competition, an international contest launched at the end of last year to elevate the resort’s appeal and sustainability. The competition attracted top architects and designers from around the world, showcasing concepts blending luxury, environmental responsibility, and cultural authenticity.

The winning concept was presented by AW², a Paris-based architecture and interior design firm with projects in Saudi Arabia and other markets. The resort’s design blends elements of Omani heritage with modern sustainability standards, drawing on the natural landscape of Musandam for inspiration.

Talal al Masoudi, Senior Development Manager at Omran Group said, “Revealing the design of Club Med Musandam is a pivotal milestone in the resort’s development. This project reflects our vision to enrich Oman’s tourism landscape with innovative and sustainable hospitality offerings that align with global industry trends.”

David Vély, Vice President, Development at Club Med added, “This flagship project demonstrates strong environmental and human sensitivity, incorporating sustainable solutions that reinforce local integration and contribute to responsible development in harmony with the site. We believe that Club Med values and features are perfectly embodied in the project and well-tuned with what local families would like to experiment.”

With 300 rooms, wellness retreats, adventure activities, dining options, with a design integrating local materials and eco-friendly technologies to reduce environmental impact. It is expected to contribute to local employment, with over 1,000 direct and indirect jobs, and support for SMEs and entrepreneurs.

The post Omran unveils the design of Club Med Musandam Resort project appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

The Minister of Public Works, Noura Al Mashaan, has signed a design contract with Turkish company Proyapi for the first phase of its GCC railway network to initiate the design of the initial phase of the Kuwait-to-Gulf countries railway project. The scope of work includes study, detailed design, and tender document preparation.

The consultancy contract was awarded to Proyapi in January for US $8.1mn, with the advisory period set to last about a year. The Kuwaiti part of the project is scheduled to be completed by 2030. The Kuwaiti segment of this project will feature a 111km track running from Shadadiya (site of the main Kuwait Railway Station on a two million sqm plot) to Nuwaiseeb.

This strategic project aligns with the GCC vision to establish a 2,177km transnational railway network connecting all member states from Kuwait to Oman. The six Gulf Cooperation Council countries agreed to build the rail network in 2009 and construction has started on railways in the UAE, Oman and Saudi Arabia.

Ahmed Al-Saleh, Assistant Undersecretary for Planning and Development and Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Public Works, said, “The project has great social and economic importance for the smooth transport of passengers and goods, it is being implemented in line with the desire of the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries”.

“The signing ceremony marked the commencement of the project in Kuwait. Once you sign the design contract, you’ve started and placed the wheels on the right track, it was not possible to determine the final cost of the Kuwaiti part of the project until the final design is completed,” he added.

Construction is already underway in the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia, and the project aims to boost regional trade, travel, and tourism. Once completed, the network will provide both passenger and freight transportation services across the region. The agreement encompasses design and engineering studies, soil testing, route mapping, and the preparation of tender documents for the subsequent construction phase. Once the design work is finalised, Kuwait will move forward with inviting bids for the actual construction.

The post Kuwait awards GCC rail link design consultancy contract to Proyapi appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

SEE Holding has unveiled its new development, The Sustainable City 2.0 (TSC 2.0). This development incorporates Net Zero and human-centric features, setting a new standard for sustainable urban development, the developer said.

In this city driven by artificial intelligence (AI), waste is transformed into a valuable resource, it is repurposed, recycled, or converted into energy to prevent it from accumulating in landfills. As a result, the developer says it can prevent landfills from accumulating waste and foster a resilient circular economy. Additionally, passive and active design elements, such as evaporative cooling and micro wind turbines will help maintain a cooler microclimate.

Mobility is planned to be fully electric and autonomous, featuring shared e-cars and e-bikes, self-driving shuttles, and every home will be equipped to support contactless delivery through last-mile delivery robots and drone pads, said the statement from SEE Holding. Every element is designed to offer residents more time, stronger connections, and a better quality of life in a forward-thinking, sustainable community.

Faris Saeed, the Chairman and CEO of SEE Holding said, “This is not a vision of the distant future. It is a model we are building today, driven by AI, achieving Net Zero, and designed around people. Building on years of experience and success with pioneering sustainable communities, we are now introducing a revolutionary urban model that is designed not just for today – but for generations to come. The Sustainable City 2.0 is the culmination of everything we’ve learned, enhanced by the power of intelligent systems and built around a clear purpose: to ensure people remain at the centre of progress in a rapidly evolving, AI-driven world.”

Neighbourhoods are designed to be pedestrian-friendly and surrounded by nature. They also have wellness infrastructure, including motion-activated running tracks, solar-heated pools, and energy-efficient gyms. Learning is vast and future-oriented, with next-generation classrooms and future labs that facilitate the realisation of ideas. Healthcare is proactive, supported by digital monitoring systems that track well-being and enable early intervention.

The post SEE Holding unveils new AI-driven sustainable city in Abu Dhabi appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Oman’s Nama Power & Water Procurement Company (NPWPC) said it attracted significant global and regional interest for two of its most important upcoming energy projects – the Misfah Integrated Power Project (IPP) in the Muscat Governorate and the Duqm IPP in the Al Wusta region.

The projects are part of NPWPC’s long-term strategy to ensure the availability of sufficient electricity generation capacity at the lowest possible cost, in line with the growing energy needs driven by urbanisation and industrial development.

A total of twelve major utility developers have submitted their Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) for consideration including: Samsung C&T Corporation, Korea Western Power, Marubeni Corporation, Sumitomo, Reliance Power, Sembcorp Utilities, and Shenzhen Energy Group. These firms bring experience in developing large-scale power infrastructure and represent a strong vote of confidence in Oman’s energy sector.

Key regional companies that have entered the race include Acwa Power Company, Nebras Power, Al Ghanim International, Etihad Water and Electricity Company (EtihadWE), and Al Jomaih Energy & Water Company—highlighting the strategic importance of these projects within the GCC.

According to NPWPC, the combined scope of the projects includes the development of two combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT) power plants, with a total installed capacity of 2,400MW. Both plants will be developed under Oman’s Independent Power Project (IPP) model, which promotes private sector participation through competitive procurement and long-term power purchase agreements.

The Misfah IPP is expected to support the high energy demands of the capital region, while the Duqm IPP is aligned with the government’s broader plan to transform the Duqm Special Economic Zone into a major industrial and logistical hub. With the submission phase completed, Nama will proceed with the evaluation and shortlisting of qualified bidders, moving toward the next phase of project development and eventual financial close.

The post NPWPC receives strong response for Misfah and Duqm power plants appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

AVENEW Development and Al Tamayoz Contracting have signed a partnership to develop Rena, a beachfront residential project on Dubai Islands. The deal is said to be a milestone for AVENEW Development as it moves to redefine modern living through design communities.

The project will offer sea views, private beach access, and a coastal lifestyle for its residents. Rena is said to feature designed apartments, Dubai’s first sea-level townhouses, and a penthouse, crafted to maximise natural light and ocean views.

Residents will enjoy a selection of amenities, including a rooftop infinity pool, fitness centre, landscaped gardens, and a private beachfront lounge. The design philosophy of Rena is rooted in eco-conscious materials to create a living environment that is both sophisticated and responsible, said a statement.

“We are thrilled to partner with Al Tamayoz Contracting Co for the next phase of Rena’s development. Their expertise and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our vision to deliver a world-class exceptional living environment,” said Rasha Hassan, Managing Partner of AVENEW Development.

“We are proud to collaborate with AVENEW Development on Rena, a project that embodies sophistication and innovation. Our team is dedicated to executing this vision with precision, ensuring that every detail meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship,” said Samer Roushdy Mousa, Managing Partner of Al Tamayoz Contracting.

Rena offers range of apartments, including one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, as well as a penthouse. These apartments boast open layouts, premium finishes, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the spaces with the beauty of the sea. Additionally, the development offers private townhouses directly on the beach, offering homeowners the privilege of immediate access to sand and views of the ocean, said the statement.

Beyond its architecture, Rena benefits from prime location within Dubai Islands, offering connectivity to destinations such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai International Airport, as well as a multitude of dining, retail, and entertainment options.

The post AVENEW Development appoints contractor for Dubai Islands project appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

The Saudi Water Partnership Company (SWPC) has announced that its US $257mn utility project – Madinah 3 Wastewater plant has commenced commercial operations. The facility boasts a 200,000cu/m per day capacity which is expandable to 375,000cu/m per day in emergency situations.

The company said that it will also build 23km of recycled water collectors for irrigation, three storage tanks and their respective pumping stations. The treatment plant will have a collection well and pumping station, pre-treatment, biological reactor, sludge line, and recycled water pumping station.

The key project was developed by a Spanish infrastructure major ACCIONA with local firms – International Water Distribution Company (Tawzea) and Tamasuk as partners. SWPC said the project has been implemented on a build, own, operate and transfer (BOOT) model. One of the three new WWTP build by ACCIONA in Saudi Arabia.

As per the purchase deal with the consortium, ACCIONA will be responsible for the facility’s development, design, financing, construction, operation and maintenance over a 25-year period from the date of commercial operations.

The Madinah plant is said to have treated more than five million cu/m of wastewater during Ramadan and converted it into water suitable for industrial and agricultural use, thus contributing to reducing the environmental impact and improving the quality of life for its residents, said a statement from SWPC.

Last year ACCIONA celebrated it key safety milestone at the Madinah 3 project site clocking two million man-hours without Lost-Time Injuries. Hassan Allam Construction was responsible for the civil works of the plant. The waste treatment plant has a collection well and pumping station, pre-treatment installation, biological reactor, sludge line, and recycled water pumping station, it stated.

The post Madinah 3 wastewater plant kicks off commercial operations appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

WEG announced its support for Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC)’s 300km crude oil pipeline project, along with pumping and booster stations in the UAE capital to maintain flow efficiency. The project is being set up at an investment of US $3bn and will carry around 1.5m barrels of crude oil per day.

The company aims to deliver the drive packages by September; its scope of work involves supply of integrated drive package, including flameproof electric motors, variable speed drives (VSDs) and transformers to help maximise the efficiency, reliability and safety of the horizontal centrifugal pumps underpinning the infrastructure.

According to the group, 20 medium-voltage flameproof motors will be core for this project. These motors include nine W22Xdb 3.3kV, 50Hz units in frame sizes 500-560, with power rating between 850kW and 990kW, and eleven 900-frame 6.6kV M-Line motors with power rating between 6,710kW and 6,980kW. Other benefits include high energy efficiency and customisable configurations, with multiple mounting options and terminal box designs, ideal for applications demanding flexible installation like oil pipelines, it stated.

Designed to withstand the harsh environmental conditions of the Arabian desert, these motors can handle extreme temperatures of up to 55-degrees Celsius and are certified IP55 against dust and water. WEG’s solutions will drive multiple horizontal centrifugal pumps designed for heavy-duty industrial applications. The W22Xdb flameproof motors prioritise safety and efficiency in hazardous environments, adhering to global standards like Atex and IECEx. These motors boast robust construction using cast iron or welded steel frames, complemented by advanced cooling options and thermal and vibration monitoring for optimal reliability.

“This $3bn billion infrastructure project will boost the UAE’s energy export and security, transporting crude oil from Jebel Dhanna in Abu Dhabi to the Fujairah oil terminal on the eastern coast,” said a company spokesman.

Kiran Kumar, the HVS Development Sales Manager for HVS Motors & Drives said, “The fact the OEM supplying the centrifugal pumps for this critical pipeline project turned to us is a testament to WEG’s reputation for highly reliable customised drive solutions designed to minimise downtime and costs. Our integrated solution team worked closely with all stakeholders to meet the stringent requirements of this demanding application, including flame and arc resistance. Our ability to design an integrated drive package promptly was instrumental in enabling us to secure this important $22mn project,” he added.

The WEG M-Line (Master Line) comprises versatile and customisable three-phase induction motors designed for the demanding industrial applications. The motor’s optimal design and materials minimise losses while maximising efficiency. In addition, the motor’s structur provides low vibration levels, enhancing durability and reliability.

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Source: MEConstructionNews