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March 4, 2025 valueeng0

DataVolt and NEOM have signed a US $5bn agreement to develop a 1.5GW data center campus in NEOM’s Oxagon industrial area. The first 300MW phase of the site will reportedly go live in 2028. Oxagon is a reimagined industrial city in NEOM that promises to embed robotics, automation and artificial intelligence in its infrastructure, all powered by sustainable energy.

It promises to integrate a wide range of computing densities and energy-efficient architecture to address the challenges posed by traditional data centres, which place high demand on local electricity grids. Oxagon will lease the land to DataVolt for the development of the facility and provide infrastructure support to the data centre operator.

Rajit Nanda, CEO of DataVolt said, “The Kingdom’s strategic location, coupled with its abundant green energy resources, aligns perfectly with DataVolt’s mission in providing state-of-the-art sustainable data centres. This project marks a significant milestone in advancing the Kingdom’s leadership as a digital powerhouse in the region.”

Vishal Wanchoo, CEO of Oxagon added, “The agreement with DataVolt highlights the potential impact of the sustainable infrastructure Oxagon offers its tenants, and sets the foundations for the first green-AI workload to come on-stream in KSA along with the necessary computing power for regional and global impact.”

Their ambition is for the facility to be powered entirely by renewable energy, as well as employing advanced cooling technologies. Its location on the Red Sea coast means that it will also have access to sub-sea cables providing fibre connectivity.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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March 3, 2025 valueeng0

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed a US $1.6bn agreement with Dubai Holding, aimed at boosting infrastructure development across key communities in the emirate. Project delivery will focus largely on Dubai Islands, Jumeirah Village Triangle, Palm Gateway, Al Furjan, Jumeirah Park, Arjan, Majan, Liwan (Phase 1), Nad Al Hamar, Villanova, and Serena.

As part of the agreement, bridges and roads will be developed to improve access points for five key Dubai Holding developments: Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai Production City, Business Bay, Palm Jumeirah, and International City (Phase 3).

The agreement was signed by Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA and Amit Kaushal, Group CEO of Dubai Holding, in the presence of  Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, and Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Holding, as well as other senior officials.

The agreement specifies four additional access points for Jumeirah Village Circle, featuring grade-separated interchanges designed to double the capacity of the area’s entry and exit points. These enhancements are projected to reduce travel time on internal roads and access points by 70%, while also improving traffic safety and ensuring seamless traffic flow at intersections.

Additionally, new bridges will be constructed to improve access to Dubai Production City from Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, reducing travel time on entry and exit points, as well as improving traffic flow on internal roads by 50%, it stated. Upgrades to internal roads in the Towers Area will help reduce travel time by 30% across entry and exit points and internal routes.

According to the RTA, there will be surface improvements at intersections leading to Business Bay from Sheikh Zayed Road, as well as the construction of a pedestrian bridge at the Business Bay intersection with First Al Khail Road, designed to enhance pedestrian safety and optimise traffic flow.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum explained that this work reflects the shared vision of a city that is not only innovative but also seamlessly accessible. “Through projects like these, Dubai Holding reaffirms its commitment to shaping the future of the emirate by developing world-class communities and infrastructure that enhance connectivity, mobility, and quality of life for all who call Dubai home. Together with RTA, we are reinforcing the position of Dubai as a leading global hub in urban innovation.”

There will also be additional acceleration and deceleration lanes along Palm Jumeirah, spanning six locations to optimise traffic flow. Two pedestrian bridges will also be built to replace existing crossings, enhancing mobility and ensuring pedestrian safety while reducing travel time within Palm Jumeirah by 40%.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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March 3, 2025 valueeng0

TK Elevator (TKE) has brought its Universal Service platform to Thailand, aimed at metro and railway systems in Bangkok. This service solution offers OEM-level support for mobility equipment of all brands, safe movement for people and businesses across the globe, said a statement from the company.

Since 2010, TKE has a strong presence in Thailand’s metro projects through both new installations and service offerings. Currently, TKE provides maintenance service for over 740 units serving metro and railway locations in Bangkok, including elevators and escalators supplied and installed by TKE and third-party brands. One of the key highlights of these service contracts is their duration. The longest contract extends for 28 years, reflecting a strong confidence in TKE’s outstanding service and quality.

“Universal Service is our answer to the growing service needs for mobility equipment in rapidly developing cities such as Bangkok. Consolidating the service of mobility products from different periods and manufacturers helps our customers relieve administrative burden and achieve cost savings. With the engineering capabilities of our International Technical Service, we are the ideal partner for railway and metro operators worldwide,” said Jürgen Böhler, CEO Asia Pacific at TK Elevator.

Universal Service by TK Elevator is an industry support platform offering proactive, flexible, and comprehensive elevator service coverage worldwide. As an entrusted partner, with a global network of 25,000 trained technicians and over 1,000 service centers across 100+ countries, TKE ensures portfolio-wide uptime through a combination of remote and on-site support.

Surapong Laoha-Unya, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer of BTS remarked, “TK Elevator’s proven track record and comprehensive capabilities have consistently ensured the safety and mobility of our passengers. With our shared vision for excellence, we are confident that partnering with TKE will provide us with the most synergistic benefits over the long term.”

“We are proud of being trusted by our partners to service a large variety of equipment across different metro and railway stations. By providing world-class mobility solutions to residential, commercial and infrastructure projects, we are dedicated to keeping Thailand and its people moving safely,” commented Chaironnarit Sawatlaor, Managing Director, Thailand at TK Elevator.

Third-party capabilities, powered by International Technical Services (ITS) in Dubai and globally, allow servicing any brand and various types of multi-brand vertical transportation equipment, such as elevators and escalators, to the highest industry standards. This is said to ensure prompt assistance anywhere in the world. Throughout this process, TKE prioritises personal safety and sustainability, minimising environmental impact through equipment longevity and innovative logistics, the company said.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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March 3, 2025 valueeng0

AMEA Power has announced the official groundbreaking of a 50MW solar photovoltaic (PV) project in the Ivory Coast. The US $60mn project is being financed by FMO and DEG, and will support the government’s goal of increasing the share of renewable energy in its electricity mix to 45% by 2030, said a statement.

The Bondoukou Solar PV plant will generate 85GWh of clean energy annually, enough to power 358,000 households, while offsetting more than 52,000t of CO2 emissions. The project is being implemented by AMEA Goutougo, a project company registered in Ivory Coast and fully owned by AMEA Power. The project is located in Bondoukou, in the north-eastern region of Gontougo.

Hussain Al Nowais, Chairman of AMEA Power said, “Today, we turn vision into reality. The 50MW solar plant is a landmark achievement for Ivory Coast and a testament to AMEA Power’s dedication to delivering clean energy solutions across Africa. This groundbreaking ceremony is an important symbol of partnership, we are proud to partner with the government and the people of Ivory Coast on this transformative journey.”

Once commissioned, it will be AMEA Power’s first operational asset in the country. The company also has an additional 50MW solar PV project in advanced development in Ivory Coast.

AMEA Power said that it is dedicated to driving socio-economic development and will work closely with local communities. Through its ‘Community Investment and Development Programs’ the company will launch key social initiatives focused on gender equality, education, and skills training, ensuring a lasting positive impact.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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March 3, 2025 valueeng0

Luxury real estate developer BEYOND Developments has launched its third signature project within the eight mn sqft master-planned development at Dubai Maritime City (DMC). The achievement comes six months after the developer was established and is said to reinforce the company’s growth and investor’s confidence in its developments.

Adil Taqi, Chief Executive Officer, BEYOND Developments said: “Dubai continues to prove itself as one of the most attractive real estate investment and living destination globally, supported by visionary leadership, robust infrastructure and a forward-thinking regulatory environment. The appetite from local, regional and international investors for high-quality waterfront development remains strong, and the success of our projects at Dubai Maritime City is a testament to this growing demand.”

“Aligned with the Dubai Real Estate Sector Strategy 2033, this project strengthens the emirate’s standing as a premier investment and liveable destination. Sensia offers an elevated waterfront lifestyle merging urban energy with the serenity of the Arabian Sea. With every launch, BEYOND continues to push the boundaries, creating spaces that are not just homes, but experiences tailored for the modern investor and homeowner. This is a bold step forward in design, waterfront luxury, and innovation,” he added.

Designed by Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA), Sensia’s distinctive architecture features angled floor plates that enhance privacy while offering 360-degree panoramic views, optimising sunrise-to-sunset vistas of the Dubai skyline and Arabian Gulf. Interiors by Design World Partnership (DWP) bring a refined aesthetic, using warm, natural textures and contemporary finishes to elevate the living experience, said a statement.

The 36-storey tower is due for completion in Q1 2029 and offers 275 residences, including one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, three-bedroom garden duplexes, and a signature penthouse with waterfront views. With direct access to dining experiences on the ground floor and a waterfront promenade, Sensia is said to offer a balance between urban convenience and coastal living. A resort-style amenity package includes a waterfront drop-off and Mediterranean landscaped driveways. Sensia will also have a gymnasium, yoga studios, and gardens by the seaside, the statement concluded.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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February 28, 2025 valueeng0

Hazza Zaal, CEO of Al Barari has launched a new real estate venture. Elemental aims to redefine urban living and aims to deliver high-quality living spaces that prioritise wellness, innovation, and a strong connection to nature.

The first residential project being launched under the new entity, Elemental 22, is designed to offer a complete, all-in-one living experience in Jumeirah Garden City. Set in a low-rise, low-density neighborhood, the building integrates greenery, open spaces, and a sense of warmth that makes it feel like home, the developer said.

“We are excited to introduce Elemental, an innovative development company that embodies our commitment to creating thoughtfully designed, wellness-focused communities, inspired by nature,” said Hazza Zaal, Founder of Elemental Developments and CEO of Al Barari.

“Elemental represents a new chapter in urban living where nature and community converge to offer residents an unparalleled lifestyle. We are confident that it will be a great addition to the UAE’s ever-evolving real estate landscape,” he added.

Residents at Elemental 22 will have everything they need in one space, with  amenities designed to enhance well-being and everyday life. From a fully equipped gym and recovery rooms with sauna and steam rooms to The Greenhouse, a nature-filled co-working space, a kids’ club, a home cinema, and two swimming pools, Elemental 22 is a home built around balance, comfort, and connection, the firm said.

At the heart of the building is The Mill Café, a space where residents can enjoy freshly baked goods, quality coffee, and a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere. More than just a café, it’s an extension of home, a place to start the morning, unwind in the afternoon, or catch up with friends over something delicious, it added.

The project is being developed in Jumeirah Garden City, which is said to be a community with a strong emphasis on outdoor living. Residents will have access to the park in the neighborhood, green spaces, walking trails, a football pitch, and a padel court.

The company has another innovative project in the pipeline, continuing their mission of creating spaces that are thoughtful, warm, and connected to both nature and community, the statement concluded.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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February 26, 2025 valueeng0

Dubai Taxi Company (DTC) signed a five-year strategic partnership with Dubai Airports, to be the exclusive provider of taxi services at Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC), reinforcing its position as the leading provider of mobility services in Dubai.

Mansoor Alfalasi, CEO of Dubai Taxi Company and Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports signed the agreement in the presence of senior officials.

The partnership is said to be a testament to the long-standing relationship between DTC and Dubai Airports to service passengers and visitors at Dubai Airports, which welcomed 93mn guests across both airports in 2024, resulting in 6mn limousine and taxi trips in 2024. Taxi and limousine annual trips from the airports are expected to reach over 8mn by 2029, with revenues projected to reach US $680.5bn over the five-year period.

DTC’s long-standing partnership with Dubai Airports began in 1997 when the company provided taxi services at the airport with a modest fleet of just 100 taxis. Subsequently, DTC has grown into a leading mobility provider, and taxi operator, by market share, in Dubai. DTC operates a airport fleet of 900 taxis, including 700 dedicated airport taxis, in addition to specialised pink taxis catering to families, women, and children, as well as accessible vehicles designed to serve People of Determination. The company’s fleet also features around 500 premium limousines, providing premium transportation services, said a statement from the company.

As part of its commitment to innovation and international standards, the taxi and limousine services at Dubai Airports are equipped with smart dispatch systems and advanced instant booking technologies accessible through user friendly apps. These systems allow passengers to easily and quickly book taxis and provide cashless payment options. The vehicles are monitored by DTC’s control centre, ensuring safe, efficient, and timely transportation for all customers.

Mansoor Alfalasi, CEO of DTC said, “The agreement demonstrates the strength of our relationship with Dubai Airports, which began in 1997. As the exclusive provider of taxi services at Dubai’s airports for more than two decades, we are committed to showcasing Dubai at its best to all passengers. With a team of well-trained drivers backed by sophisticated technology, DTC is committed to enhancing its operational capacity to align with the rapid growth and development at Dubai Airports, ensuring the continued delivery of world-class transportation services.”

Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports added, “Our goal at Dubai Airports is to create an effortless and seamless experience for every guest, from the moment they arrive at our airports to the moment they depart. Reliable, efficient, and well-integrated ground transport is a crucial part of that equation. This partnership with Dubai Taxi Company ensures that guests at DXB and DWC experience world-class mobility solutions from the road to the air, reflecting the speed, convenience, and service excellence we uphold across the entire airport journey.”

In 2024, DTC doubled its taxi fleet at Dubai Airports, this expansion aimed to support airport transportation services and trip numbers by 30%, helping reduce waiting times and improve service speed, while reducing the reliance on having to divert regular city fleet towards the airport. The company attaches attention to building strong partnerships and providing mobility solutions that reflect the community’s aspirations and Dubai’s future vision, the statement concluded.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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February 26, 2025 valueeng0

NMDC Energy has inaugurated an advanced fabrication yard in Ras Al Khair, Saudi Arabia, representing the next phase of its regional and global growth for the company. Equipped with features in automation and digitalisation, it also incorporates the latest fabrication processes.

The 400,000sqm yard, part of the Ras Al Khair Special Economic Zone, will provide offshore facilities fabrication as well as onshore modularisation. The fabrication yard will form part of an end-to-end solution in a wider a maritime and offshore cluster, which is designed to support the energy industry. NMDC Energy will provide productive and safe facilities, and it will embed the latest technologies to deliver efficiencies.

Over the past five years, NMDC Energy has invested in the Saudi economy and industry, to support positive economic impact in Saudi Arabia, leading to NMDC Energy’s current In-Kingdom Total Value Add (iktva) score of 39% in 2025. Saudi Arabia now accounts for 38% of NMDC Energy’s total revenue, reflecting the organisation’s activities in the country. The company also plans to continue its support through localisation efforts including the Ras Al Khair yard, and developing its capabilities and operations, in order to raise its iktva score to 51% by 2028.

Mohamed Hamad Ghanem Hamad Almehairi, Chairman of NMDC Energy said, “The inauguration of Ras Al Khair represents a bold and exciting new chapter for energy cooperation for both the UAE and Saudi Arabia, which will bring vast tangible benefits to both nations. We’re proud that NMDC Energy will serve as an engine of economic development by powering priority industries, enabling businesses, and advancing solutions across the energy value chain. We foresee vast opportunities to collaborate and to pursue projects in areas that will maximise the value of the resources in both our nations, as well as ensure that the UAE and KSA remain leaders in the regional energy transition.”

Yasser Zaghloul, CEO of NMDC Group added, “Saudi Arabia is pushing forward at a relentless speed to develop efficient, competitive, and responsive port and manufacturing ecosystems that will enhance the nation’s economic growth to ensure it keeps pace with global developments. At NMDC, we’re playing a pivotal role in these efforts, and we’re helping to strengthen UAE-KSA collaboration across vital sectors.”

“We understand that energy, logistics, and manufacturing touch every aspect of the economy and society. These sectors link producers to markets, workers to jobs, and vocational trainees to institutes, and more importantly they link Saudi Arabia to the rest of the world. With Ras Al Khair, NMDC Energy is helping to strengthen these vital links, and we’re playing a prominent role in ensuring that KSA remains plugged into the global marketplace,” he added.

Ahmed Al Dhaheri, CEO of NMDC Energy commented: “At NMDC Energy we understand that the essence of Saudi Vision 2030 is that it seeks a strong, thriving and stable Saudi Arabia. That’s why we’re looking forward to bringing 51 years of experience to create new opportunities for prosperity for both KSA and the UAE, as well as supporting new and existing clients across the wider region.”

He added, “Our long-term agreement with Aramco offers the potential to accelerate growth and to create new opportunities, benefiting both our countries as well as the wider region. Through our projects and collaborations in Ras Al Khair, we can build upon Saudi’s national priorities by helping to diversify the national economy, creating skilled jobs and harnessing the full potential of the skilled labor force.”

Saudi Arabia has been a strong supporter for this large-scale project, which opens a new phase for UAE-KSA economic collaboration. Several key stakeholders in Saudi Arabia have played a role in the development of NMDC Energy’s yard, such as Aramco, the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani), and both the Ministry of Energy and Ministry of Investment in Saudi Arabia. NMDC Energy’s Ras Al Khair yard will encourage industry by serving as an engine for growth, investment, trade, and employment within the Ras Al Khair region and beyond.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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February 26, 2025 valueeng0

The American Concrete Institute (ACI) announced the release of the 2025 edition of its flagship document, ACI CODE-318-25: Building Code for Structural Concrete – Code Requirements and Commentary. This updated edition is now available to ACI 318 PLUS platform subscribers and will be offered for purchase in print and digital formats through the ACI Store in early Spring 2025.

ACI CODE-318-25 remains the definitive resource for the materials, design, and detailing requirements of structural concrete buildings and non-building structures. Developed through an extensive process, the document addresses all major structural systems, including cast-in-place, precast, shotcrete, plain, non-prestressed, pre-stressed, and composite construction.

This latest edition introduces significant updates, including a new sustainability appendix that reflects modern construction practices, revised requirements for post-installed reinforcing bars, and provisions for shear friction. Additional updates include improvements to deep foundation requirements across all seismic design categories and clarified guidelines for cantilever and basement wall shear design.

The document features numerous advancements in seismic design provisions, the addition of a performance-based wind design appendix, and modifications to development length equations. Enhanced language on the development, embedment, and anchorage of reinforcement, as well as new strength reduction factors for breakout failure, are also included, along with updated guidance for developing closely spaced bars in tension.

The format of ACI CODE-318-25 ensures it remains indispensable for professionals in the concrete industry. Designed for adoption by reference in general building codes, the document allows integration without altering its language. The accompanying commentary continues to provide detailed explanations and recommendations to facilitate the application of the code’s provisions, the firm said.

ACI CODE-318-25 will be available in multiple languages and units of measure to accommodate a global audience. Current ACI 318 PLUS subscribers will automatically receive access to the document upon its release, further enhancing their subscription benefits.

 

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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February 26, 2025 valueeng0

AMEA Power has signed Capacity Purchase Agreements (CPAs) with the Egyptian government to develop the first standalone battery energy storage systems (BESS) in the country. The projects will have a combined capacity of 1,500MWh, comprising a 500MWh BESS project in Zafarana and a 1,000MWh BESS project in Benban.

The agreements were signed by Mona Rizk, Chairperson of the Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company (EETC), and Aqueel Bohra, Chief Investment Officer at AMEA Power, in the presence of Mahmoud Esmat, Egypt’s Minister of Electricity and Renewable Energy, Hamida El-Sanea, General Manager for Renewable Energy Private Sector for the EETC and Ahmed Hafez, Manager for Business Development at AMEA Power.

The milestone projects will support Egypt’s clean energy transition by enhancing grid stability and enabling greater integration of renewable energy sources into the national energy mix.

Hussain Al Nowais, Chairman of AMEA Power said, “This agreement marks a transformative moment in our journey to power a sustainable future for Egypt. By deploying advanced battery storage solutions, we are not only strengthening the country’s energy infrastructure but also paving the way for a more resilient and decarbonised power sector. AMEA Power is fully committed to accelerating Egypt’s clean energy ambitions through innovative, large-scale renewable projects that drive economic growth, create jobs, and deliver lasting environmental benefits.”

AMEA Power has been a key player in Egypt’s renewable energy sector, with investments exceeding US $3bn across solar, wind, and battery storage projects, bringing the company’s total capacity in the country to 2,500MW of wind and solar projects, and 2,400MWh BESS.

The company remains dedicated to fostering socio-economic growth by actively collaborating with local communities. Through its ‘Community Investment and Development Programs,’ the company will implement impactful social initiatives to drive long-term positive change, said a statement from AMEA Power.

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Source: MEConstructionNews