Bentley Systems has announced the acquisitions of Talon Aerolytics and Pointivo. These aquisitions, completed in December 2025 are said to strengthen Bentley’s Asset Analytics portfolio, that comprises digital twin technologies and AI. These help owner-operators improve asset performance and resilience across infrastructure sectors.

Bentley Asset Analytics includes OpenTowerIQ for telecommunication towers and Blyncsy for road networks. These acquisitions extend Bentley’s offerings in both telecommunications and electric utilities, enabling integrated digital workflows that support global 5G deployments and grid modernisation. As next-generation networks and electrification imperatives drive demand, these capabilities empower infrastructure owners to digitise, analyse, and optimise assets at scale.

Talon provides solutions for site surveys, inspections, and asset digitisation across wireless telecom, broadband, and electric utilities. Its platform combines workflow automation, digital twins, and AI, enabling organisations to improve productivity for recurring tasks and inspections and gain insights into ongoing asset conditions.

“Over the past decade, Talon has established itself as a trusted intelligent collaboration platform for managing asset lifecycles and analysing infrastructure with our AI-enabled software. By joining Bentley Systems, we are poised to expand our global reach and enhance asset resilience through the integration of Bentley’s advanced engineering simulation capabilities,” says Rod Dir, CEO of Talon.

Klaus Metnitzer, Head of Deploy Execution Excellence and Serviceability for North America at Nokia notes, “At Nokia, delivering reliable and resilient networks for our customers and the communities they serve is a top priority. Our collaboration with Talon, leveraging their asset inspection and data intelligence capabilities alongside Nokia’s mobile network engineering and leadership, significantly strengthens this critical foundation.”

“Together, these solutions empower our customers to manage their infrastructure more efficiently, respond rapidly to challenges, and ensure continuous connectivity when it matters most. Talon’s integration with Bentley further enhances our innovation together across infrastructure management workflows to support an integrated grid ranging from towers to distribution poles,” concludes Metnitzer.

The acquisition of Pointivo’s technologies, including its intellectual property and technical expertise, provides additional horizontal capabilities for Bentley Asset Analytics, spanning drone data processing, AI-powered damage detection, and geolocation. These capabilities will further strengthen and differentiate Bentley’s platform for AI-powered insights.

Jacob Garland, Pointivo CTO remarks, “Our patented AI-driven inventory and damage detection technology was built to turn vast volumes of unstructured visual data into precise, trustworthy insights. Our team of experts has been at the forefront of advanced point-cloud processing, automated measurement and asset condition detection, and high-fidelity drone capture, all capabilities that naturally complement Bentley’s portfolio, including OpenTower iQ.”

“Now as part of Bentley, our innovations will enable faster, more accurate intelligence at scale, helping asset owners and operators to detect issues earlier and keep critical infrastructure performing at its best,” he adds.

James Lee, COO, Bentley Systems continues, “These acquisitions represent a major investment in scaling our Bentley Asset Analytics offering. By deploying AI across infrastructure sectors, we are enabling continuous inspections to improve operational performance and maintenance economics for asset owners.”

“Talon effectively pioneered this business model, validated by its profitable growth and pipeline of enterprise-wide contracts. This move marks an important milestone, adding to our technical and business momentum and strengthening our leadership in the burgeoning market of Asset Analytics,” adds Lee.

Werner Andre, CFO, Bentley Systems remarks, “These 2025 acquisitions substantially underscore our ongoing capital allocation priority in Asset Analytics, catalysing significant growth opportunities driven by AI within infrastructure operations and maintenance.”

“With a revenue of approximately $50mn in Asset Analytics, our platform consolidation investments are bolstering long-term double-digit growth in ARR, subscription revenues, and cash flows,” concludes Andre.

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Volvo Penta has demonstrated a battery platform that can power an electrification ecosystem, from industrial e-drivelines to mobile energy storage.

Italian forklift manufacturer Fantuzzi Team Material Handling (FTMH) and energy storage company TecnoGen jointly showed how Volvo Penta’s battery technology can power an electric forklift and simultaneously supply the battery system for its charging infrastructure.

Volvo Penta engineers have worked with FTMH to design a purpose-built, modular e-driveline capable of handling the intense duty cycles of material handling.

“Our engineering department faced the challenge of designing a new electric machine capable of meeting the demands of the market,” explained FTMH Technical Director Eugenio Ponzini.

“Working closely with Volvo Penta, we adopt their electromobility solution as our new electric driveline, specifically designed for high-performance forklifts. This will pave the way for the electrification of the entire FTMH range of forklifts and empty container handlers,” he said.

The modular design also gives FTMH a seamless path for future evolution as electrification advances. And Volvo Penta’s global service network played a decisive role. “We also chose Volvo Penta for their extensive service network, capable of providing support to our customers, wherever they are, perfectly aligning with FTMH’s DNA,” concluded Ponzini.

TecnoGen is also using Volvo Penta’s battery systems to accelerate into the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) market, highlighting how electrification supports emissions-free operations.

The TecnoGen BESS adopted Volvo Penta’s battery systems for energy storage, which is derived from the same battery packs found in Volvo trucks and construction equipment. They are built to be heavy-duty, mobile-friendly with high energy density, and come with IP67 durability, liquid cooling, and a shock-resistant design.

“The Volvo Penta BESS subsystem integrates seamlessly with our energy platform, offering us ever more innovative solutions,” said Plant Manager for Tecnogen Emanuele Rizzi. “That’s why our BESS solutions are highly customisable and adaptable to any application – from charging stations to peak shaving and much more.”

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Al-Futtaim Real Estate (AFRE) has announced the launch of Al Badia Villas, a new residential leasing project offering 107 smart and modern 3-to 5-bedroom homes. Delivered by Al-Futtaim Contracting, the project underscores AFRE’s ability to execute developments in-house, ensuring quality, design integrity and seamless management across every stage of the project lifecycle.

Set within three hectares of parks in the heart of Dubai Festival City, this development is smart by design and redefines high-end living by combining innovative features, sustainability, and connectivity, AFRE said.

Al Badia Villas come fully equipped with smart home technology, allowing residents to control lighting, HVAC, remote locking, video doorbells, and more. This is enabled by platforms such as Alexa, Apple Home, and Google Home. These functionalities, paired with layouts that optimise both interior and exterior spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, and high-quality finishes, mean the homes showcase a blend of functionality and design, the firm added.

Al Badia Villas are also equipped with solar power systems that offer savings of up to 30% on energy costs. Each villa is also equipped with EV charging provisions, allowing tenants to install their own charging stations, reinforcing Al-Futtaim Real Estate’s commitment to environmentally friendly, energy-efficient housing and electric mobility.

“Al Badia Villas reflect our vision of delivering not just premium housing but also a lifestyle of sustainability, innovation, and connectivity. We are proud to redefine villa living with cutting-edge features and thoughtful design that meet the needs of today’s residents,” said Spencer Lowres, Executive Director – Development at Al Futtaim. “Our focus has always been on creating communities where families thrive, and Al Badia Villas combine the best of contemporary design, smart home technology, and a deep commitment to sustainability. By integrating these elements, we offer residents a truly exceptional lifestyle in one of Dubai’s most sought-after locations.”

As part of the DFC community, Al Badia Villas are ideally positioned in proximity of a prime waterfront district. Residents will have access to amenities, schools, Dubai Festival City Mall, and transport points including Dubai International Airport. The development also features a nature trail and offers family-friendly amenities such as a children’s play area, outdoor fitness park, cycling tracks, dog-friendly walking trails and 24/7 security surveillance.

Al Badia Villas development will also feature a nature trail along which residents and visitors can scan QR codes as they wander, to discover more about the unique flora and fauna that thrive in the community. This initiative aligns with AFRE’s efforts to support the aims of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, and with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy.

“We expect Al Badia Villas to offer a transformative contribution to Dubai’s residential leasing market, adding to the already sought-after Al Badia Living by meeting the growing demand for premium villas in convenient, centrally located and well-established communities,” concluded Spencer Lowres.

Lowres continued, “Al Badia Villas are yet more evidence of Al-Futtaim’s strategic commitment to delivering premium, luxurious residential options. At Al-Futtaim, our central focus is the customer, designing every space with the occupant in mind and delivering construction quality that meets the expectations of a discerning tenant. This vertically integrated approach enables Al-Futtaim to provide hassle-free living, seamless maintenance, and exceptional service that gives every resident true peace of mind.”

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Al Ghurair Development has appointed Geo Foundation Group as the contractor responsible for the enabling works of The Weave, its design-led residential development in Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC). This appointment is said to mark a significant milestone as the company’s first premium freehold project transitions from planning to construction.

The project’s official launch six weeks ago was a success, with its first release selling out. Geo Foundation Group, a UAE-based specialist in geotechnical and foundation engineering, will oversee the entire enabling works for the development, the developer said.

Geo Foundation Group is said to be well-equipped to ensure the smooth execution of the project’s construction phase. Site works are set to commence immediately, paving the way for the development’s completion, it added.

Sultan Al Ghurair, Chief Executive Officer, Al Ghurair Development said, “The Weave is a project that demonstrates practical design and long-term value, and every partner we bring on board plays a crucial role in achieving that vision. Geo Foundation’s track record and technical expertise give us confidence as we move into the construction phase. This is where the project starts to take shape on the ground, and we are committed to setting a strong foundation for the development ahead.”

The Weave comprises 130 one-, two- and three-bedroom residences; the first release has already sold out, reflecting strong buyer response to the project’s design ethos and focus on thoughtful living, the developer noted.

Designed in collaboration with Australian architect Joe Adsett, marking his first Middle East project, The Weave is said to draw inspiration from ‘safafa’, the traditional weaving of palm fronds, reinterpreted through a contemporary façade of sculptural, interwoven balconies.

Each residence is shaped around natural light, privacy, and comfort, with access to a rooftop club offering wellness amenities, an infinity pool, a private cinema, and social spaces.

Located along the fringe of JVC, The Weave places residents within reach of Circle Mall, with easy access to Al Khail Road, while offering convenient access to key business hubs including Dubai Media City and Dubai Internet City, as well as both of the city’s international airports, the developer pointed out.

The Weave is the first project under Al Ghurair Development’s premium residential portfolio, and is set to be completed in 2028, with additional developments planned near Al Barari and The Wilds scheduled for launch in 2026. Further construction milestones will be announced as works progress, the statement concluded.

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The Rental Disputes Center (RDC) has received a substantial donation of US $817,000 from the Tarahum Charity Foundation to settle the financial obligations of 46 cases related to rental disputes in Dubai.

This initiative is part of the ongoing institutional collaboration between the two entities, established last year through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that was renewed in November 2025. It supports judicial and humanitarian efforts and launches joint initiatives aligned with Dubai’s strategy to expand community partnerships and strengthen the role of charitable institutions in public welfare.

The MoU aligns with the objectives of the Yad AlKhair Committee, which supports humanitarian cases burdened with rental obligations. Since then, the committee has enabled the implementation of humanitarian programs that promote solidarity, social responsibility, and aid those in need, in line with the Government of Dubai’s vision of promoting social justice and a culture of giving, the statement said.

These efforts exemplify the mission, objectives, and judicial framework of the RDC, which strike a balance between legal enforcement and compassionate considerations. The RDC translates directives into practical measures that uphold tolerance and assist individuals who have encountered difficulties in fulfilling their rental obligations, resulting in court rulings against them.

Judge Abdulqader Mousa Mohammed, Chairman of the Rental Disputes Center said, “This valuable support from Tarahum Charity Foundation underscores the depth of our partnership and reflects a firm commitment to serving the community and assisting individuals and families facing rental disputes. We are dedicated to maintaining a fair and humane judicial approach that embodies our leadership’s vision of mercy and alleviating the burdens placed on those in need. We will ensure that this contribution reaches the deserving recipients, providing them with a stable housing environment.”

Dr. Ahmed Thlak, General Director of Tarahum Charity Foundation added, “The donation represents an extension of Tarahum’s mission to empower targeted groups and contribute to family and social stability within Dubai. Through our collaboration with the RDC, we aim to make a tangible impact on the lives of beneficiaries facing real challenges. The Foundation remains committed to this approach, which signifies our values of giving and reinforces the role of institutional partnerships in serving the community.”

The centre will allocate the entire donation to assist social groups in addressing their rental obligations. This will be done in accordance with specific criteria to ensure that the aid reaches eligible citizens and residents in Dubai. The initiative aims to alleviate their financial burdens, enabling them to overcome their current circumstances and restore housing stability, it added.

The Tarahum Charity Foundation previously donated $592,000 to the RDC to cover the rental arrears of 70 individuals – by helping those burdened with rental installments, the initiative addresses their living challenges, the statement concluded.

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Riyadh’s real estate market is undergoing a transformative shift, influenced by strategic shifts, the acceleration of Vision 2030, and diverse sector opportunities says JLL. At JLL’s annual client event, industry leaders delved into the city’s macroeconomic backdrop and identified key trends shaping its office, residential, retail, hospitality, and emerging sectors such as AI infrastructure and transit-oriented development.

Saud Alsulaimani, Country Lead and Head of Capital Markets at JLL Saudi Arabia said, “Riyadh stands at the forefront of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, presenting unparalleled opportunities for investors and developers. The national priorities are continuously re-calibrating, ensuring strategic alignment of projects and fostering deeper private sector collaboration.”

He continued, “Regulatory shifts, such as the introduction of White Land Taxes and the rent freeze, are designed to stabilise markets and will ultimately drive a renewed focus on delivering premium assets. This dynamic environment, coupled with the pivot around construction costs in certain segments, is fundamentally reshaping the market landscape and accelerating progress towards our national objectives.”

The event highlighted significant impact of infrastructure projects, with Mireille Azzam Vidjen, Head of Consulting, Middle East and Africa at JLL, presenting Riyadh’s Transit Revolution. Riyadh Metro, a US $22.5bn investment spanning 176km with six lines and 84 stations, offers comprehensive geographic reach, covering 9.8km per 100 sqkm.

This strategic investment presents substantial opportunities for development of transit-oriented developments (TOD), with properties potentially commanding a premium of 20-30%. JLL underscored the importance of climate-responsive last-mile solutions to enhance accessibility in Riyadh’s hot climate.

Discussions further explored the AI infrastructure sector, with Gaurav Mathur, Head of Data Centres at JLL, highlighting KSA’s AI infrastructure boom. The Kingdom is rapidly scaling up its data centre capacity, with 2.7GW in the pipeline, transforming land and power planning into core national infrastructure. This AI expansion is positioned as an economic catalyst, driving growth across logistics, offices, hospitality, and residential sectors, solidifying KSA’s global standing as the region’s AI compute hub.

Maroun Deeb, Head of Projects and Development Services, KSA at JLL highlighted the construction market’s significant future projects pipeline. Valued at $100bn in 2025 with 5.4% annual growth projected through 2029, the sector actively manages complexities like skilled labor, material costs, and supply chain dynamics, leveraging BIM adoption for efficiency.

While tender price inflation is forecast at an annual average of +2% to -2%, proactive cost management is key. Despite these, the market maintains a strong outlook, particularly in Riyadh, bolstered by events like EXPO 2030, FIFA World Cup 2034, and KSIA, alongside legislative reforms and PIF’s private sector partnerships, creating powerful investment magnets.

With unprecedented strategic investments in game-changing infrastructure, technology, and emerging sectors, Riyadh is not just evolving; it’s forging its path to global expansion. This is made possible by dynamic regulatory frameworks and an unwavering focus on innovation and sustainability, the firm said.

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Developer Deyaar Development has officially broken ground on DWTN Residences, which is billed as a flagship project that aims to redefine urban living. The ceremony, attended by key executives and leadership team members, signifies the commencement of a new era in luxury housing, the developer said.

DWTN Residences boasts over 522 designed units, catering to diverse living preferences. These units include one-to-three bedroom apartments, duplexes, penthouses, and a unique Royal Palace at the pinnacle of the tower.

Deyaar’s vision extends beyond the physical structures. With over 75,000sqft of amenities integrated within the tower, Deyaar aims to transform the conventional skyscraper into a self-sustaining vertical community.

 Saeed Mohammed Al Qatami, CEO, Deyaar said, “DWTN Residences embodies our commitment to innovation and quality while addressing the needs of our end users. Rather than merely increasing our footprint, we are dedicated to building better, ensuring that each property delivers lasting value to residents, investors, and the wider community. Breaking ground on DWTN marks a bold new chapter for Deyaar. Our goal is to create spaces that inspire, nurture, and enrich the lives of future residents.”

As Deyaar expands its portfolio across the UAE, Al Qatami emphasised the company’s commitment to community centric developments that prioritise sustainability and design integrity. He further elaborated that this project embodies their vision for a future where every Deyaar property not only contributes to Dubai’s skyline but also enriches the lives of its inhabitants.

DWTN Residences, a project set to redefine luxury living in Dubai, aims to reflect the city’s vision, while creating a livable environment. As construction progresses, the project promises to be a hallmark of luxury and innovation, inviting residents to experience urban living like never before.

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Meraas has unveiled an expanded residential masterplan for Dubai Design District (d3), which aims to elevate d3 into one of Dubai’s key creative-led waterfront neighborhoods. The development will introduce canal-front living, cultural quarters, public green spaces, and walkable urban streets, creating a fully integrated community, the statement from Meraas said.

Located between Downtown Dubai and Dubai Creek, the enhanced masterplan spans 18m sqft of land. Designed and delivered by Meraas, the neighborhoods will blend residential, cultural, retail, and hospitality experiences.

This aligns with Dubai’s goal of solidifying its position as a global centre for design, innovation, and culture, as outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. The residential expansion responds to the growing market demand for design-led, well-connected waterfront communities, following the strong performance of recent launches and the increasing interest from both local and international buyers.

A defining feature of the new masterplan is the Design Line, a fully shaded, pedestrian-first spine that connects the entire district. Activated through public art, creative installations, community spaces, and landscaped green corridors, the Design Line supports walkable, human-centric living, the statement explained.

The masterplan also strives for LEED Silver community certification, emphasising sustainable mobility, enhanced connectivity, energy-efficient design, and integration with natural landscapes, including visual links to Dubai Creek and the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, it added.

The first area along the canal will introduce contemporary residences and boutique hospitality, set against an activated waterfront promenade. The urban core aims to unite residential offerings with curated retail and dining, integrated with d3’s established global creative ecosystem.

A third area will become the cultural heart of the community, featuring performance venues and mid-rise residences overlooking the d3 Bowl. Another area will offer a wellness-focused residential setting, defined by parks, sports facilities, and a mangrove-inspired landscape. Finally, the final area will become a center for creativity, with galleries, studios, and loft-style spaces designed to support collaboration, creativity, and artistic production.

Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate said, “Expanding the Dubai Design District masterplan into a fully integrated creative neighbourhood is a significant step in advancing the ambitions of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. This development strengthens Dubai Design District’s position as a global benchmark for design-focused urban living and reaffirms Dubai’s status as a destination of choice for long-term investment, talent and innovation.”

The momentum around the district continues to build. Meraas’ recent residential releases at d3 have garnered demand, with the sell-out of Atelis, a 280-unit waterfront tower, and the launch of The Edit, a three-tower development offering 557 design-led homes, the statement concluded.

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JLL has been appointed as the sole exclusive leasing agent for Capital Avenue in Riyadh. Developed by First Avenue Real Estate Development, Capital Avenue is an 13-storey business address that is expected to be completed in Q1 2026. The development is expected to be a significant contributor to Riyadh’s growth as a global capital of innovation and opportunity, as outlined in Vision 2030.

Capital Avenue stands out for its tenant-centric design and amenities, reflecting First Avenue’s commitment to going above and beyond for its occupants. The development, spanning 16,515sqm of total office area, will feature a dedicated gym, an outdoor cinema, and over 2,000sqm of expansive communal landscaped gardens. Additionally, there are 2,374sqm of private on-floor terraces, said a statement from JLL.

Atallah Alamri, Chief Asset Management Officer of First Avenue for Real Estate Development said, “Capital Avenue is our vision brought to life – a workspace designed not just for efficiency, but for inspiration and holistic well-being. Our partnership with JLL, a trusted advisor, ensures that this pioneering project reaches the right tenants who share our ambition to shape Riyadh’s future business landscape. We are confident that Capital Avenue’s unparalleled amenities and strategic location will set a new benchmark for premium office environments and foster value creation through inspiring developments and rewarding investments.”

Complementing its modern Salmani architecture and intelligent design, Capital Avenue also includes a café/lounge, eight high-speed elevators, and 329 dedicated parking spaces. These features ensure excellent natural light, efficient floorplates, and seamless convenience for tenants, it added.

John Campbell, Landlord Leasing Advisory Director at JLL KSA stated, “Capital Avenue represents the next generation of office environments, meticulously designed to meet the evolving demands of Riyadh’s dynamic business landscape. Our role as First Avenue’s trusted advisor underscores the market’s confidence in this project. Its superior amenities, efficient floorplates, and unparalleled location, just five minutes from New Murabba, 19 minutes from KAFD, and 18 minutes from King Khalid International Airport, will attract top-tier tenants seeking a truly integrated and inspiring workspace that supports productivity and well-being. We are proud to partner with First Avenue to bring this pivotal development to market.”

Strategically situated on King Salman Road in Al Qirawan, northern Riyadh, Capital Avenue provides convenient access to the city’s business districts and major highways. JLL’s appointment to this significant project underscores its dedication to promoting innovation and facilitating strategic partnerships that shape the dynamic evolution of Riyadh’s commercial real estate landscape, contributing to the Kingdom’s broader economic diversification objectives, the statement concluded.

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