Developer The Luxe Developers said it has experienced an increase in interest for its latest development, La Mazzoni, due to the growing global demand for real estate with health and well-being amenities.

As the UAE continues to attract ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWIs), the demand for premium residential properties has also witnessed growth. Recent reports have highlighted a shift in buyer preferences towards homes that promote well-being, privacy and sustainability.

According to research from Transparency Market Research, the global wellness real estate market where developers prioritise lifestyle, health, and environmental sustainability stood at US $438.3bn in 2023 and is expected to grow at annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.8% between 2024 and 2034, and will quadruple in size to $2tn by 2034. The growth highlights the shift in consumer preferences toward living and working environments that are focused on health, well-being and sustainability.

Shubam Aggarwal, Chairman and Co-owner of The Luxe Developers commented, “La Mazzoni offers a compelling proposition: a state-of-the-art luxury residence incorporating a modern design and holistic lifestyle. We have seen a shift in demand from investors who are increasingly looking for a more balanced lifestyle, with wellness-integrated residences now becoming a prerequisite for many. La Mazzoni was designed in direct response to this. By aligning a luxury living experience with well-being, we offer our clients a value proposition beyond traditional real estate investments.”

Taking inspiration from Ras Al Khaimah, themes relating to nature, sand, sea, and the mountainous landscape will be recognisable from the property’s exterior. Features at La Mazzoni will include wellness facilities, health programs, and biophilic designs. An indoor play area for children, outdoor and adventure park will also be provided.

Siddharta Banerji, Managing Director and Co-owner added, “The Luxe Developers has always been at the forefront of anticipating market trends and addressing the evolving needs of niche investors seeking a work-life balance. La Mazzoni reflects this philosophy by integrating health-focused amenities, sustainability, and exclusivity into its design. It is a prime example of how we aim to deliver long-term value for residents and investors. As the luxury real estate market evolves, developments that combine wellness, sustainability, and exclusivity are becoming increasingly valuable. La Mazzoni exemplifies this trend, offering a unique opportunity for investors seeking premium real estate in one of the UAE’s most dynamic regions.”

Residents will have access to indoor and outdoor gym, yoga studios, walking and jogging tracks, paddle courts, rooftop infinity pools, spa equipped with saunas, hammams, and therapy rooms. In addition to outdoor exercise facilities the development will also include water oases.

La Mazzoni will incorporate co-working spaces within the open-air outdoor areas, designed to inspire creativity and productivity. Two dedicated lounges, Sky Lounge and Connoisseur’s Corner, will provide additional meeting and working areas within the two-tower development, a library to undertake work in a quiet environment, the developer explained.

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China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), announced its 2024 Green Manufacturing List, with two of Hitachi Energy’s local manufacturing bases in Beijing and Datong in north China’s Shanxi Province, receiving the titles of National Green Factory. This brings Hitachi Energy’s local enterprises on the list to four.

MIIT organised National Green Factory to help improve China’s clean manufacturing system and promote sustainable industrial development. By 2024, there were over 6,400 national green factories in China. Green factories must feature intensive efficiency, clean production, waste utilisation, and low-carbon energy use as a fundamental part of the green manufacturing system.

“Hitachi Energy places sustainability at the heart of its purpose and is committed to working with customers and partners to advance the energy transition. The National Green Factory certification is a high recognition of our efforts in fulfilling social and environmental responsibilities in China,” said James Zhao, Executive Vice President and Region Head of Greater China, Hitachi Energy. “We will continue to accelerate the upgrade of our business in China, supporting China’s high-quality manufacturing and the realization of its carbon goals.”

The two new companies, Hitachi Energy Power System and Hitachi Energy Datong Traction Transformers, selected as green factories have integrated green development principles into every aspect of their productions and operations. In addition, in line with Hitachi Energy’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality within its operations by 2030, both factories commit to sourcing 100% of their purchased electricity from fossil-free sources.

Hitachi Energy Power System which recently celebrated the 70-years anniversary of HVDC-technology, is Hitachi Energy’s local manufacturing operations for China’s HVDC business. Following its long-term clean development plan, the Beijing facility has achieved significant energy savings and emission reductions across energy management, efficiency, transport, and recycling, the firm said.

On energy management, the site has optimised its power supply and upgraded to energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and exhaust systems to reduce electricity use and carbon emissions. Fuel vehicles have been replaced with electric ones in the industrial park and installed electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to promote clean commuting among employees.

The facility has introduced rainwater harvesting, smarter irrigation, and waste packaging recycling to boost resource reuse. Since launching its energy management system in early 2024, the company has reduced energy consumption per unit of product by 15% and annual water consumption by nearly 30%. It continues to strive toward a ‘clean supply chain enterprise’, making progress in sustainable manufacturing, the company explained.

Hitachi Energy Datong Traction Transformers provides high-quality, reliable, eco-friendly traction transformers to ensure stable and efficient operations for high-speed trains and locomotives. It is the only national green factory in Datong City that was awarded this year. The base implemented an advanced energy management system and a scientific energy use plan in its green factory initiative. Key measures include adopting energy-efficient equipment like lighting, dust removal systems, and vacuum pumps, installing solar water heaters, and sourcing clean electricity to optimise energy structure. Compared to 2023, the base has cut its energy consumption per unit of product by nearly 30% and reduced office electricity use by 50%.

Datong base has ramped up R&D efforts in eco-friendly transformers, focusing on compact and lightweight traction transformer designs and using biodegradable synthetic ester oil as a cooling medium to minimize environmental impact. The base has achieved over 95% material recyclability and launched new products for energy-saving transformers.

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GE Vernova and Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) have successfully completed the first gas turbine outage; the works were planned and executed by GE Vernova’s Saudi engineers and specialists.

The project at SEC’s eighth power plant in Riyadh is said to highlight both companies’ commitment to fostering local talent and promoting localisation within Saudi Arabia’s energy sector, in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.

This achievement comes just months after GE Vernova, in the presence of HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, Minister of Energy, celebrated the successful rollout of the first H-class gas turbine unit completed at the GE Saudi Advanced Turbines (GESAT) facility in Dammam, the firm said in a statement.

Engineer Abdulaziz Saeed Al-Shumaila, Head of Power Generation Operations in the Central Region, Saudi Electricity Company said, “We are committed to providing reliable and stable power supply for the Kingdom. GE Vernova’s Saudi-led outage at the eighth power plant marks a new era in the Saudi power sector, underscoring our commitment to driving innovation and developing local talent. Through our strategic collaboration with GE Vernova, we aim to empower more Saudi engineers and specialists to assume advanced leadership and technical roles within the Kingdom’s robust energy ecosystem. This collaboration will also contribute to local skills development initiatives, supporting the achievement of Vision 2030 goals.”

The maintenance, led by GE Vernova’s Gas Power One Field Services team in collaboration with SEC’s teams, was crucial for ensuring the reliability and efficiency of the power generation assets. It required meticulous planning and execution, demonstrating the culmination of a decade of comprehensive training, certifications, accreditations, practical experience, and professional development for Saudi talent, the firm said.

Male and female Saudi engineers and specialists at the eighth power plant prioritised rigorous safety protocols and successfully completed the project on schedule, supported by GE Vernova’s Live Outage platform. This digital tool enhances field execution through standardized procedures, streamlined tasks and safety best practices, it added.

Hisham Al Bahkali, President of GE Vernova, Saudi Arabia noted, “Our successful maintenance project at Riyadh’s eighth power plant showcases the Kingdom’s local talent in driving a more sustainable energy future, directly supporting Vision 2030. This achievement demonstrates Saudi engineers’ capabilities in managing complex energy projects. Our ongoing collaboration with SEC will further advance the Kingdom’s energy transformation and cultivate national competencies.”

He added, “This accomplishment caps a remarkable year for GE Vernova in Saudi Arabia, notably the rollout of the first H-Class gas turbine at the GESAT facility. This advanced turbine is set to power the Jafurah Cogeneration Independent Steam and Power Plant (ISPP), highlighting our commitment to supporting national strategies, including Vision 2030.”

The eighth power plant in Riyadh is a strategic facility that plays a crucial role in addressing the growing electricity demands of the capital. With a production capacity exceeding 1,700MW, it significantly enhances the stability of the electrical grid in Riyadh and its surrounding areas. The plant comprises several blocks, one of which is equipped with four of GE Vernova’s 7F gas turbines, collectively capable of producing close to 500MW.

GE Vernova’s power plant outage services team brings extensive experience in optimising power plant performance through expert maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. This Saudi-led initiative marks a pivotal step in enhancing plant efficiency and the long-term reliability of power units, the firm said.

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Ras Al Khaimah’s (RAK) real estate market is poised for substantial growth and price appreciation in the coming years, driven by a surge in demand and a housing shortage, according to Metropolitan Premium Properties (MPP), a full-service real estate agency and a subsidiary of the Metropolitan Group. Despite the launch of new projects on Marjan Island, the market is projected to experience a significant shortage of homes by the time the Wynn Gaming resort structure is completed in late 2025, said MPP.

According to MPP, new projects are expected this year but the current delivery timeline creates a gap. The number of new units expected to be delivered in RAK this year remains relatively low. In 2024, only 318 units were delivered in Marina Residence at Al Hamra and 89 in Marbela 2. In 2025, two projects in Mina are promising, but demand will likely exceed supply.

Maxim Novikov, Head of RAK branch, Metropolitan Premium Properties said, “Even with new projects underway on Marjan Island, RAK will face a shortage of available homes. Demand is expected to continue to outpace supply, making it an exciting market to watch in the near future. There has been strong demand, particularly for waterfront and beachfront properties in RAK, with many new developments selling out quickly. Several projects are selling out during their launch phase or even before they are officially announced. We are witnessing exceptionally strong demand, particularly for beachfront properties.”

The shortage of ready units has resulted in off-plan property prices increasing on average 15-20% in 2024, and this is expected to continue this year as well. The highest demand is for studios and one-bedroom units in waterfront projects near the Wynn Resort.

“Properties close to the Wynn Resort are seeing significant interest, especially smaller studio and one-bedroom units. At the same time, there is a noticeable demand for commercial, retail spaces, as well as villas and townhouses in prime waterfront locations. However, the supply of these types of properties remains limited. The real estate market in RAK is set for dynamic growth and entering an exciting phase. Investors and home-buyers alike should be prepared for rising prices and increased competition for the limited available properties,” added Novikov.

Several key factors are expected to drive demand for real estate in RAK over the next few years. The population of the emirate is projected to nearly double, reaching 650,000 residents by 2030. Additionally, the rapid progress of the Wynn Resort construction is fueling excitement and interest in the area.

Ras Al Khaimah’s Economic Zone (RAKEZ) is also attracting entrepreneurs from around the world, boosting demand for both residential and commercial properties. RAKEZ achieved record growth in 2024, welcoming 13,141 new companies, which represents a 66% increase in registrations compared to 2023. Also, the emirate’s approach to cryptocurrency trading and blockchain technology is another factor contributing to its appeal, said the statement from MPP.

While Marjan Island continues to garner considerable attention, other regions in Ras Al Khaimah are also poised for substantial growth, as per the Ministry of Planning and Public Works (MPP). Areas like Mina, Al Hamra, and RAK Central are anticipated to witness substantial development, presenting lucrative opportunities for real estate investors.

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Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company has launched waterfront townhouses at The Seef in Downtown Lusail, located in Lusail’s waterfront district. The luxury residences offer sea views and “exceptional lifestyle” for both investors and residents.

The Seef provides freehold ownership and residency making it a viable option for foreign investors, with mortgage financing options available through local banks, along with direct payment plans offering 0% interest from Qatari Diar—spanning up to six years for apartments and four years for townhouses.

The project is said to represent a blend of modern design and integrated services that meet the aspirations of investors seeking quality. The ready-to-move-in townhouses offer contemporary living, sea views of the Qetaifan Islands and the skyline of Lusail City. Lusail is known for its infrastructure and designs, a place that combines smart and sustainable living in urban areas offering a residential experience that blends luxury and innovation, said a statement.

Additionally, the project features a range of amenities, including sky bridge swimming pools, a fitness club, children’s playgrounds, squash courts, beach access, and peaceful walking paths.

The project’s location offers access to public transportation, shopping centres, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions in Lusail. It is also close to key attractions in Qatar and Lusail, such as Meryal Waterpark, Lusail Marina, and Place Vendôme Mall, all said to be minutes away from some of the most modern destinations in Qatar.

The Seef exemplifies Qatari Diar’s commitment to sustainability, incorporating energy-efficient infrastructure and green landscaping to meet sustainability standards. Architectural and engineering innovations, such as sky bridges with swimming pools connecting the towers, set The Seef apart from other residential developments, the developer noted.

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Developer MERED will support the inaugural Pininfarina Academy, an educational initiative by the Italian design firm, Pininfarina. The academy is crafted to nurture excellence in architectural design among emerging industry professionals by providing them with an exclusive opportunity to learn from experts and captivating design concepts at Pininfarina’s headquarters in Turin, Italy. MERED said that it is honored to sponsor four students at the Pininfarina Architecture Summer School.

The exclusive 3 x 3 x 3 Summer School launches this July with a course integrating advanced design techniques and Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) in contemporary architecture. The program is tailored to equip architects with the skills and expertise to redefine modern architecture and urban development. Participants will engage in hands-on workshops, keynote lectures by industry leaders, and practical applications of technology, including AI-driven design, parametric modelling, and immersive VR/AR tools.

By sponsoring four students, MERED reinforces its mission to redefine premium developments through visionary design and strategic partnerships by nurturing next-generation talent. The developer’s portfolio includes the 290m ICONIC Residences in Dubai Design by Pininfarina, an upcoming waterfront project in Abu Dhabi, and it has recently entered the Saudi market. The developer said it is dedicated to having an expert team that can push the boundaries of design in the real estate landscape.

The Pininfarina Architecture Summer School will be held from 14 to 25 July of this year, and instruction will be given in English. Applications are open to 12 aspiring architects, offering them learning experience, the chance to connect with like-minded peers, and the opportunity to collaborate with industry leaders.

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Meraas has launched the final phase of ‘The Acres’, its standalone villa community project. It comprises of three-, four- and five-bedroom villas in addition to ‘The Acres Estates’, featuring the Amber and Ivory Collections with five-, six, and seven-bedroom mansions. Each residence has a distinct architectural style upholding sustainability and refined living, the developer said.

The Acres villas feature blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces, centrally located kitchens with easy access to dining and lounge areas, master bedroom suites with private terraces and walk-in closets, bathrooms with views of the surrounding landscape, and courtyard designs maximising natural light and privacy. Private gardens that are directly connected to pedestrian pathways surrounded with greenery lead to the park and lagoon. The Amber Collection has contemporary aesthetic with clean lines and natural materials, while the Ivory Collection presents a traditional design with vertical stone-clad walls and minimalist white horizontal lines, the developer explained.

Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer, Dubai Holding Real Estate said, “The launch of the final phase of The Acres reflects our commitment to creating sustainable communities that promote well-being and a strong connection with nature, values that are increasingly important to today’s homeowners. With evolving consumer preferences prioritising eco-conscious living, wellness-focused design, and thoughtfully integrated spaces, The Acres is designed to meet these changing needs. Achieving LEED Gold pre-certification further underscores our dedication to environmental responsibility and global best practices, ensuring a future-focused lifestyle for our residents.”

The Acres is designed with sustainability in architecture and the community is committed to an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions per capita compared to the national average and utilises 33% less water than the UAE average, with 100% of irrigation demand covered by treated wastewater. The project incorporates water-saving fixtures, efficient irrigation systems, and low-water plants.

Residents can benefit from an abundance of green spaces, with every villa said to be a three-minute walk from a park. The community is designed to feature social infrastructure including the Halo Loop Park, a nursery, school, clinic, mosques, clubhouses, retail area, and an Edible Garden. Lifestyle amenities include a trail network, outdoor gym, playgrounds, swimming pools, and sports areas.

The community was awarded with LEED Gold for Communities pre-certification,  a unique aspect of the LEED programme that showcases commitment to building environmentally responsible communities from the ground up and to international standards, with sustainability at all of its operation, said a statement from the developer.

This pre-certification, a first for Meraas, was awarded by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI), the administrative body responsible for verifying LEED and other green certification schemes, following a review of The Acres’ early design stage documentation. LEED, or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the world’s most widely recognised green building rating system.

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Dubai’s residential property sector has 243,000 units in the pipeline from now until the end of 2027, with apartments accounting for 80% of future inventory, according to Cavendish Maxwell’s 2024 Dubai Residential Market Performance report. The booming off-plan sector continued to dominate the market, with sales four times up on pre-Covid levels. Almost 145,000 new off-plan units came to the market during the year – an average of 400 per day, the report showed.

The report said that the property market soared to record-breaking heights last year with 169,000 sales – an increase of 42% on 2023. Prices saw sustained increases during the year, ending 0.9% up month-on-month in December, and 3.1% higher than the previous quarter. Year-on-year, prices rose 16.5%, representing an increase of more than 90% on the April 2009 low.

In fact, Dubai’s residential property sector closed 2024 with 47 months of continuous price rises. However, as anticipated by Cavendish Maxwell, the rate of appreciation is starting to slow, with monthly growth now hovering around 1%, compared to previous month-on-month increases of up to 2.5%. Mortgage activity also soared in 2024, hitting an all-time high of 36,600 loans, up almost a third on 2023.

Ronan Arthur, MRICS, Partner and Head of Residential Valuation, Cavendish Maxwell said, “These impressive figures are not just the result of the recovery from the pandemic. They reflect a strong, stable property market that has seen consistent growth since 2022, driven by continued international demand from India, China and other Middle Eastern countries in particular.”

“While Dubai’s residential market remains extremely robust, with further growth expected in 2025, there are now signs of an adjustment to more sustainable levels. As with previous market cycles, the emirate’s regulators, developers and investors are taking the right steps to avoid runaway growth which, as we have seen before, could threaten market stability,” he added.

Emaar Properties, Binghatti Properties and DAMAC Properties led the new launch market in terms of both units released and sales value. In 2024, under construction projects represented 68% of the total residential market.

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AMIS Development has broken ground on Woodland Terraces, a US $35.1mn residential project at District 11, Meydan. The milestone is said to mark the beginning of construction for the modern luxury development, which is scheduled for completion in Q1 2027.

The groundbreaking ceremony took place at the project site, attended by AMIS Development’s senior leadership and partners. The event reaffirmed to redefine living through innovation, design, and amenities. AMIS Development also secured investment from the First APAC Fund VCC, Singaporean investment fund, signing  a MoU in 2024 to invest $1.3bn in the company.

Neeraj Mishra, Founder and CEO, AMIS Development said, “Breaking ground on Woodland Terraces is a testament to our vision of delivering exceptional homes that blend modern aesthetics with unparalleled comfort. Our project will be a defining addition to Meydan’s landscape, offering residents an elegant and contemporary lifestyle. With a strong foundation and unwavering dedication, we are excited to bring this development to life by Q1 2027.”

AMIS Development’s mission is to create designed homes with open-plan living, expansive terraces, and floor-to-ceiling glass facades. Designed for modern living, the residences at Woodland Terraces include one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments featuring en-suite bathrooms, walk-in closets, and laundry areas to provide both style and functionality, said the developer.

Residents will have access to a rooftop infinity pool, sports amenities, a fitness centre, yoga area, and an outdoor theater, while the ground floor includes a kids play area, lobby and AMIS Café, it added.

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