American University of Sharjah’s (AUS) Engineering Al Nukhba Program welcomed AMANA as its newest industry partner. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two parties will offer students professional training, career development and research opportunities.

The program is designed for industry partnerships, giving students a competitive advantage by connecting them with firms across multiple disciplines. Through hands-on training, mentorship and research collaboration, the program ensures students are equipped with the practical skills needed in a job.

Dr. Fadi Aloul, Dean of the AUS College of Engineering said, “Building meaningful partnerships with industry is key to equipping our students with the tools to excel in an increasingly complex and competitive global market. Our collaboration with Group AMANA aligns with our vision to produce engineering graduates who are future-ready—combining technical expertise with practical industry insights and leadership capabilities. Together, we are preparing the next generation of innovators who will shape the future of construction and engineering.”

Joe Labaki, Chief Operating Officer at Group AMANA said, “I would like to thank American University of Sharjah for this opportunity to collaborate with the next generation of leaders. This MoU marks a significant step in fostering innovation, knowledge exchange and a shared commitment to shaping the future of engineering. This partnership will help empower these future leaders with real-world insights and hands-on experience. We are excited to welcome them to our sites across the UAE, where they will have the chance to witness the impact of cutting-edge engineering solutions that are transforming the industry.”

Group AMANA will recruit and train AUS students through internships, graduate recruitment and AMANA’s Graduate Program. Beyond employment, they will work closely with AUS faculty to co-supervise senior projects and support research initiatives, enabling students to apply their academic knowledge to industry challenges. The partnership will also sponsor industry competitions, student-led projects and skills-focused workshops and seminars.

The collaboration will advance research in areas such as sustainability in construction, advanced construction materials, modular construction, automation and robotics. Students will also gain practical exposure to off-site construction methods through site visits and research activities with Group AMANA’s subsidiaries, DuBox and DuPod, which specialise in modular construction to deliver building solutions.

Group AMANA’s professionals will contribute to curriculum development through guest lectures, the design of customised training programs tailored to the company’s workforce development needs. The partnership will further foster innovation through the establishment of innovation hubs, design-build collaborations and research into digital twin technology and smart buildings.

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JLL has been appointed by Pure Data Centres Group, a provider of hyperscale data centre solutions, to provide integrated facilities management services at its brand-new Yas Island data centre in Abu Dhabi.

Pure’s new campus, its first facility in the UAE, transitioned into live operations at the end of February, when fully complete it will provide 45MW of capability. The appointment will reinforce JLL’s growing reputation as a leading consultant and operator across existing and new hyperscale data centre locations within the EMEA region, said a statement.

JLL’s FM and engineering services will comprise ongoing maintenance and support for Yas Island’s low-voltage and high-voltage electrical systems, including its uninterruptible power supplies, switchgear and HVO-powered generators, as well as its hybrid air and liquid cooling systems. Additionally, JLL will be responsible for network and ICT management, alongside delivering front-of-house FM services, such as cleaning and landscaping.

“We are delighted to have been appointed by Pure DC on the management and operation of Yas Island after working collaboratively with them to ensure that we align our service delivery model with their expectations,” said Jonathan Kinsey, EMEA Lead and Global Chair, Data Centre Solutions, JLL. “Our team’s relentless focus on innovation and performance ensures that we are well-equipped to meet Pure DC’s needs and it is a testament to the growth of our offering that we have been trusted to take this flagship campus on and manage it.”

Kinsey added, “Data centre activity continued to swell as the world moves toward a more digital future. This rapidly rising demand for stable and efficient digital infrastructure has also highlighted the need for data centre efficiency and greener solutions which will play a bigger role in the evolution of data centre operations.”

Dame Dawn Childs, CEO at Pure Data Centres Group commented, “The opening of our Abu Dhabi campus is a very important moment in the growth of Pure DC and also for our customers in the UAE. We have appointed JLL to provide FM at Yas Island because it is a company which shares our values, approach and attitude to always meet the required highest standards. This partnership with such a global supplier is something we hope to grow and develop in the future. Together with our partners, Pure DC continues to grow its presence and influence in the data centre sector to meet the soaring demand for AI-driven and cloud-based services.”

The agreement follows JLL’s decision to strengthen its data centre services offering with the addition of three senior hires in its EMEA team after identifying a 742MW hyperscale construction boom in the region, highlighting the sector’s expansion potential.

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In preparation for the introduction of updated Saudi Building Code (SBC) and Saudi Fire Code (SFC) regulations in mid-2025, which are being introduced as the Kingdom deepens its focus on fire and life safety (FLS) standards, AESG has strengthened its Fire & Life Safety division.

The company says that it has expanded its Saudi-based team with a number of new hires, including fire protection engineers, senior fire protection engineers, and principal fire protection engineers. This strategic expansion enhances the firm’s ability to support complex projects with advanced mechanical and electrical fire protection expertise, it said in a statement.

“Saudi Arabia’s rapid expansion of mega and giga projects has significantly increased the demand for specialised Fire & Life Safety expertise. These large-scale developments require meticulous and complex fire safety planning, both from a design and regulatory standpoint. The complexity of Saudi projects necessitates both robust local knowledge as well as international expertise to develop equivalencies and alternative solutions, allowing AESG to go beyond standard code compliance and deliver high-value, performance-based fire safety solutions,” said Saeed al Abbar, CEO at AESG.

AESG is among the select few Fire & Life Safety firms actively operating in Saudi Arabia and is one of only two International Consultancy firms certified by Civil Defense as an Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) representative and reviewer, reaffirming the firm’s deep commitment to Vision 2030, the statement highlighted.

In 2024, AESG played a critical role in upgrading fire and life safety codes and systems for some of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic developments, including critical infrastructure, healthcare facilities and luxury hospitality projects, the company explained. It is said to have also collaborated with developers on major new projects, ensuring state-of-the-art fire safety systems were integrated at these developments from the outset. Collectively, AESG’s efforts have helped safeguard over US $7.99bn worth of built assets in Saudi Arabia.

Looking ahead, AESG is set to further expand its Fire & Life Safety division in Saudi Arabia in 2025, the firm said.

“We are strengthening our advisory services in policy, procedures, and governance, leveraging expertise gained from giga-projects. Additionally, we will introduce specialised solutions for industrial projects, further enhancing our service offerings in the Kingdom. Our goal is to grow our team by over 25% while continuing to elevate service quality, client experience, and governance advisory. With the upcoming Saudi Building Code (SBC-201) and Saudi Fire Code (SBC-801) changes, AESG remains committed to guiding clients through compliance with practical, high-impact Fire & Life Safety solutions—designed to be simple, effective, and achievable,” commented Abdullah Faza, Director – Fire and Life Safety, Middle East at AESG.

AESG said that it is also expanding its regional footprint in other markets, the firm revealed that it recently established a dedicated Fire & Life Safety team in Cairo and is set to expand its teams in the Asia Pacific market with hires in Sydney and Singapore.

The expansion includes the appointment of Samer Mehran as Senior FLS Consultant for the company’s Egypt office. With over 15 years of industry experience, Mehran brings deep technical expertise and leadership to support AESG’s continued growth across the Middle East.

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Dubai-based ALEC Engineering & Contracting (ALEC) has said it recorded 29% revenue growth, scaled its workforce by 46%, and established new facilities in Ras Al Khaimah in 2024. The firm said its workforce has now reached nearly 40,000 people.

AJI Rentals, the company’s heavy equipment rental arm, also established its presence in Saudi Arabia in 2024, while expanding its UAE footprint with the opening of a new facility in Dubai.

The investments bolster ALEC’s continued sectoral diversification, and expansion in Saudi Arabia — two pillars of its strategy over the last five years, the firm said.

“Over the years, our construction-adjacent lines of business — spanning fit-out, modular construction, and even data centres — have become market leaders in their own right and now contribute significantly to our overall business,” said Barry Lewis, CEO at ALEC.

ALEC’s acquisition of TARGET Engineering has also proved to be a strategic success, the firm revealed. “Last year, TARGET won multiple large-scale engineering, procurement, and construction projects, including MMBD, Borouge, and the Dalma Gas Development,” Lewis stated.

Commenting on the company’s 29% year-on-year revenue growth in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Lewis said, “Having established a robust ecosystem of talent, production facilities, supply chains, and logistics in the UAE, replicating this success in Saudi Arabia was the next logical step. In just two years, we have grown to be recognised as one of the most trusted construction firms in the Kingdom. This success has been driven not by volume but by a portfolio of complex, high-value developments.”

Among the projects ALEC has been awarded in Saudi Arabia are the Qiddiya Waterpark and Qiddiya Speedpark, the firm stated.

Going forward, ALEC said that it aims to pioneer new paradigms and technologies in the region. One such area is the modularisation of construction and MEP works, wherein the company has established large-scale production facilities in the UAE. In line with its recently unveiled Robotics Strategy, ALEC aims to have 5% of its construction activities automated through advanced robotic solutions by 2030. Through its subsidiary, Advanced Engineered Solutions (AES), which specialises in turnkey building envelope solutions, the company is targeting large-scale developments in the cultural, hospitality, and leisure sectors, where visionary architects are pushing the boundaries of conventional design.

“We will continue to challenge perceptions of our industry with our advancements in technology utilisation, sustainability, and operational efficiency. As a number of the large contracts we have been awarded move into the phase of significant activity, 2025 will be a year of consolidation. We will focus on streamlining operations and further enhancing outcomes for our clients and stakeholders,” remarked John Deeb, COO and CFO of ALEC.

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Asheil Versatile Lighting Technologies (Asheil) has secured land in Shaqraa Industrial City, 180km northwest of Riyadh, to establish a lighting manufacturing and technology hub. The milestone strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional leader in advanced lighting production, reducing the Kingdom’s dependence on imports while driving industrial growth, supply chain resilience, and job creation, said a statement.

The facility will not only produce high-performance lighting solutions for Saudi Arabia’s giga-projects, large-scale urban developments, and commercial infrastructure but will also generate significant local employment opportunities. By investing in localised manufacturing, Asheil is ensuring that Saudi talent plays a direct role in the Kingdom’s industrial transformation, equipping the workforce with expertise in advanced manufacturing and energy-efficient lighting technologies, the statement added.

The facility will integrate production techniques, energy-efficient LED technologies, and precision engineering, addressing both market demand and the need for a skilled, future-ready workforce. By providing high-value job opportunities, Asheil will support the Kingdom’s long-term economic diversification strategy while advancing technological self-sufficiency in the lighting sector.

“Asheil is proud to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s transformation into a hub for advanced lighting technology. This facility will not only provide international standard, high-quality, locally manufactured lighting solutions but will also create skilled jobs and provide new career pathways for Saudi professionals in manufacturing, engineering, and supply chain management. We sincerely thank the Saudi government and our partners for their support in making this vision a reality,” said Marco Fahd, Chairman & CEO of Versatile International.

Saudi Arabia’s LED lighting market was valued at US $2.3bn in 2024 and is projected to reach $4.8bn by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 12.9%. The Kingdom currently imports significant volumes of lighting and signalling equipment, with China accounting for over 40% of its lighting imports. By manufacturing locally, Asheil will help reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, enhance supply chain stability, and ensure customized, region-specific solutions for developers and infrastructure planners.

“With Versatile’s extensive project management experience and Haneco’s deep expertise in LED manufacturing, Asheil is set to become a transformative player in Saudi Arabia’s industrial landscape. Our integrated approach – spanning design, manufacturing, and after-sales support – will not only deliver high-performance lighting solutions but will also empower local talent with the skills and expertise needed to sustain and expand Saudi Arabia’s manufacturing sector,” said Nicho Teng, Founder & Managing Director of Haneco Lighting and Co-founder of Asheil.

Asheil is a joint venture between Versatile International and Haneco Lighting, combining project management expertise with LED manufacturing to deliver high-performance, energy-efficient lighting solutions. By localising production, the partnership aims to enhance supply chain stability, reduce costs and provide faster, more customised solutions for Saudi Arabia’s major infrastructure projects.

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Georgia-based Mardi Holding has announced its official expansion into the UAE. The move is designed to attract investors to developments in Georgia from Mardi Holding with a cooperation agreement with hospitality group Accor.

Mardi Holding is based in Batumi and has been active in the real estate market since 2010 – but has a history spanning over 30 years covering various sectors. With nearly fifteen large scale projects completed since the establishment of its real estate arm in 2010, Mardi Holding is known for its residential, commercial, and hotel developments, said a statement from the firm.

The company launched its expansion into the GCC at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Dubai. The event is said to have marked a milestone in the company’s growth and highlighted real estate investment opportunities through Mardi Global Investment (MGI). MGI focuses on creating innovative projects that promote financial growth and sustainable development, underscoring its commitment to providing transformative opportunities for investors.

“Georgia has become an attractive destination for UAE investors, boasting stunning landscapes from Kakheti’s vineyards to Svaneti’s alpine meadows. Our capital Tbilisi uniquely blends ancient architecture with a vibrant arts scene, reflecting the country’s rich culture, while the coastal city of Batumi features a beautiful subtropical climate and modern skyline. It truly has something for everyone and is the perfect second home destination,” said Juan Bagration-Mukhrani, Managing Partner of Mardi Holding.

At the event, the company highlighted its portfolio including projects such as – Batumi Hills, and provided guests with an experience to meet local hoteliers which reflects local culture and traditions. The development is said to offer distinct living experiences within stylish, brand-serviced residences. Mercure Hotel Aquapark Batumi, Georgia’s first all-inclusive hotel will provide a range of health-improving procedures and outdoor activities, catering to guests’ wellness needs.

The company also highlighted the Mardi Aquapark Wellness Resort & Residence. The resort promises various wellness-focused experiences and top-tier hospitality, while Novotel Living Batumi – the first hotel under the Novotel Living brand on the Black Sea coast in Batumi, Georgia – will offer apartment owners additional benefits and a “strata title” concept, while guests will have an opportunity to become a member of the ALL – Accor Live Limitless global loyalty program.

The launch into the UAE market is being facilitated through ZAM Prime Properties and is headed by Faisal Contractor – a subsidiary of Mardi Holding based in Dubai. Enhanced transport links, including daily four-hour flights from Dubai to Tbilisi, have solidified the connection between the two regions, as well as the convenience of sharing the same time zone, the statement noted.

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ISG Middle East has announced the promotion of Andrew Collier to Managing Director, a move which will mark a new chapter for the company, said the company. With over 11 years at ISG, Collier is said to have developed a deep understanding of the business, the fit-out market, and the wider regional landscape. His leadership and strategic vision has been instrumental in ISG’s growth and success, it added.

“I have had the privilege of leading ISG Middle East over the past decade, and I am proud of what we’ve accomplished as a team. I’m confident that Andrew’s leadership will take the company to even greater heights. His passion, experience, and vision for the future are exactly what ISG needs as we continue to evolve. I look forward to seeing all that he and the team will achieve. I will be moving back to the UK, however I will remain as a Non-Executive Strategic Advisor to ISG Middle East Chairman Andrew Craig and the team for the foreseeable future,” commented Steve Ramsden.

Andrew has demonstrated leadership, notably playing a key role in the acquisition of ISG Middle East by BluSkye Investments earlier this year. His leadership was pivotal during this transitional period, the statement noted.

“Andrew’s promotion is a testament to his dedication, and vision. His deep understanding of the market and exceptional ability to lead ISG through pivotal transitions makes him the ideal person to drive our success forward. We are confident that his leadership will continue to elevate ISG’s standing in the industry,” remarked Andrew Craig, Chairman of ISG Middle East.

In his new role, Collier will ensure ISG achieves strategic goals across customers, employees, sustainability, and governance – all in line with ISG’s culture of excellence and values. With a focus on the customer-centric approach, Collier is committed to maintaining ISG’s reputation as a leader in the industry, the company said.

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The Big Project Middle East (BPME) editorial team has announced that the 2025 Energy, Water & Sustainability Summit (EWS Summit) will take place on 14 May at the Habtoor Grand Resort, JBR, Dubai. The new name reflects the summit’s expanded agenda, which now includes a significant water component, the BPME team explained.

The summit’s key themes include: sustainable water management strategies, a focus on the development, delivery and management of Net Positive buildings, converting construction waste and wastewater into usable resources, and reducing embodied carbon in construction through the use of alternative building materials.

The day long event will convene speakers from government departments, utility companies, advisory organisations, as well as construction consultants, contractors, and suppliers. Registration is complementary but mandatory for industry professionals, click here to register.

“The Energy & Sustainability Summit has grown steadily since its introduction three years ago and for 2025, we’ve decided to expand its focus on an important topic that doesn’t quite get the attention it deserves – water. In line with this, we’ve rebranded the event – the EWS Summit – to reflect the expanded agenda which will focus on a variety of key topics. I’m personally looking forward to a day full of fantastic insights and thought-provoking debates from our diverse line-up of speakers,” said Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content at Big Project Middle East.

The event will comprise a mix of keynote speeches, fireside chats, panel discussions and presentations. “The agenda we have in mind should make for a hugely interesting day; we will be sharing agenda updates and line-up of speakers in the coming weeks,” confirmed Saundalkar.

To discuss joining the EWS Summit as a speaker, get in touch with Jason Saundalkar on jason.s@cpitrademedia. For sponsorship inquiries, reach out to Raz Islam or Arif Bari on raz.islam@cpitrademedia.com and arif.bari@cpitrademedia.com respectively.

To learn more about the EWS Summit, click here.

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