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A major contract has been awarded to Abu Dhabi-based Masdar for the construction of the 1,800MW sixth phase of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. The contract, which was awarded by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is worth US $1.5bn.
Masdar emerged the winner with a Levelised Cost of Energy (LCOE) of $1.6215 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh), after beating competition from 23 high-calibre international bidders. The firm’s bid for the project was said to have been the lowest of any of DEWA’s solar Independent Power Producer (IPP) model projects to date.
The sixth phase of the project will be using photovoltaic solar panels based on the Independent Power Producer (IPP) model.
The agreement was signed at a ceremony in Abu Dhabi by Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Chairman of Masdar, and Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of DEWA in the presence of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.
“Today, I witnessed with Mansour bin Zayed the signing of an agreement between the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority and Masdar, Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company, to implement the sixth phase of the world’s largest single-site solar park, at a cost of $1.5bn. This phase will power over half a million residences while reducing carbon emissions by 2.36m tonnes annually. All phases of this landmark project are expected to be completed by 2030, with a total investment of $13.6bn. We’re on track to achieve our ambitious goal – 100% clean energy for Dubai by 2050,” stated Sheikh Mohammed.
According to DEWA, the current total production capacity of solar projects at the solar park stands at 2,427MW. The utility company also said it is building another project with a total capacity of 433MW. The 1,800MW sixth phase of the solar park will increase total production capacity to 4,660MW.
Dr Al Jaber added, “Being awarded this landmark renewable energy project on the world’s largest single-site solar park is another significant milestone for Masdar. It is a testament to Masdar’s track record in pioneering clean energy projects as we continue to support the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative. Ahead of our nation hosting COP28 later this year, it is vital that the world triples global renewable energy capacity by 2030 to keep the ambition of 1.5 degrees within reach. This landmark project demonstrates definitive action in our shared journey towards a cleaner, greener future.”
Al Tayer said the agreement underscores the UAE’s prominent status as one of the world’s largest investors in clean and renewable energy projects. He noted, “It also affirms our support for the UAE’s hosting of the COP28 at Expo City Dubai, aligning our strategies and policies with the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030 in sustainability, innovation and future-making.”
Masdar CEO Mohammed Jameel Al Ramahi said: “Following our successful delivery of phase three of the Al Maktoum Solar Park as part of an international consortium, this latest award once again shows that Masdar is a global leader in clean energy as we move forwards from 20GW capacity today to reach 100GW of clean energy capacity by 2030 driving decarbonisation at home and abroad. When fully completed, the solar park will reduce over 6.5m tonnes of carbon emissions annually. The 1,800MW sixth phase will become operational in stages starting from Q4 next year.”
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The Devmark Group has sold out Phase 1 of Society House. The stunning 52-story residential development is situated in one of the last available plots in Downtown Dubai, marking a significant achievement for the two industry leaders.
This collaboration marks the third joint venture between Devmark and IGO, with Devmark serving as the exclusive master agent for the sales and marketing of Society House. The residential tower, Society House is intender as a testament to contemporary architecture, adding a distinctive touch to Dubai’s prestigious Downtown address.
Society House presents a range of residential options, including studios, one, two, and three-bedroom fully furnished apartments. Embracing sophistication, innovation, and sustainable design principles, each unit is thoughtfully designed to provide spacious living and captivating views of the city through floor-to-ceiling glass windows.
IGO and Devmark have equipped Society House with a host of amenities and facilities catering to residents’ diverse lifestyles. Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy a fully equipped outdoor CrossFit box and a top-tier fitness studio, while golf aficionados can refine their skills in the state-of-the-art golf simulator. The residents’ lounge will serve as a communal hub for interaction and relaxation, and co-working spaces and meeting rooms offer a valuable work-from-home setup.
Leisure and entertainment are well accounted for, with a horizon deck boasting breathtaking views of the Dubai skyline, a 25-meter lap pool, paddle courts, and a private cinema. A dedicated children’s play area ensures that residents of all ages have ample recreational opportunities.
Society House was officially launched at an exclusive event held at the luxurious Atlantis Hotel Ballroom. This unveiling garnered significant attention from Devmark’s extensive broker network, with over 2,000 agents in attendance, reaffirming the immense interest and anticipation surrounding Society House.
Devmark and IGO worked closely to determine the optimal unit mix and sizes for Society House, setting ticket prices accessible to a broad range of potential investors and homeowners. Moreover, Society House offers a post-handover payment plan, providing buyers with greater flexibility in payment options, particularly benefiting international buyers who may not typically qualify for traditional financing options.
Sean McCauley, CEO of The Devmark Group, expressed, “Our collaboration with IGO on Society House extends beyond a typical partnership; it reflects trust and synergy between our organizations. The launch of Society House marks our third partnership with IGO, and it has proven to be one of the most successful launches of the year. Our extensive broker network has enthusiastically embraced this project, which is a product the market wants and needs. With reasonable ticket prices, a downtown address, and a post-handover payment plan, we have created the right recipe for achieving sales success.”
Dr. Anas Kozbari, CEO and Founder of IGO, added, “We are delighted to collaborate with Devmark once again to introduce Society House, the epitome of luxury living, in the coveted setting of Downtown Dubai. Society House is set to become a distinguished icon within the city, and our unwavering commitment to quality, luxury, and sustainable practices is evident in every inch of its innovative design.”
“With project completion slated for 2025, Devmark is now accepting bookings for Phase 2 at the IGO sales center located at the Art of Living Mall on Umm Suqeim Road.”
This collaboration between Devmark Group and Invest Group Overseas reflects a shared commitment to delivering exceptional living spaces and enhancing the community experience in Downtown Dubai.
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Hoffmann Green Cement Technologies, a leading industrial player dedicated to decarbonising the construction sector through clinker-free cements, has announced a significant milestone in its global expansion efforts.
The company has inked a 22-year exclusive licensing agreement with the Shurfah Group, a prominent Saudi conglomerate, to establish multiple Hoffmann Green cement production units in Saudi Arabia. This strategic collaboration aims to advance the decarbonization of the construction sector within the region.
The 22-year licensing agreement provides the Shurfah Group with exclusive rights to leverage Hoffmann Green’s pioneering clinker-free cement technologies and replicate a first-of-its-kind plant based on the H2 vertical model. The Shurfah Group, with a substantial portfolio of over 13,800 thousand housing units and investments exceeding 6 billion Saudi riyals, will be responsible for financing, building, and operating Hoffmann Green production units. Furthermore, the agreement grants exclusive marketing rights for Hoffmann Green’s carbon-free cements throughout Saudi Arabia. The first clinker-free cement plant, identical to the H2 model, is scheduled for construction in 2024 within Saudi Arabia.
The engineering and production processes for these plants will be executed by IBAU Hamburg, a German general contractor. Hoffmann Green entered into an exclusive partnership agreement with IBAU Hamburg in June 2022 to support the construction of Hoffmann units worldwide. Importantly, all vertical units, including the ones in Saudi Arabia, will be constructed entirely with Hoffmann Green cement.
In return for the transfer of industrial and technological expertise, along with granting exclusivity, Hoffmann Green will receive an entry fee and fixed and variable annual royalties based on the sales of Hoffmann cements in Saudi Arabia.
This partnership’s primary objective is to facilitate the ecological transition of Saudi Arabia’s construction sector by establishing multiple vertical plants for the production of Hoffmann Green cement. Beyond the first plant, the contract aims to duplicate several H2 plants throughout Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia, through its “Vision 2030” national plan for economic transformation, has prioritized the ecological transition, particularly in the burgeoning construction market, driven by numerous Smart Cities projects. Through their future plants, Hoffmann Green and the Shurfah Group intend to contribute to the decarbonisation of Saudi Arabia’s construction sector and assist the nation in accelerating its path towards carbon neutrality.
Julien Blanchard and David Hoffmann, co-founders of Hoffmann Green Cement Technologies, expressed their enthusiasm, stating, “Just a few weeks after signing a pre-agreement, we have given concrete expression to our commitment by signing this licensing contract with Shurfah, a major player in the Saudi Arabian construction industry. After Switzerland and the United Kingdom, we are continuing our international deployment with the aim of supporting, through this new contract, the kingdom’s ambitious ‘Vision 2030’ project and participating in the decarbonization of their construction industry through the construction of several of our units on their territory and the marketing of our 0% cement clinker.”
Abdullah Al Majed, Founder and Chairman of Shurfah Holding, added, “Saudi Arabia has announced that it is aiming for carbon neutrality by 2060. In order to meet its ecological ambitions, Shurfah is striving to contribute to the sustainable development of the Saudi economy and the realization of Vision 2030. In this context, we are proud to be associated with Hoffmann Green, which will enable us to build our future sites in a sustainable manner. The construction of the first vertical plant in 2024 is just the beginning before, we hope, the duplication of several units throughout the country.”
This partnership between Hoffmann Green Cement Technologies and the Shurfah Group marks a significant step toward sustainable construction practices and carbon neutrality in Saudi Arabia, aligning with the nation’s forward-looking ecological goals.
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The national importance of water efficiency in the built environment took centre stage as the Future of Water Summit (FOW Summit) got underway in at the Habtoor Grand Resort, JBR, Dubai;
The event has officially been endorsed by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) and organised by Big Project Middle East magazine.
Eng. Faisal Ali Al Rashid, senior director demand side management, Dubai Supreme Council of Energy delivered the keynote address, telling delegates that the UAE was instigating policies at a local and governmental level as part of its drive towards decarbonisation, including being on track to deliver 40% of its desalination via reverse osmosis by 2030.
“Water is a precious asset,” he emphasised.
Other topics that the FOW Summit focussed on: governance on water usage in the built environment and progress on regional water management strategies; strategies and tactics cities and structures can use to capture water from other sources (rain/humidity); enhancing water security; public and private sector projects to enhance water security (desalination facilities etc); technology that can boost water efficiency and conservation efforts; greywater reuse in structures; water distribution networks and technology to enhance their efficiency; wastewater treatment plants and sewage networks.
“The topic of water scarcity in the MENA region has been discussed extensively by the Big Project team over the past couple of years. We even debated whether we should include this crucial topic in our popular Energy & Sustainability Summit. However, after taking a deep dive into industry reports about the water challenges the MENA region faces, we felt that the topics of water scarcity and water security deserved an event on its own,” said Big Project Middle East magazine’s Jason Saundalker.
“Here are some eye-opening stats pertaining to the region: of the 17 most water-stressed countries in the world, 11 are in the Middle East and North Africa. The World Bank’s recent ‘Economics of Water Scarcity in the MENA region’ report warned that by the end of this decade, the amount of water available per capita annually, will fall below the absolute water scarcity threshold of 500 cubic meters per person, per year. The report also said that 14% of the region’s GDP could be lost due to water scarcity by 2050, and revealed that 90% of children live in high water stress areas,” the head of content continued.
“Millions of people in the MENA region are already affected by the water crisis today, and millions more could yet be affected, as drivers such as population and city growth, and climate change exert pressure on already strained water reserves. Taking all this into account, we decided on a broad agenda that covers as many facets as possible.”
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Responding to the evolving dynamics of urban living and a growing demand for creative communal spaces, the developer Āsper has joined forces with the renowned international architecture bureau IND to unveil an ambitious initiative – the Creative Cluster, poised to become the vibrant heart of Riyadh.
Inspired by the ever-changing urban panorama of Riyadh, the project’s team identified an opportunity to create a multifunctional space that nurtures creativity, fosters innovation, and facilitates cultural exchange.
The proposed location of the Creative Cluster encompasses a vast area in Al-Diriyah, pending confirmation. Spanning a sprawling plot of approximately 133,600 square meters, the Creative Cluster project blends culture and commerce, offering an array of diverse functional zones. These zones encompass co-working spaces, hotels, museum galleries, cafes, retail outlets, workshops, restaurants, and more. At the core of this development lies an expansive event plaza, designed to host events of various scales. The project’s design philosophy is aimed at catering to both local residents and international creatives, creating an environment conducive to the growth of talents and imaginative minds.
One of the distinguishing features of the Creative Cluster project is its strong emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly solutions. The use of rammed earth as the primary façade material for most buildings not only emphasizes aesthetics but also underscores a commitment to sustainability. This choice draws inspiration from historical and aesthetic references while championing local production, thus reducing the carbon footprint associated with material transportation.
The entire complex functions as an integrated system, seamlessly blending buildings and gardens. These gardens serve a multitude of purposes, ranging from recreational spaces to exhibition areas and educational venues. A canopy system acts as a visual connector between various functions while providing essential shade in the local climate. The incorporation of greenery is further complemented by the strategic use of water surfaces, contributing to a subtle reduction in air temperature.
Amir Idiatulin, CEO of IND, commented, “The Creative Cluster concept emerges from a shared commitment to reshape urban spaces by seamlessly integrating creativity and functionality. It aims to create a hub where entrepreneurship, artistic expression, and social engagement converge – a space that resonates with both local residents and global visitors.”
Artem Y.F., CDO, and co-founder of Āsper, added, “IND’s profound understanding of creative clusters, coupled with their enduring partnership with Āsper, makes them the ideal choice for this venture. We believe that our shared passion for the project, combined with expertise and a visionary approach, will result in a genuinely innovative development within the region.”
The proposed location in Al-Diriyah is said to enable the development to draw from the rich historical significance of the area, infusing an additional layer of cultural depth into the project while projecting it into a future characterized by innovation and vibrancy. The project strategically aligns with Riyadh’s iconic landmarks, including KAFD and Kingdom Center, further solidifying its role as a cultural gravity point.
Currently in the process of obtaining approvals and securing investments through MN Group, the Creative Cluster project holds the potential to become a new hub for the creative community, poised to reshape Riyadh’s cultural and commercial landscape once it advances to the implementation stage.
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MERED has officially announced its entry into the UAE market, choosing Dubai as its headquarters for crafting exclusive and opulent destinations. With a dedicated team of industry experts, artisans, and craftsmen, MERED is focusing on delivering human-centric experiences, environmental sustainability, cutting-edge technology, and design and architecture.
Dubai, known as one of the world’s fastest-growing cities, has been selected as the home for the international real estate developer ambitious projects. The company’s core mission is to create luxurious places that not only enhance people’s lives but also stand the test of time in terms of both value and building quality. MERED’s commitment to excellence has attracted global attention, and it aims to transform each real estate asset into a timeless masterpiece cherished by generations of buyers.
The ultra-luxury real estate sector in Dubai is experiencing a remarkable resurgence this year, setting unprecedented records on a global scale. According to data from the Dubai Land Department, the first half of 2023 witnessed apartment sales more than doubling, with a year-on-year growth rate of 63% over 2022. A total of 46,166 apartments were sold, amounting to a staggering AED 92.5 billion. Notably, the five most expensive apartments sold during this period ranged from AED 78 million to a staggering AED 410 million, with Dubai Marina continuing to feature prominently in this exclusive list. The prices of super-luxury apartments continue to rise quarter by quarter, with the fifth most expensive apartment of Q1 2023 being sold at AED 65 million, compared to Q2’s AED 78 million apartment sale.
In conjunction with its launch, MERED is preparing to unveil its flagship project in Dubai Internet City, the region’s premier technological hub, seamlessly connected to Dubai’s major attractions, including Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, Mall of the Emirates, and Jumeirah beaches.
This cutting-edge development, designed by the renowned architectural firm Pininfarina, will showcase world-class architecture and amenities that align with MERED’s visionary approach to the city.
Pininfarina originally began in the automotive world over 90 years ago, collaborating with iconic car brands such as Ferrari and Alfa Romeo. Today, it has evolved into a sought-after architecture and lifestyle design house, setting global standards for Italian design aesthetics.
With a portfolio of award-winning projects around the world, including Brazil, Spain, Singapore, Florida, and Washington, Pininfarina is set to create a breathtaking architectural icon on Dubai’s skyline in partnership with MERED.
Ramil Guliev, CEO of MERED, expressed his excitement about the company’s launch in the UAE, a region known for its forward-thinking innovation and grandeur. He emphasized MERED’s dedication to building excellence and delivering unparalleled living experiences, stating: “Our projects are not just buildings; they are unique places designed around the aspirations and needs of our discerning customers, reflecting our genuine care about the long-lasting impact on the community and the city.”
Guliev added: “As we embark on this journey, MERED envisions exponential growth, driven by our unwavering dedication to our customers and to the vision of Dubai. With our team’s focus and history of exceeding expectations, we aim to reshape the country’s luxury real estate landscape and leave a lasting legacy of extraordinary living experiences.”
MERED’s announcement marks a significant development in Dubai’s real estate sector, promising a new era of opulence, innovation, and architectural excellence. More details about MERED’s flagship project and future endeavors are expected to be revealed soon, further fueling anticipation for the company’s transformative impact on the UAE’s luxury real estate landscape.
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Plans to establish the ‘Global Water Organisation’ have been announced by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia. The organisation will aim to integrate and enhance the efforts made by governments and organisations in securing global water sustainably, and will have its headquarters in Riyadh.
According to a report by the Saudi Press Agency, one of the organisation’s most important goals is to establish quality projects and facilitate their financing, in an effort to ensure the sustainability of water resources and to enhance access to them for all. It also plans to exchange expertise, advance technology, foster innovation, and share research and development experiences. Moreover, it will promote the establishment and funding of high-priority projects, ensuring the sustainability of water resources and their accessibility for everyone.
The report noted that, over the years, the Kingdom has spent over US $6bn on a number of water and sanitation projects covering four continents, highlighting its notable achievements in water production, transportation, and distribution, leveraging locally developed innovative solutions.
On 6 September 2023, Big Project Middle East will host its inaugural Future of Water Summit at the Habtoor Grand Resort, JBR, Dubai. Registration is complementary but mandatory for industry professionals. Click here to register.
According to senior Saudi officials, these achievements have been internationally recognised. “Additionally, Saudi Arabia plays a key role in ensuring that global water issues remain a top priority on the international agenda,” they stated.
The organisation aims to collaborate with countries facing water-related challenges and those prioritising such projects on their national agendas. This collaboration will also involve countries with significant expertise and contributions to water solutions. Such cooperation becomes even more vital with projections of the global water demand doubling by 2050, in light of the anticipated growth of the world population to 9.8bn, the officials noted.
The Kingdom, with all of the organisation’s member countries, seeks to contribute to achieving the water security-related sustainable development goals, creating an integrated and long-lasting impact by bringing the international community together to ensure global water sustainability for humanity, the report explained.
By initiating the establishment of the organisation, Saudi Arabia is said to be showcasing its commitment to addressing global water supply challenges. The initiative is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s dedication to environmental sustainability.
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In response to the underreported but fast-growing global water challenges, the Big Project Middle East (BPME) editorial team has announced that water efficiency in the built environment will take centre stage at its forthcoming Future of Water Summit (FOW Summit).
The summit is scheduled to take place on 6 September 2023 at the Habtoor Grand Resort, JBR, Dubai; registration is complementary but mandatory for industry professionals. Click here to register, spaces are extremely limited.
The event has officially been endorsed by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
Other topics that the FOW Summit will focus on include: governance on water usage in the built environment and progress on regional water management strategies; strategies and tactics cities and structures can use to capture water from other sources (rain/humidity); enhancing water security; public and private sector projects to enhance water security (desalination facilities etc); technology that can boost water efficiency and conservation efforts; greywater reuse in structures; water distribution networks and technology to enhance their efficiency; wastewater treatment plants and sewage networks. Read more about the agenda here.
“I’m pleased to confirm that 23 senior executives are confirmed to speak at our inaugural Future of Water Summit on 6 September. The agenda covers a broad array of topics connected to the central themes of water security and resilience, which are critical topics that unfortunately do not get the attention they deserve. We’re hoping to highlight and debate a number of key issues, and hope to spur far reaching debate and collaboration,” says Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content, Big Project Middle East.
The event is being sponsored by:
Bronze Sponsors: Atkins and Thinkproject
Supporting Partners: Culligan, Hansgrohe and Polypipe
Hydration Partner: Wisewell
Endorsed by: CIOB, Dubai Supreme Council of Energy
Read more about the Future of Water Summit by clicking here.
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