Dubai Residential REIT has secured approval from its shareholders at the Annual General Meeting to distribute US $150mn in cash dividends for the second half of 2025. This decision reflects the strength of REIT’s portfolio and its confidence in Dubai’s residential leasing market.

Managed by DHAM REIT Management, the REIT sets the benchmark for the city’s residential real estate market. Last year, the Dubai Residential REIT delivered solid results, reporting revenue of US $531mn, up 9% year-on-year, supported by portfolio occupancy of 98.3% and tenant retention of 88%, the company said.

Nabil Mohammad Ramadhan, Chairman of the Board of Directors for Dubai Residential REIT said, “The approval of the cash dividend for the second half of 2025 is an important outcome for unit holders and reflects strength in the REIT’s portfolio, operating model and confidence in Dubai’s residential leasing market. With total cash dividends of $300mn for 2025, we have delivered in line with the distribution guidance provided at the time of listing.”

“Looking ahead, we remain committed to strong governance, prudent leverage, and balanced capital allocation, while continuing to progress our committed growth pipeline and maintain our distribution policy of paying out at least 80% of our net profit. Dubai’s real estate and residential leasing markets remain supported by diversified demand and a well-established regulatory framework, reinforcing confidence in their resilience,” he added.

“Against this backdrop, REIT’s long-term fundamentals remain stable, underpinned by a diversified portfolio, high occupancy, recurring rental income and disciplined balance sheet management. Net Profit before changes in the fair value of investment property increased by 14.5% to $307mn, reinforcing the strength of the underlying earnings and cash generation supporting the dividend,” he concluded.

REIT’s portfolio comprises 21 integrated communities, each with over 35,700 homes, serving more than 140,000 residents. These communities span 4 key segments: Premium, Community, Affordable, and Corporate Housing. The cash dividends being distributed are equivalent to 4.2 fils per unit, resulting in a total payout of $299mn for the year ended 31 December 2025, the statement noted.

The dividend amount is equivalent to 8.5 fils per unit, which translates to a gross dividend yield of 7.7% on the IPO price. Additionally, it accounts for 86% of the net profit before changes in the fair value of investment property, according to the statement.

The post Dubai Residential REIT to distribute $150m cash dividends for H2 2025 appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Developer TownX has collaborated with Regeny, an electric vehicle (EV) charging solution provider, to establish 29 EV charging spots at Luma Park Views, located in Dubai’s Jumeirah Village Circle.

This partnership marks a significant milestone for Luma Park Views, as it will now boast the highest number of EV charging slots in a single tower in the city. This expansion aligns with TownX’s commitment to sustainability and the advancement of the future of transportation. It represents a substantial step towards fostering a greener and more sustainable urban environment, said a statement.

Haider Abduljabbar, Executive Director at TownX stated, “Today’s announcement is a monumental step for both TownX and the city of Dubai. With the highest number of EV charging spots at Luma Park Views, we’re taking bold strides in supporting the future of clean transportation. This move underscores our dedication to sustainability and the reduction of our carbon footprint, aligning with the UAE’s vision for a green and innovative future.”

Anish Racherla, CEO, Regeny commented, “We are thrilled to collaborate with TownX to install and operate EV charging spots at Luma Park Views. This partnership not only supports the growing demand for EVs in Dubai but also aligns with our mission to provide reliable and eco-friendly charging solutions. Together, we are paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable Dubai.”

In addition to this partnership, TownX has appointed Green Parking, the industry’s provider of retail parking management, to oversee the parking operations for the over 20,000sqft of retail space within the development. This collaboration ensures efficient and innovative management of parking facilities, thereby enhancing the overall retail experience for visitors.

The post TownX partners with Regeny to operate 29 EV charging spots in a single tower appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Developer Arada has expanded its emergency accommodation support in response to flight cancellations caused by regional unrest that stranded travellers in the UAE. The developer said it has opened 150 free rooms at Aljada in Sharjah.

This initiative follows the initial allocation of 100 rooms at Nest Hotel, which was fully booked. Consequently, Arada released an additional 50 rooms. The 395-room Nest Hotel at Aljada is currently operating at 95% occupancy, accommodating affected travelers. Rooms at The Nest Campus are available on a first-come, first-served basis for stays of up to 7-days.

Rosa Piro, Director of Arada Foundation said, “Supporting communities in times of need both at home and abroad is at the heart of the Arada Foundation’s mission. When we saw how many travellers were affected by flight cancellations, we wanted to ensure that families had a safe and welcoming place to stay while they make their onward plans. By opening additional rooms at Nest, we hope to extend that support to as many people as possible during this challenging time.”

All guests receive full-board accommodation, including 3-meals daily. During Ramadan, Muslim guests are provided with iftar and suhoor at the Alsimrah Ramadan tent at East Boulevard in Aljada, offering a welcoming communal setting for affected travellers observing the holy month.

The post Arada Foundation offers free accommodation support for stranded travellers appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Dubai Municipality has awarded contracts for 5 new projects under Phase Two of the Tasreef Program to expand and strengthen Dubai’s stormwater drainage network.

Cumulatively valued at US $681mn, the new projects will serve 30 vital areas spanning approximately 430m sqm and supporting an estimated population of 3m residents by 2040.

Dubai Municipality signed the contracts with DeTech Contracting and China State Construction Engineering Corporation, alongside specialised consultancy firms. The package includes 3 contracts for projects to be executed and 2 contracts for the study and design of drainage systems in selected areas across the emirate.

The announcement builds on the projects awarded in April 2025 under Phase One of the Tasreef Program, reflecting the municipality’s phased and strategic approach to strengthening stormwater infrastructure and enhancing the city’s readiness to address climate challenges and rapid urban expansion.

The new projects represent a step towards building a comprehensive drainage system that reduces flood risks, improves infrastructure efficiency and sustainability, and enhances quality of life across the emirate, in alignment with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and national climate neutrality objectives.

H.E. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, DG of Dubai Municipality, affirmed that the Tasreef Program is one of the emirate’s most important infrastructure initiatives, supporting Dubai’s focus on long-term sustainability and reflecting its proactive approach to urban planning.

Ghalita said, “The Tasreef Program represents a practical model of long-term strategic planning adopted by Dubai Municipality across the management of the city’s operations and infrastructure assets. Our goal is to develop an integrated system for stormwater management and drainage that enhances city readiness, preserves resource sustainability, and safeguards the safety and quality of life of residents and visitors, reinforcing Dubai’s position as the best city in the world to live and work.”

Adel Al Marzouqi, CEO of the Waste and Sewerage Agency at Dubai Municipality added, “The new projects under Phase Two of the Tasreef Program mark an advanced step in enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of Dubai’s stormwater drainage system, increasing network capacity in key areas and strengthening infrastructure readiness to address climate challenges, while ensuring service continuity and elevating safety standards and quality of life.”

As part of the execution contracts, a main tunnel with a diameter of up to 4m will be constructed to connect urban communities along Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Al Yalayis Road to Dubai Municipality’s primary stormwater drainage network. The project will increase hydraulic capacity, enhance operational flexibility, and support sustainable urban growth in one of the emirate’s most dynamic development corridors.

The projects also include the development of an integrated stormwater drainage network extending more than 27kms between Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jamayel Road, comprising advanced tunnels and network systems. The works will serve transport corridors and strengthen infrastructure resilience in a key industrial and logistics zone, support business continuity, and reduce water accumulation risks.

To enhance stormwater management in inland areas, the program includes the construction of a drainage tunnel and a modern pumping station along the Dubai-Al Ain Road and Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street to regulate water collection and discharge, alongside the creation of a strategic stormwater collection lake.

Dubai Municipality has also awarded design contracts for an integrated stormwater and groundwater drainage system in Al Marmoom and Saih Al Salam, linking the areas to the main drainage network along Al Qudra Road. The initiative will support tourism and residential development, while maintaining ecological balance in line with the highest sustainability standards.

This new package of projects under the $8.2bn Tasreef Program reflects Dubai Municipality’s commitment to developing smart, resilient infrastructure based on advanced engineering solutions, reinforcing Dubai’s global leadership in sustainability, infrastructure excellence, and urban resilience.

The post Dubai Municipality awards 5 contracts for stormwater drainage under the Tasreef Program appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

DIFC Square has opened ahead of schedule, the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has announced. DIFC said the offering responds to “unprecedented demand for office space within the centre, underpinned by 100% pre-leasing levels prior to handover.”

The project reflects DIFC’s position as the region’s leading financial centre, which continues to attract new companies at an unprecedented rate, while also providing expansion opportunities for existing clients, said a statement from DIFC.

To support expansion plans, some existing registered companies are either relocating to larger premises at DIFC Square or expanding their footprint by securing additional space there. These companies include Bank of Singapore, Deutsche Bank, Gallagher Insurance, Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, Moody’s and TP ICAP, it explained.

DFIC said the move demonstrates the significance of DIFC and Dubai as a prominent financial centre that enables scale and expansion. It said that tenants who have received offices have already commenced fit-out works.

DIFC continues to help clients identify the most suitable space across the district, and the movement of existing tenants into DIFC Square will provide 100,000sqft of capacity in DIFC’s sought-after Gate District and Gate Village, it added.

Saleh Al Akrabi, Chief Real Estate Officer at DIFC Investments said: “We are pleased to announce the completion of DIFC Square ahead of schedule, underpinning our commitment to providing world-class infrastructure that enables businesses to scale and thrive. The exceptional demand from new international firms and the sustained expansions of our registered companies is a strong endorsement of the resilience and attractiveness of our ecosystem. Financial centres of the future focus on innovation, being sustainable, digitally inclusive and customer centric. At DIFC, we are ensuring that all our real estate projects align with this vision, while playing a critical role in ensuring the quality of life that attracts and retains global talent in Dubai as a top four global financial centre.”

Developed by DIFC Developments within a 24-month design and construction timeframe, DIFC Square provides 600,000sqft of office space built to meet the evolving needs of global businesses. The development forms an ensemble of three interconnected glass façade buildings with dedicated parking facilities and retail spaces. Some renowned outlets set to establish within the development include Duck & Rice, Saddle, Hudson & Rye, Liban, and Cakes & Bubbles, said the statement.

DIFC Square is said to be part of the centre’s ambitious plans to deliver 1.6m sqft of commercial space in 2026 and 2027, including DIFC Living, Innovation Two and Immersive Tower, demonstrating its proactive response to sustained demand for premium office space and its commitment to supporting the next phase of growth across financial services, innovation and professional services sectors.

Reflecting DIFC’s ongoing efforts to foster a smarter and more sustainable future, and in line with other DIFC infrastructure, DIFC Square has been built to LEED standards, with certification by the US Green Building Council due imminently, the statement confirmed.

The post DIFC Square opens ahead of schedule appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Elsewedy Electric for Power Transmission & Distribution has completed and handed over the El Saad Solar Plant, a project that has now entered its operations and maintenance phase.

Located 85km east of Riyadh, the plant has generation capacity of 348.6MW, which is said to make it one of the Kingdom’s notable utility-scale renewable energy assets.

This achievement marks Elsewedy Electric’s inaugural utility-scale photovoltaic plant in the Gulf region, starting in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It highlights the company’s strategic commitment to expanding its presence in high-growth renewable energy markets and actively supporting the Kingdom’s clean energy transition.

Elsewedy Electric for Power Transmission & Distribution received the Provisional Acceptance Certificate (PAC) for the El Saad project, developed in collaboration with Jinko Power and Al Ghazala Energy Company. The Saudi Power Procurement Company (SPPC) serves as the project’s ultimate off-taker.

The execution and delivery of the El Saad project signifies a pivotal milestone for Elsewedy Electric’s regional growth strategy. Beyond the solar generation facility, Elsewedy Electric engineered and delivered a 33/132kV high-voltage substation and constructed a 600m overhead transmission line, the firm said.

Demonstrating engineering execution and project leadership, the company says it managed to compress the original 24-month timeline to just 16.5 months. This accelerated delivery underscores the strength, credibility, and resilience of Elsewedy Electric’s integrated engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) capabilities, it added.

The integration of the solar plant with the high-voltage grid, supported by comprehensive operations and maintenance services, exceeded the expectations of both partners and supervisory authorities. This project solidifies Elsewedy Electric as a reliable contributor to the region’s clean energy goals, while ensuring long-term operational and grid reliability.

The project benefited from the expertise of OCA Global as a consultant, along with key partners such as Elsewedy Transformers, Alfanar, Siemens Energy, and Schneider Electric Saudi Arabia. This collaboration ensured a and high-quality delivery throughout all project phases.

The post Elsewedy Electric delivers its first utility-scale solar plant in Riyadh appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Dubai Municipality has launched the ‘Ehsan Stations’ initiative, the first of its kind in the region dedicated to feeding stray animals through AI-powered smart devices installed across the emirate.

The initiative reflects the municipality’s ongoing efforts to foster a culture of compassion and generosity in Dubai, while advancing animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and the preservation of the emirate’s urban landscape.

Dubai Municipality said it will install 12 smart devices across key locations in the emirate, including 10 units in public parks and 2 within facilities operated by Dubai Holding.

The Ehsan Stations rely on an AI-based system capable of identifying stray animals, collecting relevant data, and dispensing food accordingly. The concept also promotes a culture of recycling and supports a more organised and sustainable approach to feeding stray animals.

By reducing random feeding, the initiative contributes to proactive public health protection, upholds animal welfare principles, and supports environmental sustainability and biodiversity balance.

Dr. Naseem Mohammed Rafee, Acting CEO of the Environment, Health and Safety Agency at Dubai Municipality said, “The launch of ‘Ehsan Stations’ for feeding stray animals, including cats and others, reflects Dubai Municipality’s commitment to promoting humane and civilised values across the emirate, foremost among them compassion and animal welfare. The initiative also supports efforts to preserve ecological balance and advance sustainable practices that reinforce Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most attractive, progressive, and liveable cities. Through these stations, Dubai Municipality is introducing an innovative approach that combines provision of food with more effective management of stray animal populations, while also addressing random feeding practices that can lead to environmental, health, and community-related challenges.”

Rafee added that the current phase represents a pilot stage during which the stations will be tested and evaluated, enabling Dubai Municipality to draw insights that will support further enhancement and development of the initiative. She also noted that all stations have been designed and manufactured in the UAE using advanced technologies.

The municipality operates a temporary shelter that receives stray animals and provides them with basic care after collection. It also implements the Trap–Neuter–Return (TNR) program and, in some cases, the Trap–Neuter–Vaccinate–Return (TNVR) program.

These programs involve trapping cats or other stray animals, neutering and vaccinating them, and returning them to their original locations, given that they do not pose a risk to themselves or to members of the community. Some animals are also made available for adoption through the Dubai Municipality website in support of animal welfare initiatives.

Dubai Municipality also urges residents who own pets to follow best health practices in caring for them and to treat them humanely, particularly when leaving home or travelling, in order to ensure their safety and wellbeing. The municipality also calls on residents and community members to report any risks, negative practices, or concerns related to stray animals by contacting 800900.

The post Dubai Municipality launches Ehsan Stations for stray animals appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Emaar communities, hospitality, malls and development projects continue to operate normally in the current situation in the region, the developer said.

“The city continues to demonstrate resilience, supported by effective leadership, sound regulation, and a dynamic business environment,” said the company’s founder Mohamed Alabbar.

He added, “Our focus remains on disciplined execution, operational excellence, and delivering sustainable value for our shareholders and customers.”

This reassurance comes amidst the ongoing situation in the country, after military conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran began last week.

The post Emaar says communities, malls and ongoing projects operating normally appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

The 2026 edition of the Energy & Sustainability Summit is scheduled to take place at the Habtoor Grand JBR in Dubai on 20 May, the Big Project Middle East (BPME) team has confirmed.

The full day event will bring together key personalities from government departments, developers, advisory firms, construction-consultants and contractors, and suppliers to discuss several key issues, including: regenerative developments, the environmental cost of construction technology, decommissioning assets and green finance.

The summit is expected to tackle these topics and more through a varied mix of panel discussions, presentations, fire-side chats and workshops, and will offer premium networking opportunities throughout the day with stakeholders from across the built environment. Registration is complementary but mandatory for built environment professionals, click here to register.

“The Energy & Sustainability Summit is going back to its roots in 2026 and will primarily be focused on sustainable development and construction, and clean energy. The Big Project Middle East team is currently speaking to several entities and regional personalities about participating at the event, all of whom will share valuable insights on current and emerging issues in the region,” said Jason Saundalkar, Editorial Director, Built Environment and Heavy Industry Divisions at CPI Trade Media.

The event is being supported by:

Supporting Partners: DesertBoard, Engineering Contracting Company

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.

The post 2026 Energy & Sustainability Summit to be held on 20 May appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior said on X that a drone attack on Sunday morning (8 March) damaged a water desalination plant in the country. The drone attack is one of many such attacks that GCC countries endured on the day, amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel, the United States, and Iran.

The desalination plant processes seawater into potable water for residents; Bahrain is estimated to generate the majority of its drinking water from desalination plants.

“The Iranian aggression randomly bombs civilian targets and causes material damage to a water desalination plant following an attack by a drone,” the ministry statement said.

In a separate announcement, the Bahraini ministry also said that three people were injured and a university building in northern Bahrain was damaged when fragments of an Iranian missile fell there.

On Saturday (7 March) Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the United States had attacked an Iranian desalination plant on Qeshm Island, saying, “The U.S. committed a blatant and desperate crime by attacking a freshwater desalination plant on Qeshm Island. Water supply in 30 villages has been impacted. Attacking Iran’s infrastructure is a dangerous move with grave consequences. The U.S. set this precedent, not Iran.”

A spokesman for the U.S. Central Command, which is responsible for the Middle East, denied that the country had attacked a desalination plant in Iran.

The post Bahrain Ministry confirms damage to water desalination plant appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews