NEOM has announced a partnership with international hospitality brand Zannier Hotels to develop a new luxury eco-resort in Zardun, one of its key hospitality destinations in the Magna region.

According to NEOM, Zannier Zardun will offer a ‘tranquil retreat’, at the heart of the 4sqkm Zardun resort. It will overlook the waters of the Gulf of Aqaba, and feature 100 distinctive rooms and suites, spread across three individually themed buildings. Guests at Zannier Zardun will enjoy a range of activities, including nature conservation programmes, sports, and leisure activities. The resort will also feature an ‘experience centre’ with a 360-degree observation deck, offering visitors unparalleled views of the surrounding area.

Arnaud Zannier, Founder and CEO of Zannier Hotels said: “This partnership marks a significant milestone, solidifying our position among top-tier hospitality brands. It highlights our ambitious vision and commitment to excellence, serving as both a cornerstone for our brand’s evolution and a testament to our emergence as a formidable contender in the luxury hospitality market.”

As part of NEOM and Zannier Hotels’ dedication to preserving and enhancing the natural environment, the resort will feature a series of lush oases designed to support diverse habitats, aiding the reintroduction of native animal, tree, and plant species.

Jeremy Lester, Executive Director, Magna, commented, “Zannier Zardun epitomises NEOM’s dedication to crafting unrivalled experiences that celebrate the precious environment and rich heritage of Magna. Together, we will carefully and diligently cultivate and conserve the vibrant ecosystem along the coast for future generations. This partnership with Zannier Hotels reflects a unified vision where ultra-luxury and sustainability coexist in perfect harmony. Zannier Zardun charters new horizons, merging our grand ambitions and shared values to create lasting memories for our guests and visitors to cherish.”

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DAMAC Properties has announced the launch of its inaugural project in Ras Al Khaimah – Shoreline by DAMAC, located on the shores of Al Marjan Island.

The beachfront residence is being designed in collaboration with contemporary art icon Vincent Faudemer’s collection, BABOLEX, bringing a harmonious blend of funky and chic detailing to create a modern aesthetic with comfortable living for residents. Shoreline by DAMAC marks the developer’s second collaboration with BABOLEX, following the Coral Reef by DAMAC development in Dubai, said a statement from DAMAC.

The new development highlights the developer’s commitment to creating living spaces that combine sophistication with tranquillity. Situated on the Island 4 on Al Marjan Island, it will offer a five-star resort experience, featuring direct access to the beach. The Shoreline is designed to offer residents unobstructed views of the Arabian Gulf, complemented amenities such as landscaped gardens, fitness centres, running tracks, swimming pools, wellness areas, a sunset bar and floating cabana, it added.

Mohammed Tahaineh, General Manager of Projects at DAMAC added, “We are thrilled to bring our expertise and commitment to unparalleled luxury and excellence to Ras Al Khaimah, an emirate that is fast emerging as a premier destination for residents, holiday homeowners, and investors alike. Shoreline by DAMAC is more than just a residential development.”

“It embodies the aspirations and goals of the UAE’s evolving population. What sets our new development apart is its prime waterfront location, with convenient proximity to some of the region’s most exciting attractions, combined with our exclusive architecture and collaboration with BABOLEX. This partnership brings innovation and art-inspired living spaces that blend comfort and sophistication,” added Tahaineh.

The government’s supportive initiatives, regulations, and residency eligibility have further fuelled demand for residential properties, particularly apartments, making the city attract the investors and those seeking holiday homes amidst its natural beauty. Shoreline by DAMAC is set to meet this demand, offering apartments tailored to the needs of modern residents and investors, the statement concluded.

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SOL Properties has begun construction of the residential ‘Fairmont Residences Solara Tower Dubai’, which is said to further elevate the regional real estate landscape by implementing stringent green building principles and advanced energy-efficient technologies.

The project will implement energy management systems, water-efficient fixtures and other sustainable features to reduce utility bills and its carbon footprint. The company has delivered several projects, consolidating luxury and sustainability in the UAE real estate landscape, said a statement from the developer.

Fairmont Residences Solara Tower Dubai aims to bring a new level of service to Dubai under Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, a hotel brand within the Accor group. Fairmont will guide the project’s design, ensuring the brand’s commitment for providing homeowners with exclusive privileges. Residents will enjoy access to services and amenities, a private swimming pool, fitness centre, and spa, offering a hotel-like experience within the comfort of their own home and the tower as a significant landmark.

The initiative by Fairmont and SOL Properties showcases both brands’ long-standing commitment to sustainable development, aligning with the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030 and reinforcing the nation’s status as a global sustainability hub.

The Fairmont Residences Solara Tower Dubai is said to be a residence for upscale urban living, and uses sustainably sourced materials such as post-tension slabs to reduce material cost while enhancing structural integrity. Similarly, by leveraging prefabricated steel structural components that facilitate speedy on-site assembly, reduce construction time, enhance precision and promote environmental preservation by limiting power use and waste production, it added.

In addition, the project will feature self-shading balconies to reduce the need for air conditioning and electric-powered lights, thus reducing utility bills and the building’s carbon footprint. Advanced technologies, such as BIM are being utilised to enhance the project’s overall efficiency.

Ajay Bhatia, Founder and CEO of SOL Properties said, “We, at SOL Properties, strive to elevate UAE residents’ quality of life by synergising luxury and sustainability. In recent years, we have witnessed remarkable growth in the demand for sustainable luxury residences within the UAE as luxury homebuyers are increasingly seeking residences that align with their environmental values without compromising on comfort and design.”

“Hence, we remain committed to catering to the evolving demands of our clients by employing innovative designs and eco-friendly practices that enhance the luxury living experience. We are pleased to reveal that the construction of the Fairmont Residences Solara Tower Dubai is expected to be completed by Q4 2027,” Bhatia added.

The project utilises technology that streamline design, planning and coordination to minimise errors to project management and uphold sustainable standards, the statement concluded.

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Unique Properties has expanded into the secondary market, it has announced. Having secured 36% of its transactions in this segment since January 2024, the company has brought on board Chris Jones and André Henry Watson as Sales Directors. With their combined expertise, they will spearhead the company’s continued growth and strategic direction in this dynamic market.

The additions to the team marks a step in the company’s strategic growth plan by focusing on Dubai’s secondary market, which accounted for 41% of total transactions in 2023 according to Deloitte’s Real Estate Predictions 2024, said a statement from the firm.

With 17 years of experience across the UK and UAE real estate sectors, including 15 years in management, Chris recognised the potential growth and established the secondary market division at Unique Properties less than a year ago, and now leads a team of over 30 real estate agents. Known for his ability to drive sales growth and expand market share, he is responsible for crafting and executing innovative sales strategies, setting ambitious targets, and mentoring his team to achieve exceptional results.

The division is focused on seizing opportunities in high-demand areas like Downtown, Business Bay, Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Arabian Ranches, Emaar South, Emirates Living, Jumeirah Living and the townhouse communities surrounding the Al Qudra Road, the statement explained.

Commenting on the new leadership team, Armin Jalili, Partner, and Board Member of Unique Properties said, “The secondary market offers immense opportunities for growth, with Chris and André leading the charge, we are confident in our ability to expand our presence in this critical market segment. Their leadership will be pivotal in helping us connect more buyers with the exceptional properties Dubai has to offer, further cementing our position as one of the leading brokerage firms in the industry. Chris and André’s expertise will also significantly influence Dubai’s real estate market, driving innovation and excellence.”

Unique Properties said it will capitalise on its state-of-the-art CRM system, which incorporates years of buyer data, allowing the company to more effectively penetrate the secondary market. This technology not only streamlines client interactions but also improves the ability to quickly match buyers with suitable properties.

By leveraging this database, Unique Properties can better predict market trends and client preferences, delivering a more personalized and efficient service. Alongside the introduction of its dedicated call centre in October 2024, this technological advantage positions the company as a key player in the secondary real estate market, the statement concluded.

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WakeCap presented its suite of construction site management technology to the Kingdom’s Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, and said it aims to improve the safety of mining and manufacturing projects across the Kingdom. WakeCap’s technology has been adopted by more than 35 leading developments and projects, the firm said.

Dr. Hassan Albalawi, CEO and founder of WakeCap, presented the technology at the closing ceremony of the accelerator and industrial business incubator initiative Nomu, in the presence of Bandar I. Alkhorayef, the Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources; Mr. Khalil Ibn Salamah, the Deputy Minister for Industrial Affairs; Mr. Majid Alargoubi, CEO of the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones Modon; and Mr. Sami Alhussaini, Governor of the Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority Monshaat.

“We are honored by his excellent comments and endorsements, which not only validate our technology as crucial for setting new safety standards, but also signal a directive for mandating technology on major projects. Doing so will serve to promote transparency and ensure better compliance rates. This aligns perfectly with our mission to transform safety protocols and practices in the construction industry and beyond, leveraging Wakecap’s capabilities to forge a safer, more secure working environment for all,” stated Dr. Albalawi.

Wakecap’s standing is further emphasised by the ministry’s role as a board member in NCOSH, which positions WakeCap as a key player in shaping the future of occupational safety and health regulations, the statement noted.

The government’s strategy is to mandate safety and security in construction and related sectors and WakeCap’s technology will support these goals by enhancing emergency response times and providing data for compliance and incident investigation. WakeCap facilitates real-time monitoring of workers’ conditions, enabling instant alerts in the event of an emergency, which reduces response times, it added.

The data collected by WakeCap will ensure safety regulations, but also investigate incidents, identifying root causes, and implementing preventative measures to avoid future occurrences. This approach further supports the government’s commitment to not only mandate safety regulations, but to foster a culture of safety and accountability through data-driven insights and actions.

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Gensler has announced the appointment of Tariq Shaikh as Co-Managing Director for its Middle East offices. Tariq will join current Managing Director Tim Martin, the move is said to highlight the company’s commitment to growing in the region.

“We are thrilled to welcome Tariq into his new role. His visionary leadership, strategic acumen, and extensive experience in large-scale Middle Eastern projects will be incredibly valuable to our team. His deep understanding of the region’s complexities and opportunities will drive our efforts to expand Gensler’s presence and influence. We look forward to his contributions in steering our growth and continuing to deliver exceptional design solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients,” noted David Calkins, Co-Regional Managing Principal for Gensler’s Asia Pacific Middle East (APME) region.

Shaikh is said to bring over three decades of managing and delivering complex, large-scale projects across mixed-use, retail, and lifestyle markets in Europe and the Middle East. As the former Managing Director of Gensler’s Birmingham office for seven years, Tariq has a record of building and managing large teams, ensuring smooth project execution, and meeting the critical requirements of developers and tenants. His portfolio includes collaborations with major global brands and significant contributions to some of Gensler’s largest Middle Eastern projects, including The Avenues in Kuwait and Msheireb Downtown Doha in Qatar, the press release from Gensler explained.

Shaikh stated, “I am excited to step into this role and continue driving the region’s growth and expansion. The Middle East is a region of immense potential and opportunity, and I am eager to build on the strong foundation we have established. I look forward to collaborating with the team in the Middle East to deliver innovative design solutions and strengthen client partnerships, contributing to the region’s transformation and our firm’s sustained success.”

Based in Riyadh, Gensler’s newest office in the Middle East, Shaikh’s appointment is said to be part of the firm’s strategic initiatives, focusing on the Riyadh office in alignment with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 program. This appointment follows the appointment of Theresa Sheils as Co-Regional Managing Principal for Gensler APME.

“Gensler’s co-leadership model promotes a dynamic and collaborative work environment by encouraging interdisciplinary insight sharing. Tariq’s extensive market knowledge and proven track record will drive innovation and enhance our ability to adapt to evolving client and market needs. Together with Tim, I am confident they will elevate our operations in the Kingdom and solidify Gensler’s leadership in innovative design throughout the region,” commented Sheils.

As Gensler Middle East continues to broaden its expertise, the firm remains dedicated to strengthening client relationships and enhancing its market presence. The new leadership highlights Gensler’s commitment to delivering projects that address the diverse needs of Middle Eastern clients and create spaces across the region, the statement concluded.

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The Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi (DoE) introduced its regulatory roadmap for the products sector, with a focus on gas systems in residential, commercial, and industrial establishments, and called on stakeholders to unite in efforts to build safer communities across the emirate.

The presentation comes ahead of the DoE’s release of ‘Executive Regulations for Gas Systems’ and a unified gas code for residential, commercial and industrial sectors. The regulations will set wide ranging safety standards, protocols, and controls for all gas-related activities, as well as violations and penalties for non-compliance. It also establishes a DoE mandatory register of certified gas companies, engineers, operators and inspectors, said a statement from the DoE.

DoE said that it has been collaborating with other Abu Dhabi partners to issue key compliance documents such as the gas system certificate of completion, gas annual operation & maintenance contract, no objection certificate and LPG filling and withdrawal permits. This year alone, the DoE has issued more than 4,000 LPG filling permits.

Acting Director General for Regulation at DoE, Dr Saif Saeed Al Qubaisi emphasised the collective responsibility of both government and private sectors in shaping a safe, secure, and sustainable energy future for the emirate. “Safety is more than just a regulatory requirement; it is a shared responsibility that must be prioritised throughout the gas value chain. Gas is familiar in everyone’s life in Abu Dhabi, and it is imperative that it is used safely and responsibly by everyone in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors – from operators and contractors to food establishments and homeowners,” he noted.

Ahmed Alsheebani, Acting Petroleum Products Sector Executive Director at DoE who led over 20 site visits that reached over 120,000 stakeholders during the summer, expressed optimism about the progress of the sector. He commented, “I’m pleased to say that compliance to safety standards is encouraging. But much work remains to grow a culture of voluntary safety compliance.”

“Complying with safety protocols protects lives and the community. It also brings significant social and economic benefits, such as enhanced operational efficiency, improved business reputation, more reliable gas systems, cost savings and safer communities. Safety will always remain our number one priority and with government and private sectors’ stakeholders, we still have more to accomplish,” he continued.

In June this year, the DoE launched its ‘Petroleum and Gas Systems Summer Readiness Campaign’ to assist establishments in meeting safety standards, compliance requirements, and navigating upcoming regulatory transformation, the statement concluded.

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DUBAL Extrusion Investment (DEI), a wholly owned subsidiary of DUBAL Holding (DH), has completed a rooftop solar power generation project (phase I) at OSE Industries, a local aluminium extrusion company owned by DEI, in alignment with its commitment to sustainability and contributing to the UAE’s renewable energy goals.

The rooftop solar power project, executed by Emirates Electrical Engineering, went live in the beginning of July and is situated on the roof tops of buildings 1 and 2 of the OSE plant. With a rated capacity of 633 kilowatts peak (kWp), the system is expected to generate 1.1GWh of clean electricity annually.

The project is estimated to produce up to 12% of OSE Industries annual electricity power needs. In terms of its environmental impact, the annual generation of 1.1GWh of clean electricity can power a small town for several days or even a week, significantly reducing carbon emissions by 440,000kg of CO2 emissions and promoting sustainable practices, as per the press release.

Phase II of the project, covering the remaining buildings and service areas, is planned to be commissioned in 2025. The project exemplifies DEI’s commitment to advancing the UAE’s sustainability initiatives, including the DEWA SHAMS Dubai Initiative, Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, and UAE Net Zero 2050.

The project was executed under a Solar Lease Agreement, which cuts upfront costs and ensures a hassle-free approach on operation, maintenance, and affordable energy rates. The supplier handles checking the system’s performance, ensuring its cleanliness and maintenance, as well as availability of spare components. Preliminary data for July 2024 illustrates that the solar system produced 109.5MWh of electricity, 12 % of monthly demand, and contributing to a reduction of carbon emissions of 43,800kg of CO2 emissions, the statement said.

The rooftop solar power project installation is said to be a testament to DEI’s dedication to environmental responsibility and sustainable business practices. As the UAE continues to evolve and prioritise renewable energy, DEI is poised to support this major transition and play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future for the nation, the statement concluded.

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SSH will work work with Enevoria Development as the lead design consultant on Nobu Hotel and Residences. Located on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, the five-star hotel and residences plans to offer a blend of modern living and Japanese tradition.

With a built-up area of 70,000sqm the project aims to create a premium waterfront experience while contributing to Ras Al Khaimah’s present and future hospitality ambitions. Guests of the Nobu Hotel can look forward to Nobu Hospitality’s five-star service, dine in the brand’s Japanese cuisine, amenities, including spa and fitness facility, swimming pools, and Nobu by the Beach club, said a statement.

In addition to the hotel, the 200 Nobu-branded residences will introduce a lifestyle beach community to Ras al Khaimah. The development sits on a two-storey podium with landscaping and several pools. The two residential towers offer a range of living options, for bedroom, apartments and beachfront villas. It also features a wellness centre for residents, sports courts, and 150m of pristine beachfront access, it added.

SSH’s scope of work includes complete engineering services from the concept design stage onward and architectural services from the schematic design stage onward.

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The Federal Tax Authority (FTA) has approved a total of 30,920 applications for Value Added Tax (VAT) refunds worth a total of US $691m, submitted by Emirati citizens for taxes incurred on building new residences until the end of June 2024.

In comparison, by the end of H1 last year, the total number of approved applications amounted to 23,340, with a total value of US $419mn. This marks a 32.45% increase in the number of approved applications and a 65.07% increase in the value of refunded amounts over a period of 12 months.

The FTA explained that in the year between the end of June 2023 and the end of June 2024, 7,580 new applications were approved, allowing citizens to reclaim over $272,200 in taxes they paid on building new homes. In the first six months of this year, 3,590 new applications were approved, refunding $91.48mn in taxes.

Companies are increasingly adopting technology to increase productivity and create more value for end customers. In this respect, modular construction shifts 90% of building activities to offsite manufacturing, accelerating project timelines by 20 to 50% and cutting costs by 20%. Furthermore, it has been observed that the rise of multiple mid- to late-stage offsite construction start-ups are pushing the modular-homes space forward. Such new entrants making new bets and new funding from venture capital and private equity are also accelerating the disruption of current business models. As the Covid-19 pandemic unfolds, an increase in corporate restructuring and M&A activity is to be expected.

Khalid Ali Al Bustani, Director-General of the FTA, attributed the significant increase in the number of UAE citizens benefiting from the Tax Refund Scheme to an increased tax awareness and continuous improvements made by the Authority to the service since its launch six years ago.

“These enhancements include introducing more facilities to streamline and expedite the refund process for UAE citizens who meet the legal requirements for tax refunds,” he said.

Additionally, the FTA launched its Maskan smart application this year, providing further facilities for UAE citizens to request refunds on VAT incurred on the construction of their new homes, using 100% digital and paperless procedures.

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Source: ME Construction News