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February 4, 2026 valueeng0

Hitachi Energy has said it is propelling a sustainable energy future by leveraging innovative power grid technologies, with digital at its core, in collaboration with Microsoft. The partnership will accelerate the digital transformation of crucial infrastructure, including electricity networks, transportation corridors, and heavy industrial operations by re-imagining the management and maintenance of critical assets.

Power grids, rail networks, manufacturing facilities, and other critical assets are often decades old and are under pressure from rising demand, extreme weather, and aging components. Failures within these systems can lead to severe cascading impacts, including widespread blackouts, safety incidents, environmental damage, and significant economic losses. By combining Hitachi Energy’s expertise in managing critical infrastructure with Microsoft’s artificial intelligence (AI) and data capabilities, operators can transition from reactive problem solving to proactive, comprehensive, data-driven asset lifecycle management addressing issues before they occur, the firm said in a statement.

Hitachi Energy is reinventing Hitachi Energy’s Ellipse Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) with Microsoft Dynamics 365, Microsoft Fabric, Microsoft 365 Copilot, and Microsoft Foundry, into a unified solution to manage data, analytics, and business operations, it added.

“Hitachi Energy has decades of experience building and operating the infrastructure that keeps modern life running,” said Massimo Danieli, Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Business Unit Grid Automation at Hitachi Energy. “Microsoft technology accelerates and enhances value to our Ellipse customers, while also bringing to market a solution that is unmatched in terms of IT and OT capabilities, offering essential service providers the ability to operate more intelligently and sustainably.”

“Critical Infrastructure operators need insight they can act on. Together with Hitachi Energy, we’re combining AI, cloud, and enterprise systems to help organizations move from reactive maintenance to predictive operations, improving reliability, safety, and long-term value for the infrastructure society depends on,” added Dayan Rodriguez, Corporate Vice President, Manufacturing and Mobility at Microsoft.

“Hitachi Solutions is proud to support this strategic reinvention and the tremendous impact it can have to drive new efficiencies into critical OT applications,” noted Soichiro Ohara, Chairman & CEO, Hitachi Solutions America. “Our role is to drive rapid deployment, integration, and business outcomes, ensuring customers realise the full potential of this industry-leading AI-driven solution.”

The solution utilises a combination of digital tools, including Microsoft Foundry, Fabric, Microsoft 365 Copilot, and Microsoft Dynamics 365, to integrate crucial datasets that support asset operations. This integration offers visibility of equipment across entire networks. By analysing supply chain, HR, and financial data, the solution can recommend the optimal time for maintenance. This ultimately enables organisations to operate and plan investments more efficiently. As a result, organisations can expect more reliable services, safer operations, and reduced emergency repairs, which are often the most costly and disruptive, the firm explained.

Traditionally, EAMs and supporting systems, like ERPs and CRMs, operate independently, making data silos. EAM data focuses on asset lifecycle management but can be strengthened when combined with supporting data, like financials, procurement, and workforce planning, often found in an ERP or CRM. This separation often leads to inefficiencies, data duplication, and limited visibility.

By integrating these systems, with Microsoft’s Agentic business applications, utilities gain: end-to-end visibility – a single source of truth for assets, financials, and operations enables better decision-making and compliance; optimised asset management – real-time data flow between EAM and ERP systems for accurate budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation; improved reliability and resilience – predictive maintenance powered by integrated data reduces downtime and extends asset life; streamlined processes – unified workflows eliminate redundancies, accelerate work orders, and improve customer service, and regulatory and sustainability alignment – integrated reporting supports environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals and regulatory compliance.

Hitachi Energy’s solution will be delivered through its ecosystem of system integrators, including Hitachi Solutions, a global systems integrator within the Hitachi Group. Hitachi Solutions will serve as the foundational advisor and partner in the implementation design process. The firm’s recent recognition as Microsoft Dynamics 365 (Finance) Partner of the Year, coupled with its experience in delivering large-scale, global digital transformations, will expedite adoption and ensure consistent, high-quality outcomes for end users, said the statement from Hitachi Energy.

For customers, this integration can become the backbone and strategic enabler of their digital transformation initiatives. It empowers organisations to transition from reactive to proactive operations, harness advanced analytics, and deliver value to customers while effectively managing costs. This integration transforms tools from passive repositories into dynamic, self-optimising platforms that consolidate data, automate processes, and drive enterprise-wide efficiency, it added.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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February 4, 2026 valueeng0

Umm Al Qura for Development & Construction Company, the owner, developer, and operator of the Masar Destination, has launched a unified digital platform for property ownership within the destination. The platform is available to approved developers and provides up-to-date information in both Arabic and English about all approved developers within the Masar Destination.

The initiative aims to enhance transparency and establish high levels of regulation within an integrated urban system. The Masar Destination, which spans over 1.2m sqm, stands as the largest urban project in Makkah, the company said.

The launch reflects the company’s responsible approach to urban development and its commitment to preserving the unique character of places and enhancing the quality of life.

Yasser Abuateek, Chief Executive Officer, Umm Al Qura for Development & Construction Company said, “The launch of the unified digital ownership platform at Masar is a strategic step toward enhancing transparency and innovation in the real estate sector. It highlights our commitment to providing an integrated urban experience that supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and contributes to positioning Makkah at the forefront of digital transformation. It also strengthens confidence in the real estate market by offering diverse options that meet residents’ needs within a modern and sustainable urban environment.”

Its diverse portfolio, encompassing hotels, residential and hotel apartments, and integrated commercial and medical facilities, aligns with the Kingdom’s vision for creating advanced urban environments that cater to both visitors and residents.

Recently, the project has secured development agreements with numerous developers and investment funds, resulting in a total investment exceeding US $16.8bn, encompassing acquisition and infrastructure costs. This investment solidifies Masar Destination’s position as one of the Kingdom’s investment destinations, the statement concluded.

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February 3, 2026 valueeng0

DMCC together with Sweid & Sweid have announced the launch of BAY360, a new mixed-use development and lifestyle destination in JLT.

Conceived as a neighbourhood and community hub, BAY360 will introduce a curated mix of everyday conveniences, offering essential retail, dining, wellness and recreational amenities. It forms part of DMCC’s wider upgrade of shared spaces across JLT and further elevates the quality, accessibility, and liveability of one of Dubai’s most established residential districts, said a statement.

BAY360 will be sensitively developed on a portion of the existing Lake D, with the majority of the lake retained as a defining feature of the community. The architectural approach prioritises harmony with the surrounding waterfront, enhancing pedestrian movement and activating the public realm, while preserving its open, lakeside character.

At the heart of BAY360 will be a mix of community essentials and lifestyle spaces. The destination will be anchored by a flagship 22,000sqft Spinneys supermarket offering residents a fresh and modern grocery experience. A collection of cafes and restaurants will offer new dining options, including lake-facing venues with outdoor terraces, while additional amenities will include medical facilities, lifestyle retail, rooftop padel courts, and family-friendly outdoor areas carefully designed to support everyday living. To support increased activity, BAY360 will also feature a dedicated underground car park with approximately 300 spaces.

Beyond the development itself, DMCC and Sweid & Sweid will deliver a series of enhancements around Lake D aimed at improving connectivity and accessibility across JLT. A redesigned pedestrian avenue will create a direct, legible route from the metro station to the far side of the lake, strengthening links between clusters and improving access to the JLT Park. Upgraded lake edges will introduce additional greenery, seating and walkways, reinforcing the relationship between residents and the waterfront.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman and CEO of DMCC said, “We are delighted to unveil BAY360, which reflects our continued focus on strengthening the quality, connectivity and long-term character of Jumeirah Lakes Towers. By introducing a carefully curated mix of essential retail, dining, wellness and recreational amenities, together with enhanced public spaces and improved accessibility, this development will meaningfully elevate the everyday experience across the community. As part of our wider programme in JLT, BAY360 supports our ambition to position JLT as one of Dubai’s most desirable and enduring neighbourhoods. We are pleased to partner once again with Sweid & Sweid on this landmark project, which will enhance the fabric of the community and contribute positively to the district for residents, businesses and visitors for years to come.”

Maher Sweid, Managing Partner of Sweid & Sweid commented, “BAY360 is our third project in JLT, following the completion of the Banyan Tree Residences and alongside the development of Sweid One. This investment is built on our deep conviction and continued commitment to the district and represents an important milestone towards enriching everyday life in JLT. DMCC has a clear ambition to upgrade its shared spaces, and this project is designed to support that vision by providing residents with direct access to quality dining, shopping, and convenience outlets at their doorstep. Our experience in delivering Grade-A commercial developments will help us shape this destination into a community asset for years to come, and we look forward to its completion towards the end of 2027.”

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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February 3, 2026 valueeng0

DAMAC Properties has unveiled its latest developments in the DAMAC Lagoons District, the Piazza Roma offices and Valencia apartments.

The launch event was held at Coca-Cola Arena, where the developers showcased the 24/7 live-work-play destination. DAMAC Mall serves as the anchor of the district, while water, culture, and community play a crucial role in its activation, said a statement.

Amira Sajwani, Managing Director, DAMAC Properties said, “DAMAC Lagoons District is our next step in building a community that optimises life. We’re bringing together two powerful ideas of waterfront wellbeing and a high-energy urban district, so residents and professionals can spend less time commuting and more time living. Valencia and Piazza Roma reflect a more human, more walkable Dubai: one where the best of the city is just minutes away.”

Lagoons District, which is located in Dubailand, is designed with decentralised cores in mind. It emphasises integrated, sustainable community planning, optimised travel distances, and a mall-integrated lifestyle. It aims to help working parents reclaim up to 20% more time by placing essential touchpoints of home, work, retail, wellness, and community spaces within a short walk.

Piazza Roma and Valencia are strategically positioned for fast and practical connectivity. They offer location with easy access to key Dubai destinations. For instance, DAMAC Mall is just 8 minutes away, Saudi German Clinic is 10 minutes, Trump International Golf Club is 17 minutes, Global Village is 19 minutes, and Al Maktoum Airport is 30 minutes, the statement noted.

The immersive experience will include an interactive digital boardwalk with LED paving, smart benches, and responsive art. There’s also a floating digital art gallery where projections drift across the water, in addition to smart pop-up retail capsules that transform week by week, keeping the destination fresh.

A mall-to-lagoon experience bridge creates a sensory transition using sound, scent, and visuals, leading to a striking flamenco stage, a purpose-built performance venue with sculptural lighting, professional-grade flooring, lighting, and acoustics for live dance and music. Wellness includes an aqua gym featuring submerged fitness stations, resistance zones, and water-based circuits, alongside outdoor yoga and spa areas cooled by a climate-smart water canopy, it continued.

Valencia aims to brings residential living into the heart of the district, and features curated amenities such as lagoon-front social spaces, wellness zones, and Mediterranean-style lounges inspired by Italian coastal living with rustic textures, soft lighting, and artisanal décor.

Piazza Roma meanwhile introduces workplaces just minutes away from retail, experiences, and the lagoon’s wellness ecosystem. It’s positioned to serve modern businesses seeking talent-friendly, experience-led workplaces within integrated communities.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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February 3, 2026 valueeng0

Turner & Townsend has been appointed by RAK Central to provide project management services for a large-scale mixed-use development in Ras Al-Khaimah (RAK), UAE. The development, spanning 3.1m sqft, will be a dynamic work-live-play destination, said a statement.

The project will feature commercial offices, including master developer Marjan’s new headquarters, retail and entertainment facilities, food and beverage outlets, three business hotels exceeding 1,000 keys, 4,000 residential apartments, and public areas spanning 5 interconnected buildings. The mixed-use destination is scheduled to open in 2027.

This landmark project aligns with RAK’s Vision 2030, which aims to attract over 3m annual visitors and establish RAK in sustainable tourism. The development will strive to achieve LEED Gold Certification by utilising a local supply chain, implementing advanced green building strategies, and incorporating sustainability principles such as energy-efficient systems, smart water management, and eco-friendly landscaping throughout both design and construction.

Michael McDaid, Project Director, Turner & Townsend in the United Arab Emirates said, “We will provide project management services for the construction delivery of RAK Central, covering 5 towers with podiums and below ground parking, extending our existing portfolio in RAK mirroring our commitment to the Northern Emirate. Upon completion, RAK Central will become a destination of choice for both world-renowned companies and the local community to thrive. We look forward to playing our part to make this vision a reality.”

The development will leverage advanced technology and digital solutions, including artificial intelligence (AI). Building information modeling (BIM) and other modern construction techniques will be employed throughout the entire design and construction process to ensure the development sets new standards within the UAE.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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February 3, 2026 valueeng0

Egis has been appointed to provide project management and construction supervision for the completion of Phase 1 of the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port, which is said to be one of Kuwait’s most strategically important national infrastructure projects. The company will ensure the project fulfils the Ministry of Public Works’ objective to bring the port to full operational readiness, enabling it to serve as a key trade gateway for Kuwait and the wider Upper Gulf region.

Located on Boubyan Island, Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port has long been envisioned as a cornerstone of Kuwait’s future trade and logistics network. The quay structures and backland reclamation for Phase 1 were completed in 2014, establishing the physical foundation of the port. The current phase focuses on completing the remaining marine, onshore, and operational works required to bring the port into full service for the first time, transforming a strategic asset into a functioning gateway for regional and international trade.

Under the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract led by China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), Egis will provide integrated oversight across the remaining Phase 1 works, including onshore and offshore construction, marine structures, port basin and channel works, utilities, operational buildings, and commissioning activities. The scope is designed to ensure that the port is completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest international standards.

China Communications Construction Company said, “Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port reflects a long-term national vision that requires world-class technical governance. We have integrated Egis into this project to leverage their deep expertise in independent design audit and construction oversight. Their role is vital in ensuring that every element of the remaining works is aligned with the standards, systems, and operational requirements expected of a major international port, in line with Kuwait Vision 2035.”

Egis’ role includes project management, construction supervision, contract administration, schedule and cost control, health and safety leadership, and structured support through testing, commissioning, and handover. Particular emphasis will be placed on governance, transparency, and risk management to protect long-term operational performance.

Khaled ElMir, Country Managing Director, Egis in Kuwait added, “Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port is critical as it sits at the intersection of Kuwait’s economic ambition and its responsibility to future generations. Our role is to help ensure that when the port opens, it does so with systems, processes, and confidence fully in place.”

The project team will work in close coordination with the Ministry of Public Works and CCCC, embedding early technical studies into design review processes and maintaining continuous oversight from mobilisation through final handover.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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February 2, 2026 valueeng0

Banyan Group Residences has unveiled Angsana Golf Residences Topaz, which is billed as an exceptional new branded residential development located within the Laguna Phuket integrated resort.

Designed to reflect the clarity, elegance, and rarity of the topaz gemstone, these branded residences combine contemporary design with Phuket’s cultural heritage to deliver a truly elevated tropical lifestyle.

Comprising 3 curved low-rise buildings, each divided into 2 interconnected blocks, the architecture is designed to harmonise with the surrounding landscape. Tropical muted tones and Sino-Portuguese design accents subtly reference Phuket’s heritage, creating a perfect balance of timeless elegance and modern sophistication.

The development offers 2- and 3-bedroom residences, including penthouses with private rooftop pools and alfresco dining areas, as well as ground-floor residences with exclusive garden access. Inspired by Phuket’s natural contours, the building’s graceful curved facades create a harmonious flow, while expansive terraces seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor living spaces.

Communal facilities include a signature rooftop ring shaped pool with panoramic 360-degree views of the golf course, mountains, and ocean, complemented by a peaceful ground-floor BBQ area nestled within lush tropical gardens – ideal for social gatherings and relaxation.

Located just minutes from Bang Tao Beach, at the heart of one of Phuket’s most sought-after coastal destinations, Angsana Golf Residences Topaz offers residents a vibrant community environment with exceptional lifestyle amenities as well as a strong long-term investment appeal.

Spanning over 1,000ac of pristine parkland, lagoons, and 5km of beachfront, Laguna Phuket provides residents with access to the award-winning Laguna Golf Phuket 18-hole course, luxury spas, fine dining establishments, the exclusive RAVA Beach Club and curated year round events.

A seamless transportation network of shuttle buses and boats ensures ease of movement and connectivity throughout the entire community.

Owners receive complimentary membership of Laguna Golf Phuket and The Sanctuary Club, Banyan Group’s signature program offering exclusive benefits at over 100 luxury properties worldwide, including discounts on dining and spa treatments.

Through the Laguna Advantage program, owners also enjoy complimentary first year property management, free insurance, and priority access to top international schools and healthcare benefits through BDMS Chivawattana membership. Flexible deferred payment plans further enhance this exceptional investment opportunity.

For owners seeking to generate rental income, Banyan Living offers a comprehensive rental management solution, which ensures professional upkeep of their property alongside strong returns, while delivering a worry free ownership experience.

With its design, prime location and resort lifestyle, Angsana Golf Residences Topaz establishes a new benchmark for tropical luxury living in Phuket, whether as a primary residence, a holiday home, or an investment property.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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February 2, 2026 valueeng0

NMDC Group has announced the expansion of its 170+ vessel fleet with an US $168mn self-propelled cutter suction dredger.

With an overall length of 148m and total installed power of 30,440kW, the vessel will further enhance NMDC’s marine dredging capacity, in light of the group’s growing backlog and awarded projects across multiple jurisdictions.

Officials from both NMDC Group and its subsidiary NMDC Dredging & Marine attended the keel laying ceremony held on 28 January 2026, which marked the beginning of construction. It is expected that the vessel will be completed and operational by 1Q 2027.

Eng. Yasser Zaghloul, Group CEO, NMDC Group said, “Celebrating a new vessel build is a symbolic reference to our operational expansion, capability enhancement, in addition to setting a new foundation for growth. This state-of-the-art dredger will join NMDC’s impressive fleet, enhance our operational capabilities and allow us to execute our projects with more efficiency. A core strategic directive at NMDC is to boost the group’s long-term capacity, deploy best-in-class assets, adopt the latest technology, and enhance our capacity to execute major coastal, port, energy, and offshore projects across our key international markets.”

In recent years, NMDC Group has been constantly enhancing its capacity to meet its growing pipeline of projects across multiple geographies. In 2025, NMDC Dredging & Marine grew its international footprint with projects in the Philippines, Oman, and Taiwan with NMDC Energy.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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February 2, 2026 valueeng0

The government of Ras Al Khaimah, represented by the public services department, signed a long-term Sewage Treatment Agreement (STA) with a consortium of companies, comprising Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE), TAQA Water Solutions and Saur International. The agreement covers the development of the Ras Al Khaimah Wastewater Treatment Plant, with a treatment capacity of 60,000 cu/m per day. Upon completion the project will serve a potential population of 300,000.

The public-private partnership (PPP) project will upgrade and expand the emirate’s wastewater infrastructure, reinforcing Ras Al Khaimah’s long-term vision for the sustainable development of communities and urban areas, environmental stewardship and the provision of high-quality public services.

This partnership is Ras Al Khaimah’s first PPP venture, marking a historic milestone that sets a strong precedent for future collaboration between the public and private sectors in essential infrastructure. The positive market response to the inaugural PPP reflects the confidence in the emirate’s transparent, well-governed model and its ability to attract long-term investment into resilient, sustainable assets, said a statement.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud Al Qasimi, Chairman of Ras Al Khaimah Public Services Department, affirmed that the signing of the agreement reflects Ras Al Khaimah’s approach to advancing vital projects that directly touch people’s lives, in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, to make the Emirate a hub of prosperity across all sectors. This is achieved through the development of advanced infrastructure that reinforces quality of life, supports resource sustainability and keeps pace with the requirements of urban growth.

Sheikh Ahmed added that Ras Al Khaimah’s developmental journey continues with confidence through operating models that strengthen partnerships with the private sector and leverage its expertise and innovation. He noted that such models help accelerate delivery, enhance operational efficiency and ensure the long-term sustainability of assets and services, guided by clear performance standards that deliver lasting value for society, the economy and the environment.

The agreement was signed at the EtihadWE Museum, located within the Saud bin Saqr Energy and Innovation Complex in the Al Barirat area in Ras Al Khaimah, and was joined by Jasim Hussain Thabet, Group CEO & MD of TAQA Group; H.E Eng. Khalid Fadl Al Ali, Director General of the Ras Al Khaimah Public Services Department; Eng. Yousef Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of Etihad Water and Electricity; Eng. Ahmed Al Shamsi, CEO of TAQA Water Solutions; and Christophe Tanguy, CEO of Saur Middle East.

His Excellency Engineer Khalid Fadel Al Ali, Director General of the Public Services Department, said that the agreement represents a qualitative leap in modernising Ras Al Khaimah’s wastewater system, delivering a direct positive impact on the community and quality of life. He stated that the project will improve treatment efficiency, strengthen operational reliability and enhance infrastructure readiness to meet the demands of urban expansion, supporting sustainable growth, protecting the environment and raising the standard of services provided to residents.

He added that the project carries added importance as Ras Al Khaimah’s first public-private partnership, establishing a practical model for collaboration in essential infrastructure projects and opening broader horizons for long-term investment in resilient and sustainable assets. He explained t the PPP model contributes to improved service quality and faster delivery, guided by clear performance standards that support sustainable development and enhance quality of life across the community.

Eng. Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of Etihad Water and Electricity said, “The signing of this agreement represents a practical step towards strengthening the resilience and readiness of Ras Al Khaimah’s wastewater infrastructure, while supporting long-term water security objectives. Through this public-private partnership, the Government is bringing together public sector leadership with a consortium that has proven capabilities in project development and operations.”

“We are proud of this collaboration, which reflects an effective partnership model that enables the delivery of resilient and sustainable assets, enhances public service quality, supports urban growth, and ensures long-term benefits for the community and the environment,” he added.

Eng. Ahmed Al Shamsi, CEO of TAQA Water Solutions added, “This project represents a significant milestone for TAQA Water Solutions, marking our first major undertaking in distributing the recycled water. By managing the entire process, from collecting and treatment to distribution, we are maximising the value of water resources, while supporting Ras Al Khaimah’s goals to continue positioning itself as a leading sustainable tourism destination and a vibrant economic hub. The project reflects our commitment to delivering robust infrastructure that enables long-term sustainable growth and promotes the circular economy.”

“TAQA Water Solutions will collect wastewater at the Ras Al Khaimah Wastewater Treatment Plant through a 6.3km gravity pipeline and distribute the recycled water via a network extending up to 26km. This will allow for the reuse of 100% of recycled water across vital areas including irrigation and cooling, in line with the UAE 2030 Vision, The UAE’s Net Zero 2050 Strategy and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals related to sustainable cities and communities,” he added.

Christophe Tanguy, CEO of Saur International – Middle East commented, “We are truly honoured to be part of the consortium delivering the RAKWA wastewater project. It underscores our commitment to supporting Ras Al Khaimah’s infrastructure ambitions through long-term, performance-driven partnerships. This project aligns closely with our expertise in operating integrated wastewater systems where reliability, environmental performance and regulatory compliance are fundamental.”

The partnership project encompasses the development of an integrated wastewater treatment plant employing state-of-the-art technologies, as well as the establishment of supporting infrastructure, including a treated wastewater transmission network.

The project will be delivered through a Build–Own–Operate–Transfer (BOOT) model, under which the project company formed by the consortium will assume responsibility for the design, financing, construction, commissioning, insurance, ownership, operation, and maintenance of the plant and its associated assets throughout the project lifecycle. At the conclusion of the partnership term, ownership of all project assets will be transferred to the Department of Public Services, in line with established public–private partnership frameworks and best international practices.

The project is expected to support sustainable urban development, strengthen environmental infrastructure, and advance public sector objectives related to efficiency, service integration, and long-term value creation for the community.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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January 30, 2026 valueeng0

Construction of the Mukaab mega project, which was destined to be the centre of the New Murabba mixed-use development in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia has been suspended. The New Murabba project is being developed by the New Murabba Development Company (NDMC), a firm owned by the Public Investment Fund.

Development of the remaining real estate in the mixed-use development is set to continue, according to a report by Reuters, citing unnamed sources who are familiar with the project’s plans.

The Mukaab was first announced in February 2023 and was planned to be a 400m by 400m metal cube containing a dome with an artificial intelligence (AI) powered display that visitors could observe from an over 300m tall ziggurat inside it. The display was expected to be the largest on the planet, while the Mukaab itself was expected to be the world’s largest single-built structure, offering 2m sqm of interior floor space.

The report said that work beyond soil excavation and pilings has been suspended, following a move by Saudi authorities to pivot from futuristic projects to initiatives that are more pressing and potentially profitable, such as the World Expo 2030 and 2034 FIFA World Cup. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) was also said to be adjusting its strategy in October 2025, with a focus on logistics, mining and AI.

In early 2025, The Line in NEOM, which was originally envisioned as a 170km long, 500m tall metropolis that would eventually accommodate 9m people was also scaled back. Recent reports have stated that the planned city project may now become an AI data centre hub.

The report also said that the Kingdom is still currently conducting a review of several Vision 2030 mega projects.

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Source: MEConstructionNews