Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) and Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) have announced plans to build the world’s first large-scale ‘round the clock’ giga-scale project, combining solar power and battery storage.

In the presence of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the project was launched by Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Chairman of Masdar, and Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Minister of Investment. The launch marks a pivotal moment in the UAE’s clean energy transformation, allowing renewable energy to be dispatched 24 hours a day, seven days a week, reaffirming the country’s position as a global pioneer in renewable energy deployment.

Delivering up to one gigawatt (GW) of base load power every day – generated from renewable energy – it will be the largest combined solar and battery energy storage system (BESS) in the world. Located in Abu Dhabi, the project will feature a 5.2GW (DC) solar photovoltaic (PV) plant, coupled with a 19 gigawatt-hour (GWh) BESS, setting a global benchmark in clean energy innovation.

Dr Sultan Al Jaber said, “For decades, the biggest barrier facing renewable energy has been intermittency – to be able to source uninterrupted clean power day and night. This has been the moonshot challenge of our time, and now, thanks to the resolute support of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with this groundbreaking project we have found the solution.”

“In collaboration with EWEC and our partners, we will develop a renewable energy facility capable of providing clean energy round the clock. For the first time ever, this will transform renewable energy into a world-leading 1GW of reliable baseload energy every day on an unprecedented scale – a first step that could become a giant leap for the world.”

Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi commented, “The accelerated integration of solar power and advanced battery energy storage sets a new benchmark in clean energy, driving sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. By advancing energy infrastructure, we are leading the way in developing cost-effective, scalable renewable energy, solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a key player in shaping the future of global energy. Guided by the UAE leadership, this united effort within the energy sector powers the nation’s technological advancement, ushering in a new era of intelligence, resilience, flexibility, and commercial opportunity while ensuring sustainable and uninterrupted energy for exponential growth.”

Othman Al Ali, Chief Executive Officer of EWEC added, “By launching the world’s largest solar PV and Battery Energy Storage System, Abu Dhabi is setting a new global standard for sustainable energy development and innovation. This landmark project embodies EWEC’s unwavering commitment to decarbonising the energy sector, while driving the UAE’s socioeconomic growth. As the backbone of the nation’s clean energy transition, this facility supports critical industries such as AI and advanced technologies, ensuring their power needs are met sustainably and reliably.”

“This project not only underscores Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a leader in utility-scale renewable energy innovation but also cements EWEC’s role in ensuring energy security for future generations. Collaborating with partners like Masdar and TAQA Transmission to facilitate the development of network infrastructure enables the achievement of our transformational milestones that accelerate the UAE’s journey to achieving its Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative,” he added.

The solar PV and BESS facility will provide unparalleled stability and efficiency by overcoming the intermittency challenges of renewable energy. The 19GWh battery storage facility will enable seamless integration of solar power into the grid.

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UAE-based Mira Developments and the ARAV Group, the firm behind the John Richmond brand, have announced a global partnership. The partnership will see the development of fully furnished residences, five-star hotels, and cafes, the first projects will be across the UAE, in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah.

Each development will combine John Richmond’s design philosophy with Mira Developments’ expertise in delivering fully furnished luxury homes, hotel-style services, and designed community spaces.

Every John Richmond-branded property will embody the brand’s aesthetic, inspired by the energy of rock ‘n’ roll and an exploration of street culture. These residences will showcase bold designs, premium materials, and innovative details that define the brand’s signature style.

Art installations and upscale furnishings, developed in collaboration with FormItalia Luxury Group, will further enhance the environment, blending fashion and interior design.

John Richmond commented: “When I was sixteen, I was accepted at Manchester University to study architecture. At the last minute, I changed my mind and went to London to study fashion. I never lost my love of architecture, and to be involved in this venture is like all my dreams come true.”

“We are thrilled to bring John Richmond’s distinctive aesthetic to the world of luxury living,” said Mena Marano, CEO of ARAV Group and proprietor of the brand. “This partnership marks an exciting milestone, showcasing how fashion and lifestyle can converge to redefine sophistication.”

Tamara Getigezheva, Co-founder of Mira Group stated, “Mira Developments is delighted to partner with John Richmond and the ARAV Group, bringing the brand’s distinctive fashion-forward vision to our luxury properties. Together, we will create spaces that seamlessly blend rebellious energy with refined elegance and exceptional craftsmanship.”

With new properties in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah, Mira Developments continues to redefine living with its unique approach to fully furnished branded properties and premium services like complimentary valet parking and free housekeeping.

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Kuwait Real Estate Company (Aqarat), in collaboration with IFA Hotels and Resorts, has launched the Al Tay Hills project in Sharjah. The project, with a total cost of US $952.9mn, spans over six million sqft and includes 1,100 villas and townhouses with diverse designs and sizes to meet various client needs.

The units range from three to six bedrooms, each featuring private pools and modern designs combining luxury and comfort. The first phase of the project’s three phases is scheduled for delivery in the first quarter of 2028.

Al Tay Hills is being developed in a strategic location near the Sharjah Grand Mosque and directly on Emirates Road, at the main intersection bordering Dubai. The project is said to be minutes away from Dubai International Airport, Downtown Dubai, and Sharjah International Airport.

Al Tay Hills has the longest ‘green river’ in the UAE, serving as the natural lung and central artery of the development. This river stretches over 2.5km and features extensive green, landscaped spaces. The river serves as the project’s arterial park, offering residents and visitors stunning views, fresh air, and a number of relaxation and recreational zones.

At Tay will offer a comprehensive array of facilities and services, including playgrounds for adults and children, a mosque, restaurants, cafes, retail outlets, swimming pools, and dedicated walking and cycling paths totaling 11km. This creates an exceptional living experience that merges modern life with nature, said a statement.

Ibrahim Saleh Al-Therban, Chairman, Kuwait Real Estate Company said, “We are delighted with the Al-Tay project, which is one of Aqarat’s largest and most ambitious projects. We hope Al-Tay Hills achieves significant sales success, especially as it combines modern designs with a strategic location, making it an exceptional opportunity for both investors and residents alike.”

Khaled Esbaitah, Chairman of IFA Hotels and Resorts, commented, “We are proud to announce our latest expansion in the UAE’s real estate portfolio, building on the company’s successes and track record in project development. We are now transferring our distinguished expertise in land development, gained from local, regional, and global markets, to the emirate of Sharjah. The Al Tay Hills reflects our vision of blending Sharjah’s values and traditions with a distinctive modern environment that provides homeowners with safe and sustainable living conditions that align with the highest global standards, while preserving the Emirate’s rich traditions.”

The development blends modern architectural designs with scenic nature, offering a serene and harmonious lifestyle. It reflects Sharjah’s vision of promoting a sustainable green environment that protects nature and biodiversity, the company said.

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Etihad Rail has introduced the region’s first-ever ‘CO2 Emission Avoidance and Reduction Certificates’, an innovative initiative that highlights the environmental benefits of rail transport for its customers.

This significant milestone reinforces Etihad Rail’s role as a key contributor to the UAE’s climate change agenda, aligning with the nation’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategy through a transparent Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), said a statement from the company.

The certificates – powered by EcoTransIT, a tool for assessing the environmental impact of transport- quantify and validate the carbon savings businesses achieved by choosing rail over alternative transport modes, directly contributing to the UAE’s decarbonisation goals. Using EcoTransIT’s accredited methodology, the certificates calculate CO2 Equivalents (CO2e) by factoring in direct emissions from diesel and indirect emissions from biofuels (where applicable).

The process includes Well-to-Wheel (WTW) analysis, covering the full lifecycle of fuel use – from extraction to combustion – ensuring an accurate measurement of the environmental impact of each tonne-kilometre transported. It also accounts for cargo weight and distance using shipment-specific data and geocoordinates. For comparison, rail freight emissions are calculated in comparison to truck emissions, providing a clear basis to highlight rail’s environmental advantages.

By launching these certificates, Etihad Rail is empowering its customers by providing credible and tangible data that reflects the positive environmental impact of their shift from road to rail. This initiative not only supports businesses’ ESG objectives and commitments but also presents an opportunity to showcase their leadership in environmental stewardship, said the company.

By adopting rail as a primary mode of transport, companies can align their operations with the ‘Reduction of Climate Change Effects’, ensuring compliance with national climate regulations while advancing their sustainability goals. These certificates allow customers to enhance their corporate sustainability reports, improve ESG Ratings, attract environmentally conscious stakeholders.

“At Etihad Rail, sustainability is not just a commitment – it is a cornerstone of our identity and operations. The introduction of our CO2 Emission Avoidance and Reduction Certificates underscores our dedication to pioneering climate action and delivering tangible value to our customers. This initiative empowers businesses to take active roles in reducing their carbon footprint, while leveraging the unparalleled efficiency and reliability of rail transport. By aligning with the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategy and the UAE Climate Change law, we are driving transformative change in the logistics sector, building a more sustainable future for the UAE and the region,” said Omar Alsebeyi, Executive Director of Commercial & Performance of Etihad Rail.

He added: “The introduction of Etihad Rail’s CO2 Emission Avoidance and Reduction Certificates presents a unique value proposition for our customers. As businesses increasingly prioritise environmental responsibility, these certificates not only allow them to align their operations with the UAE’s decarbonisation goals but also demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. We’re proud to be part of this pioneering initiative that is rapidly becoming a key market differentiator, helping us attract and retain customers focused on reducing their environmental impact while enhancing their logistics operations.”

Etihad Rail aims to transport 60m tonnes of cargo annually by 2030, contributing to the UAE’s economic diversification, enhancing supply chain resilience, and contributing to its climate targets. Etihad Rail’s operations are projected to reduce CO2 emissions from the UAE’s road transport sector by 21% annually by 2050, taking up to 300 trucks off the roads for every train journey and removing 8.2m tonnes of CO2 per year.

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Building on the success of its flagship Mirdif Hills development, Dubai Investments has announced Asayel Avenue – a premium residential cluster that aims to redefine modern urban living, through Dubai Investment Real Estate (DIR), the real estate arm of Dubai Investments.

Positioned as an integral extension of the Mirdif Hills project, Asayel Avenue sets new benchmarks for sophisticated, community-focused lifestyles in Dubai. Inspired by the architectural synergy of Nasayem, Janayen, and Al Multaqa Avenues, Asayel Avenue integrates into the established Mirdif Hills framework. Featuring 193 designed residential units the project will offer a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments which will combine luxury, and functionality, with larger living spaces and natural light, said a statement.

The project is set to begin construction in Q2 2025, with completion scheduled for Q2 2027. This timeline underscores Dubai Investment Real Estate’s commitment to deliver developments in Dubai’s urban landscape.

“Asayel Avenue is a cornerstone in the continued evolution of Mirdif Hills, embodying a seamless blend of modern living, luxury, and accessibility,” said Obaid Salami, General Manager of Dubai Investment Real Estate (DIR). “True to the vision of Mirdif Hills, this new cluster prioritises green integration and balanced lifestyles, addressing the growing demand for premium residential options in Dubai. With upscale apartments and state-of-the-art amenities, Asayel Avenue offers a thoughtfully designed urban sanctuary, setting a new standard for sophisticated, community-centric living.”

Asayel Avenue presents range of features designed to elevate modern living. With optimised layouts and smart storage solutions, the residences caters to contemporary lifestyles, while premium finishes, including upscaled interiors, luxurious lobbies, and artwork to enhance the living experience.

Residents can enjoy fitness centres and recreational areas offering a balance between work and leisure. Additionally, the development integrates smart living solutions, security systems and technology-enabled conveniences, the statement concluded.

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AD Ports Group a facilitator of global trade, logistics, and industry, signed a Foundation Agreement with SEMURG INVEST (Semurg), the owner and developer of the Sarzha Multifunctional Marine Terminal at Kuryk Port, Kazakhstan. Sarzha Grain Terminal will see a total investment of US $50mn over the two phases, with AD Ports Group contributing around $30mn.

Under the terms of this agreement, AD Ports Group owns a 51% stake and Semurg owns a 49% stake in the Sarzha Grain Terminal. The firms have commenced construction of a greenfield grain terminal at Kuryk Port. Following the completion of phase one, this grain terminal will have the capacity to handle 570,000t of grain cargo per year. With the construction of phase two, the terminal’s capacity is set to expand further, reaching 1.5m tons per year.

With phase 1 scheduled for completion in the second half of 2026, Sarzha Grain Terminal is set to enhance global food trade, connecting Kazakhstan via the Transcaspian International Transport Route with Europe through a network of sea and dry ports in Central Asia.

Abdulaziz Zayed Al-Shamsi, Regional CEO of AD Ports Group said, “Our partnership with Semurg marks another key milestone in AD Ports Group’s Middle Corridor strategy and reinforces our commitment to global food security and the UAE’s National Strategy for Food Security. This investment demonstrates our group’s dedication to expanding our presence in Central Asia, and in Kazakhstan in particular.”

He added, “Sarzha Grain Terminal will not only boost grain trade and handling at Kuryk Port but also, by leveraging modern technologies and sustainable practices, we aim to establish a resilient and reliable food supply chain to meet the growing demand of the global population. This project embodies our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and strategic growth.”

Nurzhan Marabayev, General Director, SEMURG INVEST added, “Our partnership with AD Ports Group marks a new impulse for the development of the Middle Corridor and confirms SEMURG INVEST’s commitment to continue further development and execute the transport and logistics potential development roadmap until 2030 approved by the government of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The project is aimed at diversifying export routes for Kazakhstan goods, increase export and transit potential of the Transcaspian route and develop Mangystau region economy.”

This partnership was initially announced in August 2023, follows AD Ports Group and its recent ventures in the Central Asian region, driven by their strategic priority to enhance the transportation of resources to global markets, while connecting diverse regions and fostering economic growth.

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Hilton announced the signing of a partnership deal with Al Sorouh Hospitality Development Real Estate for the launch of its debut Waldorf Astoria property in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Located in the heart of capital Manama, Waldorf Astoria Bahrain Bay will bring the top Hilton brand’s signature service and sophisticated accommodations to one of the capital’s most exclusive districts.

With this launch, it joins three other Hilton properties currently operating in the Kingdom. Waldorf Astoria Bahrain Bay will feature 120 elegantly designed rooms and apartments and is scheduled to open in 2028. Part of the hotel’s signature service will entail each guest being assigned a Personal Concierge who will meticulously attend to every detail of their stay from pre-arrival to post-departure.

Waldorf Astoria Bahrain Bay will be located next to The Avenues – Bahrain, a premier waterfront shopping and leisure destination which includes a mix of luxury retail, high-street shopping and entertainment areas, it stated. The premium property will also be in close proximity to Bahrain Financial Harbour, the country’s main commercial district, and will have easy access to the highways which connect Bahrain to Saudi Arabia.

Chris Nassetta, President & CEO, Hilton, commented on the group’s partnership with Al Sorouh Hospitality Development Real Estate, which will to introduce Waldorf Astoria to Bahrain for the first time.

“As Bahrain continues to grow and diversify its tourism offerings we see tremendous opportunities to expand our portfolio. Waldorf Astoria Bahrain Bay will embody the luxury and excellence that travellers expect from our globally renowned brand. We eagerly anticipate the opening of this magnificent new property in the coming years,” he stated.

Building on Waldorf Astoria’s legacy of culinary excellence, the hotel will offer a carefully curated range of food and beverage options including a brasserie, a specialty rooftop bar and the brand’s famed Peacock Alley. The property will also feature elevated amenities including two pools, a fitness centre, a spa and three state-of-the-art meeting rooms equipped with the latest technology.

Mohammed Alshaya, Chairman of Al Sorouh Hospitality Development Real Estate said, “We are pleased to once again partner with Hilton to bring Waldorf Astoria’s iconic hospitality to the region. Waldorf Astoria Bahrain Bay will be part of the Phase 2 extension of The Avenues – Bahrain and will play a key role as we endeavour to make the development one of the most sought-after destinations for shoppers and travellers in the country and beyond.”

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Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) has announced its entry into the Philippines market, signing agreements with the government of the Philippines to develop one gigawatt (GW) of clean energy projects to strengthen its growing portfolio in Southeast Asia.

The Implementation Agreement with the Department of Energy and the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Board of Investments of the Republic of the Philippines covers the development of solar, wind and battery energy storage systems (BESS) with a total capacity of up to 1GW by 2030.

The agreement, which will support the Philippines Energy Transition Program to achieve 35% renewable energy in power generation by 2030 and 50% by 2040, operationalises the MoU on Energy Transition Cooperation signed in November 2024 between the Philippines and the UAE, during the working visit of Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to the country, which identified renewable energy as an area of collaboration.

Dr Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Chairman of Masdar said: “This partnership marks a new chapter in the longstanding relationship between the UAE and the Philippines. By leveraging the UAE’s world-class expertise in renewable energy and the Philippines’ abundant natural resources, this agreement will create jobs, drive low-carbon socio-economic progress and expand global renewable energy capacity in line with the UAE Consensus.”

Raphael P. M. Lotilla, Secretary of Energy at the Philippines Department of Energy commented: “Building on the longstanding ties between our nations and the recent Energy Transition Cooperation agreement, we welcome Masdar’s proven leadership and expertise in delivering utility-scale renewable energy solutions. This collaboration will significantly advance our goal of achieving 35% renewable energy in power generation by 2030.”

Ceferino S. Rodolfo, Undersecretary at the Philippines Department of Trade and Industry, and Board of Investments Managing Head, commented, “It is inspiring to witness the strengthening of the bilateral relations between our countries, following the visit of Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos to UAE last year and a series of reciprocal ministerial missions thereafter.”

“The partnership with Masdar is a testament to our mutual commitment to fostering a dynamic and sustainable economic future, and our shared vision for economic sustainability and prosperity. This aligns seamlessly with the Philippine strategy to position ourselves as a smart and sustainable hub for manufacturing and services in Southeast Asia,” he added.

Masdar Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi said, “We welcome this announcement as a significant expansion of Masdar’s activities in Southeast Asia, a key strategic market in our ongoing efforts to achieve a renewable energy capacity of 100GW by 2030. With our proven success in implementing large-scale renewable energy projects in the region and worldwide, we look forward to utilising our expertise and experience to support the Philippines in meeting its ambitious renewable energy goals.”

The agreement marks Masdar’s entry into the renewables sector in the Philippines. The company has developed the floating solar facility in Indonesia – the 145MW Cirata Floating Solar PV plant – generating enough electricity to power 50,000 homes. In February 2023, it entered geothermal energy sector through investment in Pertamina Geothermal Energy. Masdar also signed a landmark agreement with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority in 2023 for the development of 10GW of clean energy projects across the country.

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ABB announced the acquisition of Lumin, a US-based provider of responsive energy management systems, to expand its home energy management capabilities in the North American residential sector. The acquisition follows a minority investment by ABB into the company in 2023.

The acquisition brings Lumin’s solutions for electrification, as well as solar and storage systems, into ABB’s portfolio, creating residential energy management offering in North America. With the addition of Lumin’s technology, ABB is positioned to meet the growing demand for home electrification solutions in the US, where approximately 48m existing homes require electrification upgrades – a number that increases significantly when including new construction and other North American markets.

Lumin has made a name for itself by developing energy management solutions. Its highly flexible platform allows for the integration of any brand of load centres, battery systems and generators. It also provides deep insights into behind-the-metre consumption and dynamically manages energy loads – such as electric vehicle chargers, hot tubs and heat pumps – paving the way for more efficient and sustainable communities.

This acquisition supports ABB’s growth strategy in the North American residential market, where electrification and renewable energy are driving increased demand. With Lumin’s hardware and cloud-based software capabilities – including a mobile app for homeowners and installers – ABB can provide smarter, safer and more sustainable home energy solutions.

“We’re excited to welcome Lumin into the ABB family at a time when electrification across North America is a transformative mega trend, by acquiring Lumin, we gain not only an advanced product portfolio but also access to key partnerships within residential-renewable-focused organisations – an essential move in driving future innovations for smart homes and communities across the region,” said Mike Mustapha, President of ABB Electrification’s Smart Buildings Division.

“Joining ABB is an exciting step for Lumin. We’re fully aligned with ABB’s mission to drive innovation, sustainability, and smarter energy solutions. This is an incredible opportunity to scale our platform and make energy management even more accessible to homeowners across North America. As part of ABB, we’ll help empower homeowners to reduce energy waste, integrate renewable energy sources, and create more sustainable, efficient communities,” said Alex Bazhinov, Lumin’s Founder and President.

Electricity plays a significant role in residential energy consumption in North America, accounting for 44% in the US and nearly 46% in Canada. In the coming years this share is expected to grow with residential electricity consumption in the US projected to increase by 14% to 22% between 2022 and 2050. These trends present a strong opportunity for ABB’s newly acquired solutions to make all-electric homes more affordable for builders and to help homeowners maximize their energy efficiency.

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QUBE Development has announced the groundbreaking of its project, Arisha Terraces, in Dubai Studio City. The developer says that Phase 1 of the project is sold out and construction works have begun.

Arisha Terraces is set for completion in 2027 and will feature 414 residential units across four low-rise buildings. The project offers a range of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. All apartments are fitted with Bosch appliances, integrated smart home systems featuring environmental sensors to promote energy efficiency, and balconies or terraces, with select apartments including pergolas for privacy and outdoor enjoyment.

Elio Badr, Sales Director at QUBE Development commented, “Breaking ground on Arisha Terraces is a proud moment for QUBE Development. It combines thoughtful design, modern amenities, and vibrant community spaces in the heart of Dubai Studio City. This unique offering helped make the selling out of Phase 1 of the development a reality. With high rental yields, increasing demand for affordable housing, and ongoing infrastructure improvements, the area presents strong potential for both short-term rental income and long-term capital appreciation.”

The project’s design is anchored around a central courtyard, offering spaces for social interaction and recreation. Additionally, the two-level community centre will feature a cinema, co-working spaces, a library and a shared kitchen.

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