Construction – Page 102 – Access & Handling Summit 2024 | 15 February 2024, Habtoor Polo Club, Dubai

Savills Middle East announced the appointment of Sunil Parmar to lead Building Surveying services across the Middle East within its Building and Project Consultancy (BPC) service line. The move responds to the growing demand for specialist technical expertise at various stages of the project lifecycle observed across the evolving Middle East markets.

Savills Middle East’s BPC operation recently completed five years in operation, during which the team delivered solutions that are applied across all technical aspects of acquisitions, development, ownership, occupation, and subsequent disposal of property assets.

Parmar will focus on advising clients on major capital investment projects, property transactions, asset optimisation, and landlord-tenant relationships. By adopting a comprehensive asset life cycle management approach, he will equip clients with the insights needed to make value-driven decisions at every stage of the project life cycle, said the firm.

He brings over 25 years of experience as a Chartered Building Surveyor, specialising in building surveying, construction consultancy, project management, and asset management. Having spent the past seven years in the Middle East, including significant time in Saudi Arabia, Sunil’s regional experience positions him to address the unique challenges and opportunities of the market effectively, said a statement.

Most recently, Sunil was seconded to an integrated property management company in Saudi Arabia. In this capacity, he delivered CapEx and tenant fit-out projects across six major assets in Riyadh, playing a key role in redesigning the tenant fit-out management strategy and creating comprehensive tenant fit-out guidelines, it added.

Speaking on his appointment, Parmar commented, “I’m excited to join a global, multi-disciplinary real estate firm and contribute to its growth throughout the region by offering comprehensive building surveying services to existing clients and generating new business. My focus will be on delivering tailored advice to maximise asset value and enhance performance across its life cycle, whilst providing clients with the most cost-effective solutions. With significant ongoing investment into real estate portfolios in the region, I look forward to working on innovative and unique projects in the dynamic markets of the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Egypt.”

Simon Denham, Head of Building and Project Consulting and Transactional Services at Savills Middle East, commented, “We are delighted to welcome Sunil to Savills as we continue to strengthen our service line across the region. His extensive experience in building surveying and asset management, combined with his strategic approach to addressing client needs, will significantly enhance our ability to deliver value-driven solutions. Sunil’s leadership will play a vital role as we respond to the evolving demands of the real estate market and work towards achieving our clients’ goals.”

This latest appointment aligns with Savills constant commitment to addressing the region’s rapidly changing real estate landscape and delivering innovative, client-focused solutions

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Source: MEConstructionNews

ONE Development has launched ONE/AD as the first musical themed boutique hotel integrating AI, music and wellness. Co-founded by ONE Development and Amr Diab, DO Boutique Hotels is orchestrating a fusion of bold design, wellness, evocative music and AI, said a statement from the developer.

The launch of the new hotel chain by ONE/AD is seen as another step in support of both the UAE’s Tourism Strategy 2031 and those of the countries it is operating in, not only contributing to local and regional progress in the industry, but also the economy by facilitating the attraction of increased investment.

“Our partnership with global legend Amr Diab is a bold step towards redefining hospitality Industry. DO Boutique Hotels introduces a completely new disruptive hotel chain in the UAE, seamlessly blending music, design and AI to create spaces where luxury meets inspiration. Music is a universal language and DO Boutique Hotels will redefine hospitality by crafting unique experiences inspired by music enabling guests to connect with their creative rhythms,” said Ali Al Gebely, Founder and Chairman of ONE Development.

“Building on its expertise in real estate and AI-driven concepts, ONE Development is once again setting new benchmarks in the industry, offering a harmonious blend of comfort, elegance, and unforgettable moments.” Al Gebely added.

Amr Diab, founder of DO Boutique Hotels said, “Music has always been my way of connecting with people; this vision now reaches into hospitality. DO Boutique Hotels create inspiring spaces where innovation, culture and wellness meet, offering today’s travellers exclusivity, creativity and meaningful connections.”

DO Boutique Hotels, under the slogan “Live the Beat,” offers an holistic lifestyle, transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary experiences. Each venue serves as a hub of creativity and connection, redefining hospitality and a renewed sense of living.

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Charged with revitalising Saudi Arabia’s historic birthplace in Riyadh, Diriyah Company is driving forward its US $63.2bn transformation, and says the year will have major milestones, with new details expected on the recently announced Boulevard District – a cultural hub envisioned as the kingdom’s own Champs-Élysées.

Located just 15 minutes from the heart of Riyadh, ‘The City of Earth’ has already seen the opening of Bujairi Terrace – opposite the Unesco World Heritage Site of At-Turaif – which has now become a premium dining and events destination.

The ambitious development has seen progress on key infrastructure over the past year, including the completion in November of the super-basement of Diriyah Square, the setting for six luxury hotels. Over the past year, the developer has also significantly accelerated its overall programme, having signed major contracts for a variety of large-scale projects within the 14sqkm development area.

The three-level underground structure features parking for 10,500 vehicles, 5.7sqkm of tunnels, and two metro tracks. This work involved the excavation to a depth of 40m and the removal of 10m cu/m of rock, which was then reused elsewhere on-site.

Diriyah Company also marked the completion last month of a 1,707MVA-capacity bulk substation and a 200MVA-capacity primary substation. The $181.7mn substations, operated by Saudi Electricity Company and designed in the authentic Najdi architectural style, will power key developments including Diriyah Square, the Qurain Cultural District and Wadi Safar.

Its latest contract awards includes deal signed in November last year, for a joint venture between Nesma & Partners Contracting Company and MAN Enterprise Al Saudia for the development of Qurain Cultural District. There is also a contract with China State Construction Engineering Co-operation (CSCEC) and El Seif Engineering Contracting Company for the design and construction of assets in Diriyah’s Northern District.

This was followed early last month by the award of a consultancy contract to Omrania, a subsidiary of Egis Group, for the Boulevard District project. The firm will oversee the multidisciplinary design of buildings in three community zones along the 70m-wide boulevard, encompassing concept and detailed designs, as well as construction supervision. Omrania’s work will integrate with Diriyah’s masterplan, connecting the Boulevard District to cultural, retail, residential, and commercial assets across the development.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

The UAE’s industrial and logistics sector experienced an unprecedented 225% surge in demand in 2024, with Dubai’s new industrial space requirements reaching 40.6m sqft, according to Knight Frank’s Dubai and Abu Dhabi Industrial Markets Review 2024/2025.

The surging demand levels come hot on the heels of the UAE government’s announcement of plans to grow the size of the nation’s logistics sector from US $34.8bn to $54bn in the next seven years, through the establishment of the UAE Logistics Integration Council.

Faisal Durrani, Partner, Head of Research, MENA said, “In 2024, the UAE achieved significant economic milestones, reinforcing its position as a global trade and investment hub. The non-oil PMI reading rose to 55.4 in December from 54.2 in November, marking 48 consecutive months above 50, signaling sustained business expansion, which is translating into escalating levels of demand for industrial and logistics space. Separately, foreign direct investment and international trade also recorded substantial growth last year, further catalysing new space requirements.”

Demand peaked in Q4 2024, accounting for 34% of total requirements during 2024, Knight Frank says, for 2024 as a whole, the manufacturing (19%) and logistics (18%) sectors led demand in Dubai. Retailers & traders (13%), business services (11%), and construction & real estate (11%) then followed. The sharp increase in demand is underpinning a market-wide supply shortage, with new market entrants and expansion efforts continuing to fuel rental growth.

Adam Wynne, Partner – Head of Commercial Agency, Dubai explained, “Rents and capital values have maintained an upward trajectory. Industrial & logistics rents in Dubai surged by 33% year-on-year, with vacancy rates at just 3%. While developers are working quickly to respond to the rising level of requirements, the city’s 2040 Urban Master Plan promises to deliver a new wave of industrial and logistics demand. The 2040 masterplan emphasises the development of a world-class logistics network, for instance. This includes the expansion of existing ports and airports, the creation of new transport corridors, and the implementation of cutting-edge logistics technologies.”

Dubai’s industrial areas recorded significant rental growth in 2024, Al Quoz (Grade A): +45%, Dubai Investments Park (DIP): +48%, Dubai Industrial City: +38%, Dubai South: +26%. In Abu Dhabi, KEZAD Mussafah (ICAD) led rental growth, with rates surging 57% while Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ) recorded the highest rents.

During H2 2024, new large-scale industrial and logistics projects were announced in the Al Falah area, east of Zayed International Airport. Spanning 8.3sqkm, Al Falah is emerging as a key logistics hub for the capital. The new rail network will enhance supply chain efficiency, lower transportation costs, and offer a sustainable alternative to road freight, further boosting the appeal of underutilised industrial areas, as per Knight Frank.

One of the key milestones in 2024 was the completion of the Etihad Rail network, first announced in 2008. The rail network has established a cargo link between the emirates, driving increased demand around rail hubs. Knight Frank expects Etihad Rail to enhance the UAE’s industrial landscape by creating connectivity between industrial zones nationwide. This infrastructure is likely to increase demand in lower-rent areas, reducing price disparities across various industrial zones.

Wynne added, “Another game-changer will be the planned relocation of the city’s primary airport to Al Maktoum International in Dubai South by 2034. This includes the expected transfer of all Emirates Airlines operations which is already impacting on the availability of land for industrial and logistics use. This move, while hugely positive for the future of the city and its economy, will put further upward pressure on rents and values as Dubai continues to grapple with a shortage of prime land and high-quality warehousing.”

Maxim Talmatchi, Associate Partner, Head of Industrial & Logistics, UAE, said, “Land availability remains critically constrained, with most industrial parks operating at full capacity. The limited remaining plots are prioritising end-users, restricting speculative development opportunities. New supply is anticipated in late 2025 and beyond but is unlikely to disrupt the supply-demand balance. We expect rapid absorption of the 3.65m sqft of new space currently being developed across Dubai and Abu Dhabi which is due for delivery over the next two years.”

Rents are projected to rise by 2% per month throughout 2025 in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, driven by tight supply and strong demand, reflecting market confidence. In the investment market, further yield compression is likely, Knight Frank says, with prime net initial yields projected to fall below 8%, signalling sustained investor confidence in the sector.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

Egis has announced the launch of its cost management services across the Middle East and South Asia – an expansion that responds directly to the evolving complexities of today’s built environment.

With the current market seeing unprecedented levels of investment in infrastructure, real estate and sustainable development, the demand for strategic cost consultancy has never been greater, the firm said.

Egis’ commitment to cost consultancy was leveraged by its acquisition of Thomas & Adamson, a UK-based cost management firm with a legacy of excellence dating back to 1935. This move significantly strengthened Egis’ advisory capabilities, enabling a robust cost management function that aligns seamlessly with client needs in the Middle East and South Asia and firmly embeds cost consultancy within the firm’s overall multidisciplinary remit, it added.

To lead the initiative, Egis has appointed Simon Trafford, an industry veteran with over 35 years of experience, as the Regional Director for Cost Consultancy. He has played a pivotal role in shaping the financial frameworks of some of the world’s most ambitious and transformative developments, with a distinguished portfolio and deep understanding of regional dynamics, financial governance and cost optimisation.

Commenting on his new role, Trafford said, “I am delighted to be joining this dynamic and rapidly expanding business. This is an exciting time to be part of Egis and contribute to their transformational journey. The acceleration of development across the market means placing greater emphasis on cost predictability, value engineering and commercial efficiency. Through our integrated delivery model, and by building on the legacy and expertise from the recent Thomas & Adamson acquisition, Egis is now uniquely positioned to tackle these challenges, delivering sustainable, future-ready cities and developments.”

Egis believes that the new division will ensure clients benefit from a seamless, end-to-end consultancy offering, where cost consultancy forms a cornerstone in realising ambitious masterplans, giga-projects, and critical national infrastructure.

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Samana Developers has announced the opening of its newest showroom in Dubai Marina. The expansion follows the company’s recent growth into Abu Dhabi and the launch of its project in Maldives, and is said to demonstrate Samana’s commitment to broadening its footprint and strengthening its presence in markets.

The new showroom, located in Marina Plaza Dubai, will provide potential buyers and investors with a dedicated space to explore Samana’s portfolio of properties. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage with expert sales consultants, view detailed project information, and experience firsthand the quality and craftsmanship that define the Samana brand.

The expansion underscores the company’s confidence in Dubai’s real estate market, which has seen a 20% year-on-year surge in off-plan sales and a solid 6% increase in ready property sales in January 2025, with total sales reaching 11,350 units compared to 9,879 in January 2024, said the developer in a statement.

Imran Farooq, CEO of SAMANA Developers said, “Dubai’s impressive 6% gross rental yield, which continues to lead global markets and significantly outperforms major cities like New York, London, and Singapore, clearly demonstrates the emirate’s attractiveness for international investors. Our new office underlines Samana’s commitment to capitalising on this thriving market and, more importantly, better serving our growing customer base. We see immense potential in Dubai’s real estate sector, and this expansion positions us perfectly to meet the increasing demand for quality properties.”

Their strategically located properties cater to both end-users and investors, offering attractive investment opportunities with strong potential for capital appreciation and rental yields. Samana Developers is committed to sustainable growth, delivering value to stakeholders, while contributing to Dubai’s thriving urban landscape.

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Dubai South Properties has announced the launch of Beachfront Gates, an apartment development in Dubai South’s Residential District. The new project is in response to the demand for apartments in Dubai South, following the debut of South Living, which tapped into the growing appeal of the area for modern living.

Beachfront Gates comprises two residential towers, both offering views of the beachfront community and lagoon within the master development. Currently, only one of the two towers – Beachfront Gates Tower 2 -is available for sale, that features 157 units, including one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, along with a limited number of podium units that offer large terraces.

The project offers designed apartments with families in mind which include living rooms, en-suite bathrooms, closed kitchens, and large balconies and windows to maximise natural light and ventilation. Family-friendly amenities at the podium level include dedicated kids’ play areas and entertainment zones. Additionally, the project will feature separate swimming pools for adults and kids along with a variety of sports and recreational facilities at the podium decks, ensuring a well-rounded lifestyle for all residents.

Nabil Al Kindi, CEO of Dubai South Properties said, “The successful launch and sell-out of our South Living project confirms Dubai South’s position amongst the top locations by end-users and investors. This positive market sentiment has encouraged us to launch the Beachfront Gates development. With its strategic location near Al Maktoum International Airport, spacious units, high return on investment, seamless connectivity, and state-of-the-art amenities we anticipate great response by investors.”

“Over 100 units were sold on the launch day and limited inventory is currently available, which confirms the project’s appeal to buyers. At Dubai South Properties, we remain committed to attract one million residents as part of our dedication to fulfilling the ambitious vision set forth by our wise leadership,” he added.

Dubai South has been reinforcing the Residential District with amenities for the comfort and convenience of its tenants including public parks, sports courts, retail shops, hypermarket, mosque, a petrol station and a public bus route connecting the district to the Expo Metro station. Additionally, GEMS Founders School at Dubai South, opened its doors last year. Currently, the Residential District is home to over 25,000 residents who enjoy its distinctive lifestyle, range of amenities, and several gated residential communities with apartments and townhouses.

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UAE-based Major Developers has launched Phase II of its flagship project, Manta Bay, located on Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah, following the “strong success” of Phase I.

Announcing the new launch, the developer said this has been in response to heightened demand, with strong investor interest and expressions of interest (EOIs) already translating into multiple initial bookings. Designed to cater to the preferences of a global investor base spanning over 25 nationalities, Phase Two offers innovative and landscaped luxury living solutions.

Buyers can also choose fully furnished units to enhance investment potential, with the units featuring private jacuzzis and BBQ-equipped terraces, with access to a wide range of other on-site lifestyle amenities.

Major Developers’ CEO, Andrei Charapenak said, “The overwhelming interest in Manta Bay Phase II is a testament to the project’s appeal and the confidence investors have in our vision. With exclusive new units and its prime location on Al Marjan Island – home to transformative developments like the Wynn Al Marjan Island resort – this phase enhances the luxury living experience. We are thrilled to see strong momentum from both local and international buyers, with Phase Two already receiving bookings and EOIs from investors across 25 countries.”

“This is a clear reflection of Manta Bay’s global appeal and its potential as a prime investment opportunity. To meet this growing demand, we have introduced a wider range of layouts designed to accommodate evolving investor and resident needs,” concluded Charapenak.

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In a strategic move to enhance the infrastructure and connectivity of the Al Tawyeenregion, Fujairah Natural Resources Corporation (FNRC) has awarded the contract for the construction of a new asphalt road to Earth Movers International.

This project will cater to the industrial expansion needs of Power International and Sharjah Cement, supporting economic growth and operational efficiency in the region.

The contract signing ceremony took place between Sufian Nadeem, CEO of Earth Movers International and Equipmentsfinder.com, and Eng. Ali Qasim, Director General of FNRC. The collaboration underscores the commitment of both organisations to regional development, with a shared vision of delivering infrastructure solutions.

“We are honored to have been entrusted with this critical infrastructure project by FNRC. This partnership reaffirms our dedication to delivering high-quality road construction services that support the region’s growing industrial and economic needs,” said Sufian Nadeem, CEO of Earth Movers International.

Earth Movers International company plays a pivotal role in infrastructure development, supporting critical projects with innovative solutions and modern construction techniques. Specialising in contracts, rentals, and supplies, from excavation for high-rise buildings to the construction of desert access roads, site material supply, and large-scale plant relocations.

FNRC is dedicated to the sustainable management and development of natural resources and infrastructure in Fujairah. The corporation plays the role of enhancing the region’s economic landscape through strategic investments and partnership.

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MAG Group Holding has been selected as lead developer for the first phase of Marsa Zayed, a beachfront resort and residential community planned on the Red Sea in Aqaba, Jordan. Marsa Zayed will take shape on land owned by AD Ports Group.

Marsa Zayed is a project to turn a 320ha section of the Red Sea beachfront into a tourism and business hub and a southern gateway to Jordan’s attractions, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Petra and the Wadi Rum Protected Area. The project is a collaboration between the UAE and Jordanian governments, with the focus of enhancing the coastal city’s standing as a regional tourism destination and a gateway for travelers exploring the Red Sea.

AD Ports Group has developed and is operating the Aqaba Cruise Terminal, which opened in January 2023, under an agreement signed with and Jordanian state-run Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC) in 2021.

MAG Holding will attract investors and oversee the development of Phase 1 of Marsa Zayed, which will span 1.2km of Red Sea beachfront, and include Zayed Riviera, which will house four residential towers, a Marina with around 1,260 residential and 117 retail units, a hotel and hotel apartment with a beach club, an Old Souq marketplace with 50 retail shops, restoration of iconic Aqaba ’Minerat, and a yacht club and marina, as well as a visitors’ centre.

AD Ports Group signed in January 2024 a shareholder’s agreement between its digital arm, Maqta Technologies, and Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC) for their existing joint venture (JV) company, Maqta Ayla. The JV will revolutionise Aqaba’s port operations by implementing a Port Community System (PCS) that leverages Maqta Gateway’s expertise, marking the first-ever export of Abu Dhabi’s port digitalisation solution.

Moafaq Ahmed Al Gaddah, Chairman and Founder of MAG Group Holding said, “We are excited to be part of what I consider to be one of the most exciting real estate development projects in the Red Sea region, one that not only will transform the economic potential of Jordan’s maritime resources, but lead to a vibrant coastal ecosystem that stimulates economic growth across this part of the Middle East. We deliver our award-winning services to local and international customers in such a way that they most importantly benefit our customers and the communities in which we operate.”

Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group added, “Today’s ceremony is a significant step in our strategic plan to support the Government of Jordan in developing Aqaba into a premier world-class destination for tourism and economic development. This first phase of Marsa Zayed will enable AD Ports Group to deliver on our wise leadership’s vision to add economic value to this lively region. We are grateful for the support and assistance of our valued partner, ADC, and to our valued real estate development partner MAG Holding, for this collaborative effort to advance the growth of Aqaba.”

An active investor in the Red Sea region, AD Ports Group has also signed long-term concessions to develop and operate cruise terminals at the Red Sea ports of Safaga, Hurghada, Al Sokhna, and Sharm El-Sheikh, and to build and operate a multipurpose port in Safaga and a Ro-Ro terminal in Al Sokhna.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

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