His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, has issued a law regulating urban planning in Dubai, in his capacity as the Ruler of Dubai.

The law seeks to develop an integrated and effective urban planning system that encourages investment, sustainable development, prosperity and improves the quality of life for citizens. It also aims to ensure the security and safety of the emirate’s community, enhance governance of the urban planning sector, define the responsibilities of related authorities, and improve cooperation, coordination and integration among them.

The law also seeks to enhance the efficiency of preparing and implementing plans, strategies, and policies related to urban planning, monitoring and gauging their results and achieving the principles of justice, equality, transparency and accountability. In addition, it will contribute to establishing a process for environmental impact assessment, creating a strategic framework for evaluation in Dubai.

The first step in implementing the law will be the setting-up of a new ‘Supreme Committee for Urban Planning’, composed of representatives of relevant authorities responsible for urban planning in Dubai, who will in turn be appointed through a resolution issued by the Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.

The law defines the tasks and responsibilities of the Supreme Committee, including setting the general policy for urban planning in Dubai and defining the objectives of urban development within the framework of the approved goals and strategies.

Meanwhile, the existing Supreme Committee for Urban Planning, established by Executive Council Resolution No 18 of 2021, will continue to exercise its tasks and responsibilities until the Supreme Committee is re-formed by a resolution issued by the Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai in accordance with the provisions of the new law.

Moreover, the ‘Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan’ is considered the approved structural plan for the emirate of Dubai, and Law No 16 of 2023 assigns Dubai Municipality with the sole responsibility of regulating the urban planning sector in Dubai. The law also grants Dubai Municipality with the authority to coordinate with relevant entities and authorities that oversee special development zones and free zones, if necessary, enabling it to carry out the tasks and responsibilities specified by this Law.

As per the law, it is prohibited for any person to carry out or allow any development works in Dubai without obtaining related permits. Every person must ensure compliance with applicable legislations in the emirate, while executing development works and be fully in line with the conditions of permits that are issued.

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ALEC Engineering & Contracting subsidiary, LINQ, has received a new modular construction license from the Dubai Municipality to begin a pilot project for a G+6 building.

According to a statement, the initial system approval allows LINQ to pilot the design and build of highly sustainable, customised modular G+6 units for commercial or residential developments, using cutting edge technology, new systems and materials. The approval is part of Dubai Municipality’s ongoing contribution to making Dubai one of the world’s most advanced and sustainable cities.

The initial system approval was granted at a ceremony held at LINQ’s manufacturing facility, which is said to be one of the largest of its kind in the GCC, in Dubai Industrial City. The ceremony was attended by several officials from Dubai Municipality, as well as top executives from Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD), ALEC, LINQ and other stakeholders.

“The license to pilot modular construction of a G+6 unit is yet another demonstration of the vision of the Dubai government and its eagerness to be the global hub for construction innovation. At LINQ, we are honoured to be the first organisation to be awarded this license and get an opportunity to showcase the viability of modular construction for both residential and commercial projects in Dubai,” said Bashar Kayali, General Manager at LINQ Modular.

The size of the construction market in the UAE was estimated to be US $86.7bn in 2022, and is projected to grow at an Average Annual Growth Rate (AAGR) of more than 3% between 2024 and 2071.

“The pace and scale of developments in Dubai is truly impressive and in line with H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, we at Dubai Municipality are keen to ensure that this momentum is maintained in the most sustainable manner possible,” explained Eng. Ahmed Al Salami, Principle Research & Building Studies at Dubai Municipality.

“We are therefore proud to support innovative organisations such as LINQ that are pioneering advanced construction techniques such as modular construction. The introduction of this paradigm will translate to the more rapid and controlled production of high-quality buildings which can meet the needs of a wide range of stakeholders, from the hospitality sector to residential developments and even commercial developments like malls and offices,” he elaborated.

The modular units will be built at LINQ’s 300,000sqft manufacturing facility. With a workforce of 1,000 employees, the facility has the capacity to produce 1,900 units per year.

A McKinsey & Co report found that modular production can speed up the construction process by as much as 50%, while reducing costs by 20%.

Aligning with the UAE government’s vision for sustainability and advanced techniques in construction, LINQ offers precision-built, modern buildings with an unparalleled focus on sustainability and the industry’s highest quality standards and best practices. The company’s modular building designs have been created using BIM (Building Information Modelling) software, ensuring each structure only uses the required amount of material with a minimal amount of waste, the statement concluded.

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According to Shada Radi, spokesperson for the Iraqi Ministry of Transport, a special group has been established to oversee the implementation of a project to build 1,200km of road and rail infrastructure that will link the country to Europe and other countries in the Middle East.

Once complete, the US $16.9bn ‘Route of Development’ project will run from Iraq’s northern border with Turkey to the southern Gulf region. The plan comprises the construction of approximately 15 stations along the route, including major cities such as Basra, Baghdad, Mosul, and locations up to the Turkish border.

Plans for the route include the introduction of high-speed trains operating at speeds of up to 300km per hour, with connections to local industrial hubs and including an energy component with the potential for oil and gas pipelines.

As per Radi, the primary objective of the project is to enhance economic cooperation between Iraq, Turkey, and Europe. A Reuters report said the project aims to connect Iraq’s oil-rich southern Grand Faw Port to Turkey, positioning the nation as a pivotal transit hub, significantly reducing travel time between Asia and Europe, potentially rivalling the Suez Canal.

Preparatory work is already underway with soil surveys being conducted to determine the optimal path for both road and rail connections. Radi noted that the newly established unit is also responsible for engaging with other countries to explore potential contributions to the realisation of the project.

“We perceive this project as a fundamental pillar for a sustainable non-oil economy, serving Iraq’s neighbours and the region while contributing to economic integration efforts,” said Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Shia Al Sudani while presenting the project to representatives from other countries.

Any country wishing to participate would have the opportunity to contribute to a portion of the project, the Iraqi parliament’s transport committed stated. The committee also estimated a project completion timeline of three to five years.

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The renovation of Pennsylvania Station’s Long Island Railroad (LIRR) Concourse in New York City has been completed at a cost of US $414mn according to Skanska.

The 27-month design-build project resulted in the concourse featuring widened corridor, raised ceiling heights, upgraded lighting and wayfinding, improved mechanical and electrical systems, and new architectural finishes.

“In order to best accommodate and enhance the commuting experience for the 600,000 passengers that utilise LIRR’s 33rd Street corridor daily, deciphering a path to improving the station’s circulation and traffic flow without disrupting daily train service was paramount,” said Michael Viggiano, Executive Vice President of Skanska’s East Coast civil operations.

He added, “We’re thrilled to be celebrating the completion of this project and to have played a crucial role in reconstructing one of New York City’s most highly trafficked transit hubs.”

The project was initially awarded out in 2020 by Penn District Station Developer with the goal of modernising and widening LIRR’s 33rd Street train hall corridor. Skanska, AECOM and SOM had to work out how to renovate the hall without disrupting passenger usage of the station each day.

Construction on the project began in January of 2021 and the team achieved substantial completion in March 2023.

“The most heavily used concourse of America’s busiest train station has been entirely transformed, both visually and functionally. The improvements make commuting more convenient, while also allowing this transit hub to have the capacity and accessibility to meet New York’s growing transportation needs. We’re proud to have worked with the MTA and our partners to broaden and revitalize the concourse while also minimizing impacts to LIRR commuters and the station’s operations,” concluded Thomas Prendergast, AECOM’s New York Metro Executive.

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Azizi Developments has announced that steady progress is being made on Creek Views II, a AED350m ($95.2m) luxury development in Dubai Healthcare City, with 50% of the work already completed.

A 587-unit residential development, Creek Views II boasts a mix of 116 studios, 436 one- and 35 two-bedroom apartments and is scheduled for handover in Q1 next year.

The Dubai developer said the project’s structure is now 95% complete, with blockwork being at 73%. The internal plaster and MEP have reached 61% and 26% respectively, while HVAC and tiling works are now at 25% and 14%.

External works stand at 20%, with overall finishes now being 16% complete. The total manpower has also been increased to 1,020.

According to Azizi, Creek Views II’s unique design represents Dubai’s journey from its traditional past to a modern, reinvented future.

Creek Views II features two swimming pools, a sauna, a steam room, a fully equipped gym, and a children’s play area, among a range of other premium amenities.

Giving a project update, CEO Farhad Azizi said: “The rapid construction progress we’re making at Creek Views II in Dubai Healthcare City excites us all. The contractor’s performance is exceptional, meeting our rigorous quality control and assurance standards while adhering to – and even exceeding – the project’s timeline for delivery. With its strategic location, outstanding design, impeccable construction, and wide array of premium amenities within and surrounding the building, Creek Views II is sure to enhance the lives of those will reside in it. This vision is shared by our stakeholders, and evident in the high demand exhibited by both local and international investors.”

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Sobha Realty has announced the pre-launch of its waterfront development – Sobha SeaHaven – Tower B – in the heart of Dubai Harbour.

Unveiling the project, Sobha said the new tower offers stunning views of Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab and Ain Dubai – as well as the city skyline – from its 10th to 30th floors.

Using a sleek form and sail-inspired design, drawing inspiration from graceful superyachts, the concept behind SeaHaven tower is that it will give the impression of movement against the powerful background of the sea.

Sobha SeaHaven – Tower B features a mix of one- to two-bedroom units as well as key amenities such as a health club with sauna and steam, indoor gym, multipurpose hall, indoor cinema, serviced club lounge and indoor games room.

Moreover, the tower offers outdoor amenities such as an infinity-edge leisure pool facing the harbour, a pool deck, a yoga/meditation/aerobics area, an outdoor gym, an outdoor movie theatre, a family zone with a barbecue area and an outdoor children’s play area.

Managing director Francis Alfred said this launch comes following the overwhelmingly warm investor response for Sobha SeaHaven – Tower A.

“Consistent with our brand ethos”, he said, “which is all about ‘The Art of the Detail’, the tower offers elegant fixtures, custom-made millwork and handcrafted cabinetry that distinguishes between ordinary and luxury living. Every aspect is created for enduring elegance. In fact, it offers twice the experience, owing to the spectacular sky bridge that connects the two SeaHaven towers. The influx of the world’s wealthiest has immensely benefitted Dubai’s market for luxury residences, and the emirate has positioned itself as a financial haven.”

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The 2023 Women in Construction Summit ED&I (WIC Summit) will focus on several key themes, and will take place on 31 October at the Habtoor Grand Resort JBR in Dubai.

According to the Middle East Consultant (MEC) editorial team, the key focuses for the 2023 edition are: overcoming engrained prejudice and proactively solving the gender gap in the built environment. It will also shine a light on the topic of multi-cultural teams, and how construction firms can build diverse organisations to reap significant productivity benefits.

The day-long event will feature several panel discussions and presentations, and will feature well respected personalities from across the built environment. Registration is complementary but mandatory for built environment professionals across the Middle East.

“ED&I: Women in Construction has become a rapidly-evolving event that sets out to be a real and powerful force in lobbying for practical and ethical change. This year, the event focuses heavily on key issues such as fair and equal remuneration across ethnicities – and will present cogent arguments from some of the region’s most innovative and largest employers,” says Paul Godfrey, Head of Content at Middle East Consultant.

He continues, “As always, discussions will be accompanied by strong, real-world case studies and strategic solutions that are proven to work in the world’s most challenging economies and contexts.”

The 2023 Women in Construction Summit ED&I is supported by:

Bronze sponsor: AESG
Supporting partners: Cundall, HKA, Omnium, TBH Consultancy

To discuss participating at the event as a speaker, contact conference producer Paul Godfrey on paul.godfrey@cpitrademedia.com. Sponsorship inquires can be addressed to Andy Pitois (andy.pitois@cpitrademedia.com).

To learn more about the 2023 Women in Construction Summit ED&I, please click here.

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Doka India has completed formwork and engineering on the construction of a 900m central cable-stayed bridge in Dwarka, India. The bridge has a total length of 2.5km and will comprise four lanes, measuring 29.6m in width. The project’s scope also includes 3.5km of retaining walls and 1.42km of approach on each side.

According to Doka, the bridge features the largest span of any cable-stayed bridge in India, with a total length of 500m between the two pylons. The structure is supported by 76 cables, and the most challenging aspect of the endeavour was said to be designing the curved pylons, which are inclined at 20.1 degrees at the centre, 22.6 degrees to the left, and 19 degrees to the right.

The firm noted that the bridge required a bespoke and complex formwork solution to meet the specific engineering requirements of the completed structure. Yogesh Patil, Doka India Group Leader Engineering, and Pramendra Singh, Doka India Project Engineer tackled the project, the firm stated.

In addition, the Doka Formwork Instructor team, comprising Ash Narayan Singh and Bijaya Kumar Swain, developed a solution that fulfilled the project’s requirements and conducted on-site training for other stakeholders, ensuring a safe and efficient construction process, the statement explained.

As part of the project’s product solution, Doka’s SKE50, SKE100, SKE100 plus, Top 50 and Shaft Platform were used throughout in order to support the timely execution.

“While several of our core products were used in the construction process, our key asset, particularly when it came to the pylons was our Automatic climbing formwork SKE plus. Designed to be completely crane-independent, and fully modular, we were able to work around the unique and complex shape of the pylon, while remaining protected both from the weather and height. As a fully hydraulic system, it also meant that a lot of time could be saved during repositioning,” concluded Singh.

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The contract to design the fourth bridge over the Panama Canal has been awarded to engineering and technology group Sener. The project scope covers the design and construction of a six-lane bridge that will cross the canal between Panama West and Panama City, in a bid to lighten traffic in those areas.

The main elements of the bridge include the two complex interchanges at either side of the canal, East (Albrook) and West (connection with the Pan-American Highway), as well as their respective double-decker access viaducts, with a total length of 2,450m, and the main cable-stayed bridge with a total length of 965m, a main span of 485m and a vertical clearance for passing ships of 75m.

Sener said it will work alongside Greisch and the Highway Planning and Design Institute (HDPI) on the project.

The project is said to be highly complex and that Sener’s experience of a cable-stayed bridge in Cebu, Philippines, for which the group was the lead engineering firm in the design consortium, played a role in them being awarded the contract by the Panama Cuarto Puente Consortium (CPCP).

Ricardo Sardinha, Global Highways Business Director at Sener stated, “It’s an honor to be part of this ambitious CPCP project, which will improve the lives of Panamanians with a unique structure that poses an engineering challenge. This is a comprehensive mega-project that will require the multidisciplinary capacity that characterises Sener.”

The structure of the main bridge will be designed by HPDI, in collaboration with Sener and Greisch, who are responsible for their special studies and supplementary projects. Sener will also design the interchanges and access viaducts, said a report.

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