Following a fire that was caused by a drone strike in an electrical generator located outside the inner perimeter of the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant in the Al Dhafra Region of Abu Dhabi on 17 May, the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) stated that it is closely monitoring the incident. FANR confirmed that the incident did not affect the safety of the nuclear plant or the readiness of its essential systems.

According to a report by WAM, there has been no release of radioactive material, while radiological safety levels remain within normal ranges. FANR said that there is no risk to the public or the environment, and no injuries were reported after the incident.

FANR stated it is maintaining close coordination with the plant operator and the relevant national authorities to verify all aspects of the incident and to confirm the continued integrity and readiness of plant systems. As part of its independent regulatory oversight, FANR confirmed it is assessing the event in accordance with established national procedures and maintaining continuous monitoring of radiological conditions and plant status.

In a statement, the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) said these attacks constitute a dangerous escalation, an unacceptable act of aggression, and a direct threat to the country’s security. The ministry stressed that the targeting of peaceful nuclear energy facilities is a flagrant violation of international law, the UN charter, and the principles of humanitarian law, given the grave risks such acts pose to civilians, the environment, as well as regional and international security.

Following the incident, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expressed the country’s condemnation in the strongest terms of the drone attack. In a statement carried by Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the Kingdom reaffirmed its categorical rejection of the blatant attacks, which threaten the region’s security and stability. It stressed its solidarity with the UAE and its support for all measures taken by the UAE to preserve its sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.

Several other countries including Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait, and Mauritania also strongly condemn the drone attack on the nuclear plant.

In a statement carried by Bahrain News Agency (BNA), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that the attack constitutes a flagrant violation of international law, the UN Charter, the principles of good neighbourliness, and UN Security Council Resolution 2817.

In a statement carried by Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry described the attack as a blatant violation of the sovereignty of the UAE and a serious threat to regional security and stability. The ministry stated that targeting peaceful nuclear energy facilities constitutes a clear breach of international law, international humanitarian law, and the UN Charter, given the grave risks it may pose to civilians, the environment, and regional and international security.

The Barakah Nuclear Power Plant is said to have been designed, licensed, and is operated in accordance with the highest international standards of nuclear safety and security. Multiple independent layers of protection are built into every aspect of the plant’s design and operation to ensure the safe and secure production of clean electricity under a wide range of conditions.

The WAM report noted that the protection of the public, workers, and the environment remains FANR’s highest priority. The authority said it will continue to provide rigorous and independent regulatory oversight to ensure the continued safe and secure operation of the nuclear power plant.

FANR encouraged the public to rely on official sources for accurate information and to avoid sharing rumours or unverified reports. Further updates will be provided as additional verified information becomes available, it confirmed.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Pullman Resort Al Marjan Island has embarked on the final phase of its transformation journey, signifying a significant milestone in its repositioning as a premier contemporary resort destination in the UAE. This transformation marks Phase 2 of a planned enhancement program, following the refurbishment of public areas completed last year.

The resort will temporarily close its doors in May and is anticipated to reopen in early 2027. This transformation is a crucial aspect of a broader repositioning strategy that aligns with the ever-evolving hospitality landscape of Ras Al Khaimah and the demand for contemporary resort experiences.

“This marks a defining moment in our transformation journey,” said Evan Harrington, Cluster General Manager. “Building on the successful upgrade of our public spaces, we are now advancing into the final phase of repositioning the resort to align with the future of Ras Al Khaimah as a leading resort destination. This is a deliberate investment to elevate the overall experience, ensuring we return to market with a stronger and more contemporary offering that meets evolving guest expectations.”

The current phase aims to upgrade guest rooms and corridors across all guest floors from level 1 upwards. This will ensure a fully integrated and elevated end-to-end guest experience that aligns with Pullman’s contemporary global brand direction, said the statement.

To expedite delivery and uphold the standards of quality and consistency, the resort has chosen a full closure over a phased renovation. This approach facilitates a transformation, minimising operational disruptions, and enabling the property to relaunch as a cohesive and re-imagined destination and aims to deliver a rejuvenated and elevated experience, it added.

Modernised rooms, enhanced comfort, and a unified design language that aligns with Pullman’s dynamic and contemporary positioning will be introduced. As the destination expands, the resort is actively working to meet the evolving expectations of today’s experience-driven travelers, the statement added.

During this transition period, guests and partners will receive continued support through alternative arrangements within the Accor network. Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island will serve as the active cluster resort, ensuring uninterrupted service and guest experiences.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Ellington Properties has commenced the handover of Ellington House II in Dubai Hills Estate, alongside Arbor View in Arjan, marking continued delivery across key residential communities. The handover comes at a time when delivery performance plays an increasingly important role in shaping market confidence, the developer said.

Recent market data has highlighted sustained YoY growth in both transaction volumes and values, driven largely by strong off-plan activity and continued investor confidence. At the same time, more than 8,000 new residential units were delivered during Q1 2026, supporting steady expansion in supply and helping to meet ongoing demand.

The handover of Ellington House II follows the earlier completion of Ellington House I, strengthening Ellington’s presence within Dubai Hills Estate and building on its growing portfolio within the master-planned community. Ellington House I has already demonstrated strong post-handover performance, with no major snagging observed at handover, reinforcing both build quality and long-term value. Over the past 3 months, the project has recorded rental prices approximately 28% higher than the market average price, it said.

At the same time, Ellington House III and IV continue to progress steadily, reflecting ongoing construction momentum and a disciplined approach to development across multiple phases, it added.

The completion of Arbor View represents Ellington’s first delivered project in Arjan, marking an important step in the company’s expansion into emerging residential locations across Dubai. The development introduces a design-led residential offering within a community that continues to attract end-users seeking well-connected and evolving neighbourhoods, the company said.

Joseph Thomas, Co-Founder of Ellington Properties commented, “The handover of Ellington House II and Arbor View reflects our continued focus on delivery and consistency across our developments. Markets will always evolve, but what remains constant is the importance of execution, particularly as buyers become more deliberate in their assessment of value. As we expand into new communities, our priority is to ensure that each project is completed with the same level of attention to design, quality, and detail, because maintaining that consistency is ultimately what builds long-term trust with our homeowners and investors.”

Source: MEConstructionNews

ALAIN has commenced construction of the Four Seasons Private Residences Abu Dhabi at Saadiyat Beach, marking a key milestone in the delivery of the capital’s most prestigious beachfront residential offering.

The development is an exclusive, gated beachfront community combining exceptional architecture, highly curated private living and Four Seasons’ service, set against the natural beauty of Saadiyat Beach.

An on-site ceremony on Saadiyat Island was attended by senior leadership and key project partners, including representatives from ALAIN, Four Seasons, Killa Design and Mirage Leisure and Development.

Expected to be completed by 2029, the development will comprise 116 residences, including ultra-luxury villas, beachfront mansions, suites and penthouses, with direct beach access and a comprehensive suite of bespoke amenities and services.

The project has demonstrated strong market traction, with the majority of residences sold to date and US $68.07mn in new villa sales recorded within one week. This sustained demand reflects continued confidence in Abu Dhabi and the UAE as a destination for ultra-high-net-worth individuals, reinforcing the project’s positioning within the region’s ultra-luxury residential market, said a statement.

The development has also achieved record pricing benchmarks, surpassing US $3,812per sqft, with total sales exceeding US $1.1bn since its launch less than a year ago, establishing it as a new benchmark for prestigious beachfront residential real estate in Abu Dhabi.

Strategically located on Saadiyat Island, the development offers a rare balance of seclusion and connectivity, with close proximity to the island’s cultural district, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club and key destinations including Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) and Zayed International Airport.

Khaled Al Khoori, Managing Director of ALAIN said, “Breaking ground on Four Seasons Private Residences Abu Dhabi at Saadiyat Beach marks a defining moment in delivering one of the region’s most exclusive beachfront communities. Designed for a highly discerning clientele, the project combines exceptional architecture, privacy and the renowned service of Four Seasons to create a truly distinctive residential offering. It reflects ALAIN’s continued focus on delivering world-class homes that set new benchmarks for quality, design and long-term value in Abu Dhabi.”

Source: MEConstructionNews

Hamish James has been appointed Managing Director of ISG Middle East. The move is said to mark a significant step in the company’s continued growth and strategic expansion.

In his new role, James will lead ISG Middle East’s operations, driving business performance, and advancing the delivery of complex, high-value projects across multiple sectors, the firm said in a statement.

“Hamish brings a wealth of international experience and a proven track record in delivering major projects and leading high-performing teams. His deep understanding of the region, combined with his operational expertise and collaborative leadership style, makes him exceptionally well placed to drive ISG Middle East’s next phase of growth. We are delighted to welcome him to the business,” said Andrew Craig, Chairman of ISG Middle East.

James commented, “I’m pleased to join ISG Middle East and lead such a talented and ambitious team. The market presents incredible opportunities for growth and innovation, and ISG is uniquely positioned to deliver outstanding outcomes for our clients. I look forward to building on the strong foundations already in place, strengthening partnerships, and continuing to deliver exceptional projects for our clients.”

James is said to be a highly accomplished construction and operations leader with extensive international experience in delivering complex, high-value projects across the built environment. He holds both a BSc Hons and MSc from Heriot-Watt University, reflecting his commitment to excellence and industry best practice.

He has built a strong track record in leading multidisciplinary teams, managing large-scale developments, and driving performance across all phases of project delivery. His expertise spans contract management, operational leadership, stakeholder engagement, and the successful execution of technically complex projects in fast-paced environments, the statement outlined.

Source: MEConstructionNews

ESNAAD Real Estate Development has announced the handover of ‘The Spark by ESNAAD’, its residential project in Mohammed Bin Rashid City, marking a key milestone in the company’s journey in Dubai’s real estate market.

The project comprises a ground floor, 5 residential floors, and a rooftop, and offers a total of 50 1-and-2-bedroom apartments. Designed for residents seeking a balance between comfort, functionality, and urban connectivity, the project reflects the company’s approach to developing thoughtfully designed homes that combine contemporary architecture, practical layouts, quality finishes, and long-term value for homeowners and investors, said a statement from the developer.

The building features a selection of lifestyle and wellness amenities, including a swimming pool, gym, sauna and steam room, co-working space, entrance lobby, cafe, bicycle parking, and electric vehicle charging stations. These facilities have been integrated to support a connected, practical, and community-oriented lifestyle for residents.

Situated in District 11, Mohammed Bin Rashid City, one of Dubai’s key residential destinations, The Spark by ESNAAD benefits from strong connectivity to key destinations including Downtown Dubai, Dubai Mall, DIFC, Meydan, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Marina, Kite Beach, and Dubai International Airport, with direct access via Dubai Al Ain Road, it added.

Ashraf Elbendari, CEO of ESNAAD noted, “The handover of The Spark by ESNAAD is an important milestone for our company and a reflection of our commitment to delivering high-quality residential developments in Dubai. From the beginning, our objective was to develop a project that combines design, functionality, and value in a strategic location. Today, we are pleased to see this vision translated into a completed development that is ready to welcome its owners and residents.”

He added, “Dubai’s real estate market remains robust, driven by ongoing demand and urban growth. The completion of The Spark by ESNAAD signals our strong confidence in the market and reaffirms our dedication to delivering quality residential developments that cater to evolving customer needs and provide lasting value.”

The project delivery comes at a time when Dubai’s property sector continues to maintain strong momentum, supported by the emirate’s long-term economic and urban development vision, established regulatory environment, and continued appeal as a global hub for living, business and investment.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Riyad Capital has signed an agreement to establish a US $400mn real estate fund in partnership with Princess Munira bint Abdullah bin Faisal Al Saud and the Naif AlRajhi Investment Company.

The fund will develop Riyadh’s Dar Al Salam project, which spans a land area of 32,000sqm and is designed as a mixed-use development comprising hospitality, office, residential, and retail components. The project is classified as a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD).

Located 250m from Al-Takhassusi Metro Station, the project is set to support the development of an integrated and sustainable destination that enhances quality of life and addresses the growing demand for high-quality developments in Riyadh.

Her Highness Princess Munira bint Abdullah bin Faisal Al Saud commented, “This project reflects the importance of the strategic location on Al-Takhassusi Road and the value of the partnership with Riyad Capital and Naif AlRajhi Investment Company to develop a project that aligns with the evolving urban landscape of Riyadh. We look forward to this development becoming a distinctive addition that supports quality of life and keeps pace with the city’s growing needs.”

Abdullah Abdulrahman Alshwer, CEO of Riyad Capital stated, “This project represents an extension of our presence in the real estate sector and marks a new step in developing distinctive destinations in strategic locations across Riyadh, supported by its prime location on Al-Takhassusi Road. This partnership with Her Highness Princess Munira bint Abdullah bin Faisal Al Saud and Naif AlRajhi Investment Company reflects an integrated model that combines development expertise with investment management capabilities, enabling the delivery of a project that elevates the concept of mixed-use developments and aligns with evolving market expectations.”

“This fund is part of our strategy to offer carefully structured investment opportunities built on strong fundamentals, enhancing value for investors. The project also represents Riyad Capital’s fourth Transit Oriented Development (TOD) project and contributes to supporting the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, particularly in urban development and improving quality of life,” explained Alshwer.

Naif Saleh AlRajhi, Chairman and CEO of Naif AlRajhi Investment Company added, “We see this project as a valuable addition to our real estate development portfolio, through which we aim to deliver a project that reflects high quality standards and meets the evolving expectations of the Riyadh market. This project also reflects our direction toward developing projects in prime locations, in partnership with Riyad Capital as a leading real estate investment firm, contributing to the delivery of an integrated experience aligned with Vision 2030.”

This project falls within Riyad Capital’s broader strategy to offer investment opportunities in the real estate sector and reinforce its position in highly competitive and strategic developments. The fund aims to establish an integrated urban destination aligned with Riyadh’s ongoing development momentum, with a strong focus on quality of life and sustainable returns. Through this step, the company reaffirms its commitment to delivering leading investment solutions that contribute to economic growth and maximise value for investors, said a statement.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Developer Azizi Developments said it is making substantial progress in constructing Burj Azizi. The project is advancing in both the raft foundation of the main tower and the automated car park building, which are among the most engineering-intensive phases in building the world’s second tallest tower, the developer noted.

The car park building, spans 9-basement levels and extends almost 30m below ground, and recently witnessed one of the substantial concrete pours of the project.

In just 40 hours, over 200 workers and 700 trucks delivered 7,000cu/m of concrete to construct the structure that will house Burj Azizi’s fully automated parking system. Simultaneously, work is underway on the tower’s raft foundation, a continuous concrete slab 5m thick, designed to bear and distribute the full load of the 725m, 140-story structure.

With 750 workers on-site daily, the team is diligently delivering this critical phase with precision and commitment to safety. They are laying the structural foundation from which Burj Azizi will rise. Worker welfare remains a top priority throughout the construction process, with all works carried out in accordance with the highest international standards, the firm said.

Group CEO Farhad Azizi said, “Burj Azizi is set to stand as the world’s second-tallest tower, a defining global symbol of Dubai. That ambition demands absolute rigor at every level, from concept to completion. The raft foundation, while unseen, is fundamental to the structure’s integrity. It is being delivered to the level of engineering precision this scale requires, setting the standard for everything that follows.”

Apartments range from 1-to-3 bedroom units, with ultra-luxury penthouses occupying the upper residential floors through their own dedicated lobbies. Amenity levels are spaced throughout the tower, offering residents pools, a spa, a gym and yoga center, a cinema, a games room, dining, and retail without ever leaving the building, the developer explained.

Higher still, an all-suite, 7-star hotel draws on seven cultural themes to set a new benchmark in luxury hospitality, featuring culturally inspired restaurants, an authentic Emirati dining concept, a luxury ballroom, and an exclusive beach club, it added.

The Burj Azizi project is led by Executive Director Kang Sang Ku, whose 30-year engineering career includes landmark developments such as the Burj Khalifa. Under his oversight, Azizi’s approach to a project of this magnitude begins long before construction reaches ground level.

For major developments, the developer conducts full-scale mock-ups and factory-based testing before a single unit goes up. Azizi’s vertically integrated approach also ensures complete control and consistent quality from concept through long-term operation, the statement concluded.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Kuwait is making progress in executing airport expansions and other significant projects as part of a stimulus package designed to alleviate the impact of regional hostilities.

Kuwaiti Finance Minister Yaqoub Al-Rifai presented a roadmap to stimulate economic activity within the country, enhance fiscal sustainability, and create more sustainable job opportunities for Kuwaiti nationals in the private sector.

He noted that the increased investment spending in the current budget stems from the expansion of strategic projects, most notably the new airport terminal, the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port, the expansion of the Umm Al-Hayman wastewater treatment plant, the Kabd North wastewater treatment plant, and the expansion of Kuwait International Airport (Terminal 2) and the development of its connecting roads.

These initiatives reflect support for infrastructure development, improved efficiency of public services, and enhanced productivity in vital sectors, he told the official Kuwaiti news agency KUNA.

Kuwait’s budget for the 2026-2037 fiscal year, which started on 1 April, forecast revenues at US $53.8bn and expenditure at $86.2bn, with a projected shortfall of $32.0bn. The finance ministry said early this year that the budget is based on a conservative average oil price of $57a barrel, far below the $68 price assumed in the 2025-2026 budget.

Capital spending was projected at around $10.3bn, nearly 12% of the total expenditure, it said, adding that it would be mostly allocated to those projects.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Modon has announced the sell-out of Tara Park, a residential development on Reem Island, with the project generating US $544mn in sales.

Tara Park comprises 6 residential towers with 834 apartments across 1-to-3-bedroom layouts. Connected to Reem Mall, the towers are interlinked by an active podium that connects residents to a wide range of amenities.

Tara Park also offers easy access to Fay Park, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi and Repton School, alongside proximity to Abu Dhabi’s international financial hub, Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), The Galleria Mall, and the wider city, the statement said.

Group CEO Bill O’Regan said, “Tara Park further validates Modon’s disciplined, market-driven approach, connecting a prime location and thoughtful place-making to generate sustainable urban growth and long-term value.”

“We continue to see strong demand across the market, which speaks to the confidence that local and international buyers continue to place in Abu Dhabi, particularly for projects where clear attention to quality of life supports future investment potential,” he stated.

Modon said the milestone reflects strong investor confidence and sustained demand, underscoring the emirate’s growing position as a global safe-haven investment destination.

Ibrahim Al Maghribi, CEO of Modon Real Estate said the sell-out of Tara Park sends a clear signal.

“Buyers are not hesitating. Buyers are making considered, long-term decisions. Tara Park was designed with clear buyer priorities and needs in mind, and the market response has validated that approach entirely,” he concluded.

Source: MEConstructionNews