TAQA Distribution, a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA) and Aldar have entered a strategic partnership to support the development of sustainable, integrated communities in Abu Dhabi.

The agreement was signed by Omar Al Hashmi, CEO, TAQA Distribution, and Adel Abdulla Albreiki, CEO, Aldar Projects.

Under the agreement, TAQA Distribution and Aldar will assess areas of cooperation across Aldar’s infrastructure portfolio, with a focus on enhancing utility delivery and long-term operational efficiency for the benefit of future projects in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.

TAQA Distribution will contribute its strong expertise in planning, implementing, and operating utility networks across various phases of infrastructure development. This includes providing interim and permanent electricity and water supply solutions, evaluating infrastructure designs, supporting the implementation of private utility networks, and identifying opportunities to integrate innovative, sustainable, and energy-efficient technologies. The partnership also aims to enhance cost-efficiency and improve the overall management of utility services through the deployment of advanced digital tools and analytics.

Omar Al Hashmi explained, “This agreement enables us to align with a key development partner in Abu Dhabi to deliver reliable, future-ready infrastructure that meets the evolving needs of the emirate’s growing population. By leveraging our operational excellence, sustainable practices, and customer-centric utility services, we aim to support Aldar in building high-quality, connected communities. This collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting national priorities and delivering tangible value to the communities we serve across the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.”

Adel Abdulla Albreikiadded added, “As a key partner of the Abu Dhabi government, Aldar is committed to ensuring the emirate retains its position as one of the world’s most desirable locations to live, work, and visit. The delivery of key infrastructure is critical and with TAQA’s partnership we will be able to deliver projects that are more integrated, efficient, and sustainable, serving the best interests of all those who call Abu Dhabi home.”

The agreement also opens the door to the adoption of digital innovations in utility services, including condition monitoring, predictive maintenance, and data-driven performance management.

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Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) and the Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat) have signed a MoU with a view to advancing environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives in support of the Kingdom’s sustainability goals.

The agreement outlines joint efforts to enhance energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and balance economic and environmental priorities. Key initiatives include a specialised research study to identify the optimal energy mix for Alba’s operations and the development of a unified ESG framework. A joint task force of experts from both organisations will lead these efforts.

The agreement was signed on 27 August at Derasat’s Awali headquarters by Alba CEO Ali Al Baqali and Derasat CEO Abdulla Mohamed Alahmed, in the presence of senior representatives from both organisations.

Ali Al Baqali commented, “This MoU with Derasat is a testament to Alba’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation. By combining our industrial expertise with Derasat’s research capabilities, we are laying the groundwork for transformative ESG initiatives that will not only benefit Alba but also contribute to Bahrain’s national goals”.

“Together, we aim to pioneer solutions in renewable energy and carbon reduction that are both economically viable and environmentally responsible,” he added.

Abdulla Mohamed Alahmed concluded, “Through advanced mathematical modelling and scenario analysis conducted by our Artificial Intelligence and Renewable Energy Lab (AIRE Lab), we aim to deliver practical, data-driven solutions that support Bahrain’s long-term economic competitiveness and environmental goals.”

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According to a new report by JLL, Saudi Arabia’s residential market is showing signs of increasing maturity, with several urban centres demonstrating significant increases in rental rates.

JLL’s ‘KSA Living Market Dynamics – Q2 2025’ shows these trends as being fuelled by evolving end-user needs and a growing preference for affordable apartment living. New levels of market activity are also underpinned by the Kingdom’s ambitious urban development projects under the Vision 2030 agenda, which continue to attract substantial investments into the key residential markets of Riyadh, Jeddah and the Dammam Metropolitan Area. These investments are further propelled by population growth, economic diversification, and the government’s home ownership initiatives, the firm said.

The report also highlights the strategic impact of master-planned communities as the growing demand for integrated living environments shapes future supply, particularly in Riyadh and Jeddah.

Saud Al Sulaimani, Country Lead and Head of Capital Markets, JLL Saudi Arabia said, “The Saudi Arabian residential market is maturing, reflecting a dynamic landscape driven by the Kingdom’s broader objectives to meet end-user needs. While ongoing government initiatives have led to strong underlying demand, the sector is poised for further evolution and diversification, catalysed by the upcoming foreign ownership law to be implemented in January 2026. This legislation is expected to invigorate the sector and boost real estate supply, attracting international developers and investors to the Saudi market, thereby opening a broader range of opportunities for all stakeholders across the Kingdom.”

JLL’s analysis reveals compelling performance indicators across the Kingdom, with Riyadh’s residential market continuing to show positive momentum, demonstrating a 15.1% surge in villa prices and a 13.3% increase in apartment prices in Q2 2025. Rental rates in the capital climbed by 13.9% annually for villas, while apartment rents rose by 6.9%.

Jeddah’s market showed a more fragmented performance. Although villa prices rose by a modest 4.4% annually, apartment prices experienced a slight 3.0% decline over the same period. In the rental market, Jeddah’s apartment rents increased by 2.4% annually, while villa rents decreased by 2.8%.

JLL’s report also provided insights into the distinct landscape of the residential market in the Dammam Metropolitan Area, encompassing Dammam, Al Khobar, and Jubail. With waterfrontage and fair weather, it is a popular destination for waterfront homes among the Saudi population. This is reflected in the growing demand for high-end residential developments offering a broad range of community and recreational amenities, including green spaces such as parks.

Al Khobar, known for its high-quality compounds and villas, saw apartment prices increase by 5.8% and villa prices by 2.2% annually. In Dammam, which has more apartment assets, prices remained relatively stable for apartments, while villa prices recorded a marginal increase of 1.8% annually.

The Kingdom’s prime urban areas showcased varied transactional dynamics, according to JLL’s latest report. Jeddah and Al Khobar recorded increased sales transactions, underscoring strong market activity in these regions, while Riyadh and Dammam experienced slight declines.

In the capital, total sales transactions decreased by 1.5% in the year to Q2. Of the 2,758 transactions recorded, apartments were in the majority (81.3%). An Narjis emerged as the most popular area for apartment transactions (21.9%), while Al Yasmeen led in terms of villa transactions (21.9%).

The volume of residential transactions in Jeddah increased by a significant 46.1% year-on-year to Q2 2025, totaling 1,100, with Al Marwah being the preferred area for apartment transactions (26.1%) and Ar Rawdah for villa transactions (17.0%). Al Khobar saw a marked 23.7% increase in sales transactions, while total sales transactions in Dammam decreased by 6.7% year-on-year to Q2 2025. Apartments comprised the majority of these transactions in both cities.

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Arada has launched Masaar 3, the latest and largest master plan of its forest community. Comprising 4,000 villas and townhouses spread across eight gated neighborhoods, Masaar 3 is set to raise the benchmark once again with its blend of expansive woodlands, immersive wellness facilities and the promise of smart, active living, the developer said in its statement.

With a total expected sales value of US $3.4bn, Masaar 3 will be delivered in eight phases, spread across a 21m sqft plot. Offering a mix of units from two- to five-bedroom homes, construction is set to commence in early 2026 and the first homes are scheduled for completion in 2027.

“Masaar has become one of the UAE’s most distinctive residential success stories. With every new community, we are reinforcing our commitment to wellness-led design, premium facilities and delivering homes that put families and nature first,” said HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal, Executive Vice Chairman of Arada.

The project’s amenities are said to be designed to elevate everyday life, with a central lagoon pool featuring landscaped waterfalls, a gym and café forming a focal point for the community. The green spine will be home to more than 100,000 trees, interlaced with jogging and cycling tracks, wellness areas and shaded walking trails.

Residents will also enjoy district-specific facilities such as pools, padel and basketball courts, and children’s play areas, alongside a vibrant community centre, offering retail and dining outlets, plus a Zad food truck park. Family-friendly attractions include an adventure playground and a duck pond, while every home in Masaar 3 comes equipped with smart systems and premium appliances as standard, the developer said.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada added, “Masaar 3 builds on our experience and ongoing design refinement, as well as a deep understanding of what residents and investors want. The success of the Masaar brand is emblematic of growing buyer demand for sustainable, family-friendly living environments that also deliver capital appreciation and long-term value.”

Based in the Rowdat district of Sharjah, Masaar 3 is located between Masaar 2 and a fast-growing schools district, already home to two operational large-scale schools. Masaar 3 is also close to the original Masaar community, Tilal City and Sharjah Mosque, and offers excellent connectivity, with direct access to Khorfakkan Road, and proximity to Emirates Road (E611). Sharjah International Airport is 15 minutes away and Dubai International Airport is just 30 minutes away by car, the developer outlined.

Highlighting Masaar’s significance as a landmark development, HH Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, toured the community in September 2024, where he reviewed the newly completed homes and experienced firsthand the exceptional woodland environment that have set a new standard for residential living in the Emirate.

The first two Masaar communities, which together amount to 5,000 villas and townhouses are both sold out. More than 1,500 homes have already been delivered in the first Masaar community, with the remainder scheduled to be completed by the end of 2026. The first homes in Masaar 2 are on track for delivery in 2027, with the entire community set for completion by the end of 2028, the developer concluded.

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Maaden Bauxite and Alumina Company (MBAC), a subsidiary of Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Maaden), has signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) with Emerge, the joint venture (JV) between Masdar and EDF power solutions. Under this deal, Emerge will develop a solar power project to supply the Al Baitha Bauxite Mine with clean, renewable energy for the next 30 years.

The off-grid energy facility will integrate a ground-mounted 8MWp solar photovoltaic array with a 30MWh battery energy storage system backing up the intermittency of the solar production. This arrangement will secure a 24/7 electricity supply.

The facility is expected to generate approximately 17,300MWh of electricity annually. The project will help avoid around 13,800t of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions per year, equivalent to removing more than 3,000 cars from the road annually. With this facility, the Al Baitha Bauxite Mine will be able to operate almost entirely on renewable energy, marking a major step toward sustainable mining operations.

This initiative supports Saudi Arabia’s energy transition and aligns with the goals of Vision 2030 by reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable industrial growth, it stated.

Ali Al Qahtani, Executive Vice-President of Maaden’s aluminum business said, “This partnership supports our ambitions to drive renewable energy across our operations, as well as reinforcing our committment to advancing sustainable solutions that benefit both our businesses and the communities we serve. We look forward to working with Emerge to deliver this integral pillar of our operations.”

Abdulaziz Alobaidli, Chairman of Emerge and Chief Operating Officer at Masdar added, “Emerge offers businesses a seamless, cost-effective pathway to transform to renewable energy. This partnership demonstrates the value Emerge brings to industries looking to decarbonise and optimise their energy usage.”

As per the deal, Emerge will deliver a full turnkey solution for the project, managing all aspects, including financing, design, procurement, construction, operation, and maintenance.

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Egis has been appointed as the Site Supervision Consultant (SSC) for the revitalisation of the King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC) Transit System. The move is said to mark a pivotal advancement in Riyadh’s urban mobility landscape.

The resumption of the 3.6km monorail system will complement KAFD’s innovative mobility infrastructure, which includes the world’s longest skywalk network, enabling seamless connectivity throughout the district, said a statement from Egis.

The monorail is integrated with the broader Riyadh Metro, where Egis, as part of the Riyadh Metro Transit Consultants (RMTC) consortium, was responsible for supervising the project management, design, and construction of the project, delivering the network’s Blue, Red and Orange lines (Lines 1, 2 and 3), on behalf of The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC), the statement added.

As the SSC, Egis will assume a comprehensive oversight role, ensuring meticulous execution across multiple engineering disciplines. This includes supervision of rolling stock, rail systems, civil and structural works, MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing), architecture, utilities, and landscaping.

Egis is also responsible for reviewing and approving shop drawings, method statements, and material submittals, while overseeing critical compliance and quality control processes throughout the project’s construction phase.

“This project is emblematic of KAFD’s commitment to next-generation urban infrastructure, aligning with the Kingdom’s development ambitions under Vision 2030. By leveraging our deep expertise in rail and transit system supervision, we are poised to drive the successful execution of the KAFD Transit System, ensuring it embodies the highest standards of operational efficiency, sustainability, and design excellence, while at the same time support the Kingdom’s commitments to carbon reduction,” said Mohamed Ben Messaoud the Country Managing Director for Egis in Saudi Arabia.

The KAFD Transit System is set to deliver a future-ready, efficient, and sustainable transport solution tailored to the needs of a modern business and lifestyle hub, setting new standards in urban design and mobility. The monorail will consist of six two-car trains operating on an elevated one-way loop, equipped with six strategically located stations embedded within public buildings, the statement outlined.

“We are thrilled to resume KAFD’s monorail service, which delivers seamless connectivity across the entire district and complements our multimodal mobility options, creating a unique 10-minute city for the district’s office workers, residents and visitors to effortlessly experience all that KAFD has to offer” said Faddy AlAql, Chief Asset Delivery Officer at KAFD DMC.

He added, “The upgraded service reflects our commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies to provide a comfortable, convenient and efficient transportation network that encourages the adoption of public transportation, reducing KAFD’s environmental footprint and setting new standards in livability.”

A key strategic initiative within Riyadh’s evolving transport ecosystem, the KAFD monorail is designed to enhance accessibility, furthering KAFD’s status as a pedestrian-centric 10-minute city, that reimagines urban mobility for the cities of the future. Its integration with the Riyadh Metro will further streamline transit options for professionals, residents, and visitors, reducing congestion and fostering a more connected urban core, while reinforcing Riyadh’s standing as a leader in progressive urban development, the statement concluded.

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AMEA Power in partnership with Cox, a water and energy focused company, has signed a cooperation agreement with the Ministry of Energy and Water of Angola (MINEA). The deal will see the development of a large seawater desalination plant on the Mussulo Peninsula, which will have a capacity of 100,000m3 per day and will supply water to approximately 800,000 people.

The agreement was signed in the presence of His Excellency Salem Ali Khamis Obaid Al Shamsi, the United Arab Emirates Ambassador to Angola, by João Baptista Borges, Angola’s Minister of Energy and Water; Ignacio Carreras, Head of PtX at AMEA Power; and Emiliano Agustín Espinoza Labbé, Chief Africa, Middle East & Asia at Cox.

“Our partnership with MINEA represents a transformative step toward securing sustainable and climate-resilient water for Angola. Today marks an important milestone made possible by the strong support of the UAE government. This landmark project showcases the power of public-private collaboration to close critical infrastructure gaps, strengthen communities, and enhance the lives of hundreds of thousands of people for generations to come,” explained Hussain Al Nowais, Chairman of AMEA Power.

AMEA Power said that it began initial development activities in 2022 with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that has advanced, driven by the strengthening of commercial relations between the UAE and Angola and the support of their leadership.

Enrique Riquelme, Executive Chairman of Cox added, “With this contract, we take a fundamental step in our international growth strategy. Angola faces significant challenges and opportunities in the water sector, and together with AMEA Power and the Angolan government, we aim to provide sustainable solutions that ensure access to potable water for citizens.”

The project will be executed through Water Alliance Ventures, a joint venture formed by Cox and AMEA Power, which combines Cox’s technology and innovation with AMEA Power’s local expertise and institutional support.

The collaboration is said to strengthen Cox’s growth in the Middle East and Africa, while minimising risks in these high-demand water and energy markets. The partnership is driving desalination and water treatment projects in these regions exceeding two million m3 per day.

The total project cost is expected to amount to more than US $200mn and will be constructed in two phases of 50,000m3 per day each. Each phase will generate 300 jobs during construction and around 25 permanent positions during operation.

Once operational, the infrastructure project will ensure a reliable supply of potable water to approximately 800,000 residents of the Mussulo Peninsula and the neighboring Futungo district, significantly improving access to water in Luanda, Angola. In addition, the plant will complement public initiatives such as the Bita and Quilonga projects, which are key to addressing the capital’s water infrastructure challenges.

The construction of the first phase is expected to begin following the completion of technical and environmental studies, with commissioning scheduled for Q2 2028.

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UAE-based furniture and interior design brand Al Huzaifa has announced its expansion into real estate development with the launch of Al Huzaifa Properties.

Building on nearly 50 years of design and craftsmanship, The World of Huzaifa has grown far beyond furniture, with flagship showrooms across the UAE, bespoke Design Studios, and as the trusted design partner for globally-renowned brands. As a curator of lifestyle experiences that shape homes with creativity, precision, and individuality, the brand now takes this legacy further through Al Huzaifa Properties — using the full canvas of real estate to craft complete living environments where design, detail, and well-being converge, said a statement from the company.

With the launch of Al Huzaifa Properties, the brand makes a first-of-its-kind advancement in the comprehensive lifestyle ecosystem by expanding its portfolio into property development — a move that capitalises on decades of expertise in designing and curating homes, now translated into holistic living experiences, it added.

“Al Huzaifa Properties is the natural evolution of our group’s DNA. For nearly five decades, Al Huzaifa has been elevating the way people live — from designing furniture and interiors to shaping complete lifestyle experiences. With our debut project on Al Marjan Island, we are bringing that legacy to one of the UAE’s most vibrant real estate markets, creating fully furnished residences that embody craftsmanship, precision, and individuality. Our next chapter will not just be about creating a residence, but to build a destination — a living experience shaped by design and detail,” commented Saif Nensey, CEO of Al Huzaifa Furniture and CEO & Founder of Al Huzaifa Properties.

Al Huzaifa Properties said that it is committed to bringing a pipeline of experiential, luxury developments, and noted its strategy will remain focused on the core brand promise of design excellence, meticulous detail, and exquisite living. It added that it will focus on creating premium, luxury lifestyle-driven communities that reflect the same commitment to quality, design precision, and aesthetic excellence that has made Al Huzaifa a household name across the region.

Marjan Island promises to be the perfect backdrop for the debut project. The projected growth of the island continues to be an immense draw for buyers and investors. The high-end lifestyle profile of the destination further synchronises beautifully with Al Huzaifa Properties’ offering of a design-led, carefully curated experiential project, the statement explained.

“Al Marjan Island is proud to be the launchpad for Al Huzaifa Properties’ debut real estate venture. Al Huzaifa’s rich tradition of design excellence complements our mission to shape Al Marjan Island into the UAE’s most sophisticated lifestyle destination,” said Arch. Abdulla Al Abdouli, CEO of Marjan.

Al Huzaifa Properties said that it will distinguish itself through a comprehensive, integrated approach that combines design, engineering, and delivery under one vision. This methodology ensures cohesion and excellence at every stage of development, from initial concept through to final handover.

“I am proud to be a part of this transformative journey as The World of Huzaifa expands into a new dimension with Al Huzaifa Properties. This milestone unites our decades of design mastery, manufacturing excellence, and project expertise to deliver developments that truly resonate with the UAE’s vibrant and discerning market. It is a milestone we are extremely proud of as we enter a new chapter of building living experiences. These homes are designed to connect deeply with those who choose to live in them, while also offering investors the assurance of fully ready residences with immediate potential for return on investment,” remarked Zaheer Rattonsey, Managing Partner at Al Huzaifa Properties.

The company’s vision extends beyond individual projects with the aim of shaping premium living environments that reflect timeless design and thoughtful planning. In line with the constantly evolving and forward-thinking landscape of the UAE, where the homegrown brand has grown and flourished, Al Huzaifa Properties believes in creating communities that echo the ethos, sensibility, and aesthetics of the brand, the statement concluded.

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The Saudi Water Partnership Company (SWPC) has announced a new construction milestone at its Al-Rayes-Rabigh Independent Water Pipeline Project site – the project has clocked more than two million safe work hours.

A first-of-its-kind initiative being developed in partnership with the private sector, Al-Rayes-Rabigh will boast an operational capacity of 500,000cu/m per day. The project is set for commercial operations in Q2 2026.

A consortium comprising Spanish group Cobra and Saudi utility major Al Khareef Water and Energy Technology Company is implementing the development under a 35-year concession.

A strategic initiative for the region, the 150km pipeline is being set up at a total investment of US $640mn. It will be operated through the private sector under a ‘build-own-operate’ system.

The project will supply the regions of Makkah and Madinah with drinking water, achieving high levels of continuous supply, in addition to improving the efficiency of water transportation in the two regions.

During a site visit, a team led by SWPC Chief Executive Khaled Al Qureshire viewed the progress of construction work and the project’s progress.

“The project has achieved more than two million safe work hours,” Al Qureshi explained. “With work in full swing, the project is on track for commercial operations by the end of Q2 2026.”

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UAE-based Azizi Developments has announced the launch of Azizi Wares, a freehold residential and retail development located in Downtown Jebel Ali.

Taking shape adjacent to Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), Azizi Wares will offers investors and end-users an unparalleled opportunity to live at the heart of Dubai’s global business hub. The project features a mix of studios and one- to three-bedroom apartments, along with a selection of premium retail spaces, the developer said in a statement.

The residences will feature ultra-modern interiors designed for contemporary living, while the project’s wide array of lifestyle-enhancing amenities includes swimming pools for adults and children, separate gyms for men and women, a private cinema, a children’s play area, a gaming lounge, a clubhouse, multipurpose hall, ample parking, and 24/7 security.

“Downtown Jebel Ali has quickly emerged as a prime hub for global business and modern living. With Azizi Wares, we are introducing a development that embodies connectivity and convenience, and that reflects our vision for Downtown Jebel Ali – shaping communities where contemporary living meets opportunity,” said Azizi Group CEO, Farhad Azizi.

With direct connectivity to Sheikh Zayed Road and the Dubai Metro, the development ensures access to Dubai’s major business, retail, and leisure hubs, the developer noted.

Surrounded by more than 100 Fortune Global 500 companies, residents also benefit from close proximity to destinations such as Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Expo City Dubai, Al Maktoum International Airport, Ibn Battuta Mall, and Downtown Dubai, the statement concluded.

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Source: ME Construction News