The 19th GCC Consultative Meeting, chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah, concluded with a directive to expedite the implementation of strategic regional infrastructure projects across various sectors, including transport, energy, and utilities.

In a press statement, GCC Secretary General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi emphasised that the leaders underscored the urgency of fulfilling all necessary requirements to execute common Gulf projects.

According to the statement issued last Tuesday, the leaders underlined the importance of the existing GCC electricity interconnection project – which is currently undergoing an expansion – and directed the Secretariat to accelerate the implementation of the GCC railway project, initiate steps towards establishing oil and gas, and water pipeline interconnections, and move forward with a study to establish the GCC strategic reserve.

Leaders of the Council countries emphasised the significance of strengthening military cooperation among their member states and expediting the completion of the early warning system project aimed at detecting ballistic missiles, as stated in the document.

Source: MEConstructionNews

The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) has announced the signing of a joint venture agreement with Volt UAE, the regional platform established by Dutch data centre and AI factory developer Volt.

The partnership will see the development of an advanced, AI-ready data centre spanning up to 60,000sqm in Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), DIEZ’s specialised economic zone for knowledge and innovation, further strengthening Dubai’s position as a global hub for the digital economy. The data centre project aligns with DSO’s expansion plans, particularly the US $3bn District IO project.

Under the agreement, DIEZ will provide land and core infrastructure, while Volt UAE will develop, finance, and lead construction of the data centre facilities, as well as oversee design, execution, leasing, and operations in line with agreed requirements. The facility will feature high-performance infrastructure engineered for exceptional resilience, uninterrupted operations, and long-term security under all conditions.

Designed with reinforced architecture, redundant systems, and hardened infrastructure, it ensures continuous availability even in the most demanding environments. It will support advanced computing and artificial intelligence applications, strengthening the emirate’s rapidly expanding digital ecosystem while setting a new benchmark for robustness and reliability in critical digital infrastructure.

The announcement was made during an official signing ceremony at DIEZ headquarters in the presence of Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ; Han de Groot, CEO of Volt; Koenraad Crooijmans, Head of Capital Markets at Volt; and Amel Chadli, President, Gulf Cluster at Schneider Electric.

As part of the project, DIEZ and Volt UAE will collaborate with Schneider Electric, headquartered in Dubai Silicon Oasis, to deliver advanced electrical systems, power distribution, and smart data centre infrastructure to enhance efficiency, reliability, and sustainability.

The strategic DIEZ-Volt UAE partnership aligns with DIEZ’s continued efforts to enhance its digital infrastructure readiness and attract strategic investments in future-focused sectors across its economic zones. It also reflects Dubai’s broader vision to consolidate its position as a global hub for the digital economy.

The project will be developed within the integrated ecosystem of Dubai Silicon Oasis, supporting the growth of the data centre sector and addressing increasing demand for advanced computing solutions. It is being implemented in two phases: an initial 29MW readily available capacity, followed by an additional 100MW of committed power.

Dr Al Zarooni said, “This strategic partnership comes at a pivotal time amid rapid global shifts, reaffirming the resilience of Dubai’s economic model and its strong investment appeal in future-focused sectors. It also reflects the value of leveraging specialised expertise in the development and operation of data centres. This step underscores the confidence of global investors in Dubai’s advanced business environment, supported by world-class digital infrastructure and agile economic policies.”

Commenting on the deal, de Groot noted, “This partnership with DIEZ marks a significant strategic milestone in advancing our international expansion. Dubai offers world-class infrastructure, positioning it as a natural hub for the next wave of digital and AI-infrastructure driven growth. We are seeing an unprecedented acceleration in artificial intelligence, with the compute aspect becoming a critical production factor for economies. Volt addresses this with a full-stack AI compute platform designed to support sovereign AI capabilities, enabling nations and organisations to develop, train, and deploy AI securely, and at scale.”

He continued, “This project is therefore more than a data centre: it is designed as a potential AI factory, a facility where energy is transformed into intelligence, supporting advanced AI applications and digital workloads for the region. At the same time, the infrastructure will be engineered for exceptional resilience, ultra-secure operations, and continuous availability, setting a new benchmark for mission-critical digital infrastructure.”

“We are confident this project will add substantial long-term value to Dubai’s digital ecosystem, supported by an integrated and forward-looking business environment that fosters innovation and aligns with the rapidly evolving global AI-driven economy,” he explained.

Speaking on the occasion, Chadli remarked, “What we are witnessing at DSO is nothing short of a defining moment for the UAE’s digital future. DIEZ embodies a bold national vision, a testament to the UAE’s unwavering commitment to leading the world’s AI economy. And at the heart of that vision stands this landmark AI-ready data centre, the foundation upon which tomorrow’s smart city will be built. At Schneider Electric, we are proud to be part of this transformational journey with DIEZ and Volt as their preferred energy technology partner.”

“We deliver the industry’s most comprehensive end-to-end infrastructure solution for AI-ready data centres, from Grid to Chip and from Chip to Chiller, combining power systems, liquid cooling, monitoring and management software, and services to help customers deploy high-density AI infrastructure faster, more efficiently, sustainably, and with lower risk,” she concluded.

Source: MEConstructionNews

India-based developer Casagrand has commenced construction work on Casagrand HERMINA at Dubai Islands.

The move marks a significant milestone in the delivery of its inaugural residential development in the UAE, a clear transition from vision to tangible progress on the ground. The project is currently on track for completion in Q2 2028, said a statement.

Luthfullah K, Director, Dubai, Casagrand said, “The commencement of construction at Casagrand HERMINA is a defining milestone for us in Dubai. It marks the moment where intent becomes reality, with visible progress now taking shape on the ground. What makes this phase especially exciting is the strength of investor confidence behind it. We are seeing clear conviction in both the asset and the market, with decisions being driven by quality, location, and developer credibility. The rise in bulk acquisitions and repeat participation reflects that confidence in a very tangible way.”

The developer has over 2-decades of experience and 160 completed developments across India, and is now venturing into its first project in Dubai. The endeavor extends the legacy of Casagrand’s people-first design, disciplined execution, and on-time delivery into a new market, solidifying its reputation for reliability at scale, the statement outlined.

The commencement of construction in Dubai signifies strong and sustained momentum behind the project. The project continues to attract investor interest, with participation from high-net-worth individuals and investors who prioritise capital appreciation and portfolio quality over short-term gains.

Additionally, a growing number of international buyers from the US, Canada, Europe, and Russia are expressing confidence in Dubai’s residential market, contributing to the overall demand for the property. A clear trend emerging is the rise in bulk acquisitions, with investors securing multiple units as part of long-term portfolio strategies, reflecting confidence in both the asset and Dubai’s fundamentals, the statement continued.

The development is designed as a lifestyle-led residential community, offering a mix of amenities including landscaped outdoor areas, swimming pools, spa and relaxation zones, sky cinema, meditation spaces, and family-focused leisure facilities. Fully furnished layouts and designed interiors.

Source: MEConstructionNews

TBH has appointed Kieren Hunt to its senior leadership team as part of its efforts to strengthen its planning and major program delivery service offering.

As a Director at TBH, Hunt will be based in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the TBH Riyadh office, further strengthening TBH’s capability in major program delivery and enhancing the client experience. He will also provide additional on-the-ground support, guidance and leadership to the TBH KSA team, the firm said.

“I have had the pleasure of working with TBH since 2013 on a number of projects over the years. As a client, I valued TBH as a trusted partner, as their advice was always objective, transparent and aligned with the client’s best interests. I am pleased to be joining the team and look forward to contributing to its continued success in the region. TBH’s values and positive, can-do approach align with my own,” Hunt explained.

Christopher Nicolas, TBH Middle East Director added, “Saudi Arabia and the Middle East remain a key market for TBH and we are committed to continuing to build and strengthen our team to best support our clients. Kieren brings significant depth of experience, and we are delighted to have him onboard. His expertise in planning and project controls on major programs will be invaluable in helping drive our clients’ projects forward. In addition, his role within our senior leadership team will support the growth of our team by providing guidance and mentorship for our colleagues in Riyadh.”

Hunt joins TBH following the successful conclusion of a 3-year contract with NEOM, where he oversaw planning, cost and risk management across a large and complex portfolio of regional infrastructure projects, the statement from TBH said.

With over 25 years’ international experience across contractors, client-side roles and consultancies, Hunt has worked on major building and infrastructure projects throughout the Middle East, UK, Ireland and Australia. He brings a depth of experience that enables him to integrate program strategy, commercial objectives, and cost and risk considerations with project execution. He has a strong track record of leading large planning teams and establishing robust project controls and governance frameworks across complex developments, it added.

TBH Managing Director, Jonathan Jacobs continued, “TBH has over 60 years’ experience in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects globally, and Kieren’s background and expertise in giga infrastructure projects aligns strongly with our specialist skillset. We are proud to continue supporting the delivery of several high-profile projects in the Middle East, most notably in Saudi Arabia in support of Vision 2030. Kieren’s appointment will further build on our capability to make a meaningful contribution to client projects.”

Source: MEConstructionNews

Abu Dhabi-based asset management company, ALAIN, has broken ground on Vida Residences Saadiyat Island. The project serves as the introduction of the first Vida-branded residences in the UAE capital. Vida Hotels & Resorts, a lifestyle hospitality brand managed by the Emaar Hospitality Group, is behind this project, the statement outlined.

Vida Residences Saadiyat Island is scheduled for completion by the end of 2027 and will feature 121 fully furnished 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom residences. The development is designed to cater to a new generation of entrepreneurs, creatives, and global residents who are seeking inspiring spaces and services, it stated.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on-site at Saadiyat Island, was attended by senior leadership from ALAIN and Emaar Hospitality Group, along with key consultants and project partners. This marks the commencement of construction, signifying the transition from concept to delivery and showcasing tangible progress on one of Saadiyat Island’s most eagerly awaited branded residential projects, said the statement.

The project is said to have garnered market demand, indicating investor confidence in both ALAIN’s visionary approach and disciplined delivery, as well as Emaar Hospitality Group’s capability to deliver a distinctive lifestyle and service quality, according to a senior official at the groundbreaking ceremony, it added.

The statement said that the project’s sell-out further solidifies the enduring strength of Abu Dhabi’s premium residential market and the demand for unique, amenity-rich developments on Saadiyat Island. Residents will benefit from immediate access to cultural landmarks, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.

Khaled Al Khoori, Managing Director of ALAIN said, “Breaking ground on Vida Residences Saadiyat Island represents an important milestone for ALAIN and reflects our commitment to delivering distinctive residential destinations shaped by design, community and experience.”

He added, “Vida’s vibrant, contemporary identity complements Saadiyat Island’s continued evolution and we are proud to introduce a development that blends creativity, connectivity and hospitality within one of Abu Dhabi’s most sought-after locations.”

Nicolas Bellaton, Head of Hospitality at Emaar Hospitality Group added, “Vida Residences Saadiyat Island marks an exciting milestone for the Vida brand as we introduce our first branded residences in Abu Dhabi. The development reflects Vida’s modern, community-driven ethos and reinforces our commitment to creating design-led residential experiences that resonate with a new generation of global residents.”

The development will create a lifestyle-driven environment centred around a curated plaza featuring retail and dining outlets, indoor and outdoor social spaces, and designed communal areas that foster connection and community interaction, he explained.

As a pet-friendly community, Vida Residences Saadiyat Island will include a dog park, along with family-oriented facilities like children’s splash pads and play areas. Residents will also enjoy 24-hour concierge and security, doorman and porter services, housekeeping and laundry coordination, grocery delivery assistance, and on-site property management and maintenance.

Saadiyat Island continues to solidify its reputation as one of the UAE’s most sought-after residential and lifestyle destinations, for its  cultural institutions, natural beauty, and hospitality experiences. The commencement of construction at Vida Residences Saadiyat Island signifies the ongoing momentum of development across the island and reflects the strong confidence in Abu Dhabi’s real estate sector, the developer explained.

Through projects like Vida Residences Saadiyat Island, ALAIN said it is committed to advancing its strategy of partnering with globally recognised lifestyle and hospitality brands to deliver thoughtfully curated residential communities that generate long-term value and contribute to Abu Dhabi’s evolving urban landscape.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Ellington Properties has launched a limited-time summer initiative across a selected range of its developments. This initiative guarantees rental returns of 35% over 5-years in Dubai and 28% over 4-years in Ras Al Khaimah. The framework aims to provide early-stage income visibility while aligning with the developer’s commitment to design quality, consistency, and delivery.

Dubai’s property market is experiencing sustained activity alongside this trend. In Q1 2026, the market recorded US $48.1bn in sales across nearly 48,000 transactions. Notably, March saw over 10,300 off-plan deals worth $8.5bn, indicating continued investor appetite while also reflecting more selective decision-making.

Investors are now paying more attention to rental yields, holding periods, and the reliability of returns, especially those seeking to strike a balance between long-term appreciation and near-term income. Consequently, investment opportunities are being structured with greater emphasis on clearly defining performance expectations at the outset.

Elie Naaman, CEO and Co-Founder, Ellington Properties said, “The conversation around real estate investment has become more focused on what happens beyond the transaction. That places greater accountability on developers like us to ensure projects are positioned to perform in a real market environment over time, supported by consistent execution and long-term quality. We remain confident in the long-term stability of the UAE market and its ability to recover and continue its growth. At the same time, we are equally confident in our developments and the value they are designed to deliver over the long term.”

The UAE’s real estate sector has shown remarkable resilience, bolstered by strong leadership, solid fundamentals, and sustained international demand. Concurrently, buyers are becoming more discerning in their asset selection, leading to a more structured investment landscape.

As these expectations evolve, presenting a clear and credible investment framework has become crucial. Ellington’s summer initiative, aligns with this shift, providing greater clarity and bolstering long-term confidence in an increasingly discerning market. Investor expectations in the UAE real estate market are becoming clearer, with buyers now placing greater emphasis on the performance of assets during the initial years of ownership, the statement concluded.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Cheval Collection has entered the branded residences sector with its new project – Cheval Residences Dubai Islands.

The exclusive beachfront property – Cheval’s third in Dubai and fifth in the Middle East – marks a pivotal milestone in the company’s regional expansion plan, which includes further growth in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and other Gulf markets, said a statement.

The project is a 3-way partnership between Cheval Collection, Dubai-based Avenew Development and Wadeen Developers, with anticipated completion in 2029. The Cheval Residences Dubai Islands will feature 99 apartments with a mix of 1-3 bedroom and a range of fitness and leisure facilities.

Its launch comes amid strong demand for serviced living in the UAE – and wider region – with investors and guests seeking full-service hotel operations with the comfort and privacy of long-term residential living, said the statement.

Operated by Cheval Collection to bring internationally recognised standards in serviced hospitality, long-stay management, and guest experience to Dubai Islands, the property’s architecture will prioritise spatial harmony, natural light and a strong connection to the surrounding beachfront environment.

Mohammed Alawadhi, MD, Cheval Collection said, “Our expansion into the branded residences sector is a natural progression for Cheval Collection, which is already firmly established as a world leader in luxury serviced apartments.”

“Cheval Residences Dubai Islands, our first seafront property in the Middle East, is set to become the flagship serviced residential offering at the islands, setting new standards of high-end living in the UAE, and reinforcing our commitment to sustained growth in the region,” he stated.

He continued, “Cheval Residences Dubai Islands will appeal to end users and long-term investors seeking stable, experience-led real estate assets at this fast-growing waterfront destination. We are delighted to add this unique property to our ever-expanding Middle East portfolio, and proud to play an ongoing role in the growth and success of the region’s real estate, tourism and hospitality sectors.”

Cheval Collection already operates Cheval Maison – Dubai The Palm and Cheval Maison – Expo City Dubai, which opened in 2023 and 2025 respectively. The company said it also has 2 properties under development in Riyadh – Cheval Ladun Living which are due to open in 2027 and Cheval Maison – Sulaymaniyah, slated for 2028 completion.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Developer Arif Developments has said that development work is progressing steadily across the board on its Kabbali Hills project in Ajman. The developer noted that efficient project management systems, established delivery networks, and stable operational frameworks are ensuring the project is on track.

This consistent execution aligns with its overall development strategies, resulting in advancements across key areas, it added.

Kabbali Hills is said to be a unique villa community, with each villa perched at a distinct elevation. This arrangement ensures that every home stands independently, yet integrated through a cohesive architectural approach and blends modern design with refined living, the developer explained.

Every home is designed for openness and natural light, and will feature generous interiors, private landscaped spaces, and outdoor terraces, all finished to a high standard. The development is crafted to offer an elevated lifestyle within an exclusive and refined living environment, the developer explained.

Kabbali Hills is advancing with clear direction and consistency, guided by a structured approach to execution and an uncompromising focus on quality, said Arif Abdul Latif, Chairman and Founder of Arif Developments. “We remain committed to delivering a product that brings together design integrity and construction excellence.”

The developer noted that all project teams remain fully mobilised, ensuring continuity in construction activities and steady advancement across the site. Kabbali Hills continues to take shape as a luxury villa community in Ajman, reflecting a growing demand for high-end residences.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Bahrain-based developer Diyar Al Muharraq has announced the latest release of premium residential seafront plots within its Mozoon project, billed as one of the most sought-after residential schemes within the developer’s masterplan.

This latest offering comes in response to the growing demand for premium waterfront properties that offer residents a unique blend of tranquility and luxury, reinforcing Diyar Al Muharraq’s position as a premier destination for high-end living, said a statement.

“At Diyar Al Muharraq, we prioritize excellence in our real estate offerings to meet the evolving aspirations of our clients. The launch of these new plots in Mozoon underscores our commitment to providing unique residential options for both citizens and investors. These limited number of plots represent an opportunity to own a property on a magnificent waterfront along the Main Canal. We have ensured that these spacious plots provide families with the privacy and comfort they seek within a fully integrated and sustainable urban environment,” said Eng. Ahmed Ali Al Ammadi, Chief Executive Officer of Diyar Al Muharraq.

The developer says that 13 residential plots have been positioned to offer direct and breathtaking views of the Main Canal. These plots offer diverse sizes ranging from 760 to 1,144sqm, providing owners with ample space and complete flexibility to design and build their dream homes.

This project is designed to meet the highest standards of modern living, catering to families seeking privacy within a serene environment surrounded by stunning maritime views, it added.

The Mozoon project is said to be characterised by its advanced infrastructure and a seamless road network that connects residents to Diyar Al Muharraq’s vital facilities and services, including top-tier educational institutions, healthcare facilities, retail destinations, and landscaped parks.

Source: MEConstructionNews

The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) has announced that work has started on the Imam Muslim road development project, a key component of the second package of the Main and Ring Road Axes Development Program.

The project marks a new phase of works extending north toward Dirab Road, as part of ongoing efforts to upgrade the city’s road network and improve traffic flow.

Once completed, the project will see the upgrade of a 12km section of Imam Muslim Road. The scope of work includes the construction of 4 main bridges, each spanning 150m, and increasing the road’s capacity to handle up to 200,000 vehicles per day.

The upgraded road will include 3 main lanes and 2 service lanes in each direction, said RCRC in a statement.

Ultimately, the project will provide a direct and seamless connection between the Southern Ring Road and Dirab Road. This improved link will serve neighborhoods in southern Riyadh, enhance mobility, and help ease congestion along several key arterial routes, said a statement.

To support this phase of construction, a new traffic diversion will be implemented. The current closure on Imam Muslim Road at the intersections of Al-Itidal Road and Arafat Road will remain in effect.

Traffic will be rerouted via designated service roads and alternative routes to ensure smooth and uninterrupted vehicle flow throughout the construction period, said the statement from RCRC.

In coordination with the relevant authorities, the construction zone has been fully equipped with the necessary directional and warning signage.

Digital mapping systems and navigation applications have also been updated to help maintain smooth traffic flow. A dedicated page has further been launched on RCRC’s official website to provide the public with real-time project updates and related road information, it added.

Source: MEConstructionNews