Emirates has announced a new US $5.1bn engineering complex at Dubai South. The facility is expected to become the world’s most modern and advanced maintenance, repairs and overhaul (MRO) facility. It will cement Emirates and Dubai’s leadership in global aviation capability and infrastructure.

The groundbreaking ceremony was held in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates airline and Group, Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline, His Excellency Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South and Dai Hegen, Chairman, China Railway Construction Corporation Limited.

The new engineering facility is being delivered by China Railway Construction Corporation with Artelia being appointed as the project consultants.

“The groundbreaking for the $5.1bn engineering facility is a strategic step forward in Dubai’s future-focused aviation ambitions. The new facility strengthens Emirates Engineering’s vertical integration strategy by bringing more skills, infrastructure, parts production, and specialist capabilities under one roof, while positioning the airline to serve as a strategic engineering partner for the future requirements of the regional and global aviation industry. This latest investment also aligns directly with Dubai Economic Agenda D33, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global economic hub and centre of aviation excellence, and lays the foundations for the next chapter of growth for Dubai, the UAE and the wider MRO industry,” said His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates airline and Group.

HE Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South added, “At Dubai South, our mandate is aligned with the vision of our wise leadership to further strengthen Dubai’s position as the aviation capital of the world through the development of an integrated ecosystem that supports the future needs of the global aviation sector. The groundbreaking of this world-class facility marks another milestone in advancing the aviation infrastructure surrounding Al Maktoum International Airport, which is set to become the largest once completed. This project will play a key role in enhancing Dubai’s capabilities to cater to the growing demand for advanced aviation services and maintenance solutions, while reinforcing the emirate’s position as a global benchmark for aviation excellence, innovation, and long-term industry growth.”

Dai Hegen, Chairman of China Railway Construction Corporation Limited commented, “As an important milestone reflecting the good-neighbourly friendship and practical cooperation between China and the UAE, this project fully aligns with the consensus reached by the two heads of state and Dubai’s economic development vision, and demonstrates Emirates’ high recognition of CRCC’s comprehensive strength and brand reputation. As the main contractor, we will uphold our core values, mobilise premium resources and assemble a professional team to deliver high-standard construction, efficient progress and quality results, striving to build a model project for China-UAE cooperation and contribute our full strength to deepening bilateral economic and trade ties and building a China-UAE community with a shared future.”

The facility will span 1.1m sqm which is said to make it one of the largest buildings in the world by volume and the largest steel structure in the GCC. The facility will also feature the world’s only hangar complex with the ability to simultaneously service 28 wide-body aircraft and 2-painting hangars. Other notable features of the mega-facility include:

• The largest free-span hangar in the world at a width of 285m
• The largest dedicated landing gear workshop in the world
• 77,000sqm of dedicated workshop space for repairs and maintenance
• 380,000sqm of storage and logistics capacity
• 2 state of the art paint hangars to service Emirates’ fleet of wide-body aircraft with extended capacity to also handle narrow body aircraft.

The technical facilities will be supported by a new dedicated administrative building for Emirates Engineering providing 50,000sqm of office space and 15,000sqm of training facilities, as well as a gateway facility that will control airside access. Emirates’ new engineering complex is also expected to set new benchmarks for sustainability, with all project facilities targeting a LEED Platinum rating and with solar panels installed on the roofs across the complex among other initiatives, the statement outlined.

Construction of the facility is expected to be completed by middle of 2030 and the hangar complex will initially start servicing aircraft requiring heavy maintenance and spillover projects from the Emirates Engineering Centre at Dubai International Airport (DXB).

Source: MEConstructionNews

A new 215,000sqft multi-user 3PL Logistics Hub at Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA) has been inaugurated by Gallega Global Logistics. The move expands regional logistics capacity and enables faster, more reliable distribution across the UAE and wider GCC.

According to the firm, the facility will support advanced fulfilment through ultra-large, multi-user warehousing facilities equipped with integrated management systems, flexible storage solutions and technology-enabled logistics services. It is expected to create 200+ jobs and enhance access to regional and international markets through JAFZA’s multimodal trade ecosystem.

The opening ceremony was attended by Ghassan Aboud, Chairman of Ghassan Aboud Holding and Abdulla Al Hashmi, Global COO – Parks and Economic Zones, DP World, alongside a group of business leaders, senior executives, and experts from the automotive, logistics, and global banking sectors.

“The opening of Gallega’s multi-user logistics hub at Jafza marks an important milestone in our partnership with DP World and reflects our long-term commitment to strengthening supply chains across the region. Through advanced infrastructure and technology-enabled operations, we continue to build scalable solutions that improve efficiency, reliability, and customer service for our partners and customers,” commented Aboud.

The launch is said to form part of a strategic partnership between Ghassan Aboud Holding and DP World GCC to deliver flexible, technology-enabled logistics solutions that support growing regional demand for integrated supply chain services.

Abdulla Al Hashmi, Global COO, Parks & Economic Zones, DP World added, “At a time when supply chains are being tested by geopolitical volatility, customers need greater flexibility, faster response times and dependable market access. Investments like this strengthen the broader logistics ecosystem around JAFZA, helping businesses manage disruption and maintain continuity as trade flows evolve. For us, this is part of building long-term supply chain resilience and we are proud to welcome Gallega to JAFZA as we deepen the trusted relationships that help businesses navigate uncertainty and grow with confidence.”

The hub is expected to improve delivery speeds, strengthen service levels and enhance supply chain resilience for both regional and international operations.

Sara Rachid, CEO of Gallega Global Logistics concluded, “This centre represents a new strategic step in Gallega’s journey toward expanding its logistics footprint through a freezone-based, open storage and multi-user facility. It supports our growth ambitions both within the UAE and across international markets. Through modern infrastructure and technology-enabled operations, we continue to strengthen our operational capabilities to deliver faster, more efficient, and more flexible services to customers across markets.”

Source: MEConstructionNews

The completion of advanced maintenance and comprehensive rehabilitation works on Dubai Metro’s tunnel infrastructure has been announced by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

The maintenance works are said to align with the RTA’s vision for sustainable operational excellence, delivered through an integrated preventive and corrective maintenance framework built on advanced technologies and innovative engineering solutions. The framework enhances the efficiency of Dubai Metro’s tunnel infrastructure, extends its operational life, and maintains the highest levels of readiness and safety.

According to a statement, the works form part of the RTA’s ongoing efforts to enhance operational safety, ensure service continuity with high efficiency and reliability, and preserve vital assets in line with the highest international standards and recognised best practices in the rail sector.

The advanced tunnel maintenance and management programmes cover periodic inspections, specialised cleaning, resolution of technical observations, rectification of operational defects, replacement and upgrade works for assets that have reached the end of their service life, and continuous improvement projects aimed at sustaining optimal system performance over the long term.

Over the past year, the RTA said it carried out 51 specialised tunnel inspections under precise operational plans. These inspections led to the identification and resolution of 873 corrective maintenance tasks to high efficiency standards.

Key performance indicators recorded outstanding results, with the RTA achieving 100% of its preventive maintenance targets and 100% of its corrective maintenance targets. This reflects the RTA’s corporate commitment to safety, asset sustainability and operational service quality, the RTA outlined.

As part of its efforts to maintain a safe and sustainable operating environment, enhance asset efficiency and extend asset operational life, the RTA said it continues to carry out periodic and comprehensive tunnel cleaning works. These works involve advanced cleaning methods that combine manual cleaning with high-pressure washing technologies, ensuring the effective removal of dust, debris and surface build-up that may affect operational safety or system efficiency.

All maintenance, rehabilitation and inspection works are carried out in accordance with recognised international standards and global best practices in the rail sector. These works also focus on developing technical capabilities and strengthening continuous training and qualification programmes for specialised teams, ensuring alignment with the latest technologies and international standards while supporting the readiness and capability of teams to uphold the leadership of Dubai’s mass transit system, the RTA concluded.

Source: MEConstructionNews

As part of its focus on strengthening its presence across key markets, whilst maintaining an integrated international platform, HKA has announced changes within its EMEA Construction Claims and Expert Services (CCE) Partner team.

According to a statement from the firm, Nicola Caley, Partner at HKA, will be relocating to London, and will continue to play a role on major claims assignments across EMEA. The firm said her return further strengthens HKA’s regional presence and ensures continuity across key commissions. HKA notes that Caley is already well known to colleagues and clients from her previous time in the UK.

The firm also confirmed that Tom Kapapa, Partner at HKA will relocate from Doha to Abu Dhabi, where he will play a major role in expanding HKA’s expert offering in the UAE. HKA explained that he will continue to support existing projects and client relationships in Qatar, while his presence in Abu Dhabi enhances the firm’s ability to respond to growing demand in one of the region’s most important construction markets, working closely with colleagues across the Middle East.

HKA confirmed that the updates are part of its broader strategy to align leadership with priority geographies and client demand across Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

“These developments collectively place HKA in a strong position to sustain its momentum throughout the year, strengthen client relationships, and help deliver complex, high-value projects across the region. I look forward to supporting Nicola and Tom in their new geographical roles and to their ongoing contributions to the firm’s success,” explained Haroon Niazi, Partner, Construction, Claims and Services Lead, EMEA, International at HKA.

Source: MEConstructionNews

PG Real Estate has officially handed over PG One, its mixed-use development in Al Furjan, marking another major milestone in the company’s delivery-focused growth strategy. With an approximate sales value of US $40.8mn, PG One was fully sold out at launch, the firm said.

The completed development comprises 113 residential apartments and 8 retail units, and has already demonstrated strong post-handover market performance, with units in the secondary market commanding notable premiums driven by sustained end-user demand, quality execution, and high occupancy levels. Located within walking distance from the Discovery Garden metro station, this residential tower features studios, 1 to 3-bedroom duplex apartments, each with its own pool, it added.

PG Real Estate said the project reflects the company’s core philosophy that true developer success is measured not at launch, but by the long-term performance of the delivered asset and the returns generated for investors and homeowners.

Commenting on the handover, Karim Merchant, CEO of PG Real Estate said, “For us, success is ultimately measured by the trust our investors and customers place in us with their hard-earned money and the returns they achieve over time as a result of that trust.”

He added, “We are proud that every project we have handed over to date has performed strongly in the secondary market and commanded a premium. That, more than anything else, validates the quality of our developments and our long-term approach to value creation.”

Merchant added that PG One exceeded several of its original launch specifications during construction, with upgrades made across finishes, detailing, and common areas to further enhance the end-user experience.

“We believe handover is where a developer’s real reputation begins. At PG One, we focused not only on delivering what was promised, but on elevating the overall product beyond expectations. That commitment to quality and execution continues to define our business,” he stated.

The company also confirmed an upcoming development pipeline valued at approximately US $81.7mn, including a premium Grade A commercial office tower in Al Jaddaf and a high-end residential project in Meydan Horizon.

According to PG Real Estate, both projects will continue the company’s strategy of focusing on prime locations, controlled density, strong design differentiation, and long-term investment value.

“Our approach has always been disciplined and selective,” Merchant commented. “We are not focused on volume for the sake of growth. We focus on creating high-quality developments that perform sustainably over time for both end-users and investors.”

The developer also reiterated its long-term confidence in Dubai’s real estate market, citing continued economic growth, infrastructure expansion, regulatory maturity, and increasing international demand for premium residential and commercial assets across the emirate.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Etihad Rail has said that final preparations are underway for its freight and passenger rail projects, as well as several other strategic plans for the coming years.

Chairman Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan unveiled the key details at a Etihad Rail meeting. The purpose of this move is to enhance connectivity across the emirates and support the nation’s vision for sustainable transportation. The meeting was attended by senior company officials, including the CEO, Shadi Malak, said a statement.

In addition to these discussions, Sheikh Theyab met with officials from the Public Policy Integration for Truck and Rail Committee, chaired by Rashed Lahej Al Mansoori, the Director General of Abu Dhabi Customs. Representatives from the Ministry of Interior, Etihad Rail, and Abu Dhabi Police were also present at the meeting.

During the meeting, Sheikh Theyab received an update on the progress of 11 initiatives aimed at enhancing railway integration within the country’s transport network. Notably, 4 of these initiatives have already been implemented.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Trojan Construction Holding has joined hands with Orascom Construction for the establishment of a new company – Everwater for Treatment Systems – headquartered in Abu Dhabi dedicated to delivering EPC and O&M services for large-scale water infrastructure projects across the region.

Everwater combines the 2 companies’ technical expertise, financial strength, and delivery capabilities to build a strategic platform for delivering complex, large-scale water projects.

The partnership leverages Trojan’s strong execution capabilities and Gulf market footprint, along with Orascom Construction’s proven leadership as a developer and EPC and O&M contractor across water infrastructure, with more than 17m cu/m per day of combined water, wastewater, and desalination capacity in the MEA region.

The agreement was signed during the Abu Dhabi Infrastructure Summit by Eng Mohamed Mahmoud, Deputy Group CEO of Trojan Construction Holding and Eng Ihab Mehawed, Managing Director of Orascom Construction.

On the partnership, Mahmoud said, “Everwater represents a strategic step in expanding our capabilities into critical infrastructure sectors that are essential for sustainable development. By combining our strengths with Orascom Construction, we are establishing a platform that is well-positioned to deliver high-impact water projects across the region, while supporting long-term infrastructure priorities.”

The establishment of Everwater in Abu Dhabi reflects the emirate’s growing role as a global hub for infrastructure development and investment. The new JV is in the final negotiation of a 300,000cu/m per day desalination plant in the region.

Mehawed said the partnership builds on Orascom’s shared track record of delivering complex infrastructure projects at scale.

“Through Everwater, we are creating a focused vehicle that can effectively pursue and execute large water projects, where technical expertise, financial strength, and delivery certainty are critical,” he concluded.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Emaar Properties announced its decision to exit the joint venture structure with The Eighth Gate, its mixed-use development in Yafour, Damascus. This marks a significant milestone in Emaar’s longstanding relationship with Syria, as it will operate independently in the country without any partner.

The Eighth Gate was conceived in 2005 as Syria’s first master-planned community – a US$ 500mn integrated development spanning commercial, retail, hospitality, and residential zones across 300,000sqm in Yafour, 22km from the heart of Damascus.

Emaar’s confidence in Syria’s economic revival and the transformative potential of The Eighth Gate for the country’s built environment is evident in this transition. By taking on the project independently, the company can guarantee that The Eighth Gate meets the standards that define Emaar developments worldwide, said a statement.

The project will benefit from the same operational rigor and design philosophy that has shaped iconic destinations such as Downtown Dubai, Dubai Hills Estate, and Emaar Beachfront. The project aspires to be a modern eighth gateway, honoring Syria’s remarkable heritage, while paving the way for a new era of growth, commerce, and community.

Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar Properties said, “Our decision to exit the JV structure of The Eighth Gate is a statement of our unwavering belief in Syria and its people. Emaar was built on the conviction that great cities deserve great communities — and Damascus is one of the greatest cities in the world.”

The Eighth Gate holds significance in the national consciousness. Named in tribute to Damascus’s seven ancient gates, these enduring symbols represent a civilisation that embraced the world, the statement concluded.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Webuild has successfully completed works on the Western station of the Riyadh Metro network. By bringing this station into service, the entire line of the Italian builder’s 22-station network on the Orange line is officially complete.

Located in the western part of Riyadh along one of its main arteries – Al Madinah Al Munawarah Road – the Western Station is an urban hub that redistributes intermodal transport flows. Covering 112,000sqm, it integrates an elevated metro station, a bus terminal, underground parking with over 600 spaces, retail areas, a mosque and a large public square, said a statement.

A 176km infrastructure route, the Orange line is said to be the backbone of the capital’s driverless network, that places the city among the most advanced in the world for automated public transport.

Celebrating the key milestone, The Royal Commission for Riyadh City said it has started operations on the Western Station, a vital Saudi project with a strong sustainable footprint. The structure was designed according to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold criteria, one of the most recognised certifications for sustainability, said the RCRC in its statement.

The use of high-efficiency equipment and the contribution of self-generated renewable energy helped reduce water and energy consumption even during construction, it added.

The Italian builder pointed out that from an architectural perspective, the station offers a contemporary interpretation of the Saudi landscape. The design of its structure takes inspiration from the colours and shapes of desert dunes.

“Horizontal structures emerge from the ground, defining the entrances, guiding natural light into the interior spaces and providing shaded areas,” said a spokesman for the company.

“Two large arches, spanning up to 115m and rising by 24m, support the main roofs, creating a monumental structure that blends into the urban landscape rather than standing out as an isolated object,” he concluded.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Sobha Realty has signed an MoU with Keeta Drone to introduce next-generation air delivery ecosystems across its integrated communities.

Through this partnership, Sobha Realty becomes Keeta Drone’s first official Smart Community partner in the UAE, reinforcing its commitment to embedding future-ready infrastructure and sustainable technologies into the very fabric of its developments, said a statement.

The MoU was signed in the presence of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), marking a significant step forward in redefining how logistics and mobility are seamlessly integrated within premium residential environments.

Keeta Drone’s technology-driven delivery ecosystem is fully equipped to introduce faster, smarter and eco-conscious last-mile logistics designed around community convenience and operational safety. Integrated within government-approved frameworks, the initiative supports Sobha Realty’s vision of building future-ready communities where innovation enhances everyday resident experiences, said a statement.

The partnership represents a natural progression toward Smart Community Vision, where infrastructure is designed not only to meet present-day expectations, but to anticipate the needs of tomorrow, shaped by intelligent, adaptable solutions.

Leveraging its Backwards Integrated model, Sobha Realty is positioned to enable the safe, efficient and scalable deployment of air delivery networks within its communities. This capability allows for precise integration of advanced technologies while maintaining the highest standards of quality, setting a new benchmark for innovation-led residential experiences in the region.

The collaboration will be implemented in phases, with all activations operating within government-approved frameworks, underscoring both organisations’ commitment to safety, compliance, and responsible innovation.

Francis Alfred, MD, Sobha Realty said, “At Sobha Realty, our vision of luxury extends beyond design and craftsmanship to the intelligent ecosystems that power everyday living. This partnership is not about introducing a new service; it’s about re-imagining how communities function in a rapidly evolving urban landscape.”

“Our Backwards Integration model allows us to engineer and integrate such advanced technologies with precision, safety and long-term scalability. By collaborating with Keeta Drone, we are taking a decisive step towards building self-sustained, future-ready communities where innovation, sustainability, and convenience are seamlessly embedded into the resident experience. This is the next frontier of smart living, and Sobha Realty is proud to be leading it,” it added.

Dr Mao, President, Keeta Drone remarked, “This partnership with Sobha Realty represents a defining moment for us. Our collective aim is to support communities that stand for quality, precision and long-term thinking – core values that are deeply embedded in our DNA. Together, we are not just signing an agreement; we are laying the foundation of what the future of urban living in the UAE looks like. We are proud to have Sobha Realty as our Smart Community Partner, enabling the future, and we look forward to bringing this vision to life for their residents across 2026 and beyond.”

Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, Director General of DCAA stated, “The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority is pleased to support the responsible advancement of air deliveries by Keeta Drone within the native community of Sobha Hartland, reflecting our commitment to embracing innovation that is beneficial to the city’s future mobility ecosystem in the Emirate of Dubai.”

Both Keeta Drone and Sobha Realty have also expressed their intention to explore opportunities beyond the UAE as Keeta Drone’s deployment roadmap grows and Sobha Realty continues its international expansion.

Source: MEConstructionNews