Big Project ME February 2024

Excellence in Construction

BIG PROJECT ME CELEBRATES THE BEST OF THE REGIONAL CONSTRUCTION SECTOR AT THE BIG PROJECT ME AWARDS 2023

ANALYSIS FEATURES INSIGHT

08 The Briefing

Emaar, The Economic City has inked a partnership with hopOn to develop sustainable mobility solutions

10 The Big Picture

A wrap-up of the biggest international construction news stories for the month

12 Market Report

The UAE’s real estate sector witnessed robust growth across all the major asset classes in 2023 according to JLL’s ‘A Year in Review’ UAE report

16 In Profile

Big Project Middle East Awards

Big Project ME recognised excellence in construction at its annual awards ceremony in January 2024

32 In Profile

A Sustainable Alternative

Big Project ME talks to Matthias Gelber about the growing use of nature-based solutions in construction, and how Desert Board’s PSBs are an ideal material for a variety of applications around the world

36 Event Review

The 2024 Big Project ME Golf Day brought together construction stakeholders to engage in friendly competition

42 Comment

Jotun Paints Abu Dhabi’s Svein

Johan Stub on how paint can enhance construction value

4 4 Final Update

OMNIYAT begins handover of the Lana Residences in Marasi Bay Marina

Energy & Sustainability

Welcome to a new edition of Big Project Middle East (BPME)!

Following on from the success of the 2023 Big Project Middle East Awards, the BPME editorial team and I have been hard at work on what is unquestionably one of the publications flagship events, the annual Energy & Sustainability Summit.

Now in its third year, the summit is hitting its stride and I’m pleased to confirm that the event has been officially endorsed by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy. The Council will also be an active participant at the event on 7 March, delivering a keynote address on decarbonising the buildings sector, covering existing structures as well as new build.

The event has also secured participation from several other government entities: Masdar City, Expo City Dubai, the Department of Energy and Etihad Water and Electricity. It has been a fantastic journey getting to this point, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to host these influential entities at the conference.

In securing government speakers for the event, it became clear that decarbonisation

and achieving Net Zero in both the construction and energy sectors are a high priority. The enthusiasm demonstrated by all the stakeholders with regards to their participation, and keenness to highlight work that has already been done, and goals that are yet to be achieved, is proof that these organisations are extremely serious about building a sustainable future.

With these public sector entities blazing such a bright trail, companies in the private sector have a brilliant pilot light to follow, with regards to their own Net Zero journeys. The great news is there have been many private sector organisations who’ve already made significant progress with regards to decarbonising their businesses and operations, however, there are still those who’ve yet to begin their journeys in earnest. I personally hope those firms jump on the bandwagon sooner rather than later.

Collaboration between the public and private sector is critical to achieving Net Zero and a sustainable future, and it’s great to see that much has already been achieved due to long term partnerships. As the deadline to achieve the goals of the Paris Agreement looms, the time is now for everyone to join hands and get involved in the fight to preserve our planet and our future.

Jason Saundalkar HEAD OF CONTENT

ON

Excellence in Construction

PROJECT ME CELEBRATES THE BEST OF

Big Project ME highlights excellence in the Middle East’s construction sector at its annual gala event in Dubai

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@meconstructionn

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PROPERTY

Cecep Techand awarded contract worth US $762mn

CONSTRUCTION

JCDC awards US $3.2bn in contracts

CONSTRUCTION

Sembol Construction wins prime Nakheel contract

CONSTRUCTION

RTA in new partnership for Dubai Harbour bridge

ENERGY

Riyadh Cables named as supplier for MBR Solar Park

INTERVIEW: Sustainable growth

OPINION: 2024 Sustainability Trends to Watch

EVENT: Critical Infrastructure Summit to take place on 17 April in Dubai

24 April 2024

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NOMINATION DEADLINE: 22 MARCH 2024

CONSTRUCTION

Lusail Museum construction to begin shortly

The five-year project will be led by Swiss architects and feature an innovative, crescentshaped main boulevard

CONSTRUCTION

Webuild wins US $4.7bn deal to build three dams in Saudi Arabia

The contractor will also develop ‘The Bow’ which will feature a hotel overhanging the mountain’s valley below

CONSTRUCTION

Saudi Aramco awards $3.3bn in contracts to JV for construction of new facility in Saudi Arabia

The joint venture comprises a 65% share owned by Técnicas Reunidas and 35% by Sinopec Engineering Group

CONSTRUCTION

US $336mn expansion of Sharjah International Airport gets underway

The expansion will separate the arrivals from the departures and offer new systems and facilities

PROPERTY

First batch of Quattro Del Mar units sold out

The four-tower property from RAK Properties boasts premium facilities and a focus on wellness

MOST POPULAR

CONSTRUCTION

Omniyat appoints Innovo Build for main works on Orla project

FINANCIAL

AESG tracks 46% growth on the back of healthy regional economic climate

ENERGY

Queequeg Renewables to apply for permissions for 750MW of energy projects

SUSTAINABILITY

CCA and GCCA to collaborate on low-carbon development of cement and concrete industry

CONSTRUCTION

Revealed: 2023 Big Project ME Award winners

Emaar, The Economic City partners with hopOn

The partnership with hopOn was announced during KAEC’s participation at PIF Private Sector Forum, with the goal of boosting sustainable mobility solutions

The master developer of the King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) - Emaar, The Economic City - has inked a strategic partnership with hopOn. The latter is a smart city solutions provider focused on the public and shared transportation sector.

According to a statement, the partnership marks a significant step towards enhancing sustainable mobility solutions - including providing smart transport and smart parking - with

a focus on sustainability and carbon neutrality in line with Saudi Vision 2030, within the KAEC community.

The official agreement was signed in Riyadh by Cyril Piaia, CEO of Emaar, The Economic City, and Jamil Naji Jamjoom, Co-Founder and CEO of hopOn, in the presence of Mansour Al-Salem, Managing Director of Emaar, the Economic City alongside other key representatives, at the two-days Public Investment Fund (PIF) Private Sector Forum.

SAUDI ARABIA

Cyril Piaia, CEO of Emaar, The Economic City said, “Our goal at Emaar, The Economic City, is to promote sustainable economic growth while improving the overall experience for both residents and visitors.

Through our participation in the PIF private sector forum, we are making progress towards our goal of steering socio-economic development in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, while also attracting third-party investors from the private sector in line with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 strategy.”

“Another significant milestone is our collaboration with hopOn, which exemplifies our ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in every aspect of urban living. In addition to improving mobility within the city, our combined efforts will raise the bar for intelligent urban developments worldwide. Our residents and visitors can look forward to a seamless and integrated mobility experience, regardless of whether they are commuting to work or simply touring the community,” he added.

As per the terms of the agreement, KEAC will leverage hopOn’s expertise in mobility solutions to create a seamless and efficient transportation network within the city, catering to the diverse needs of its residents and visitors. This includes facilitating last-mile mobility from the Haramain train station to key districts and destinations in the city, implementing various bus routes, and

Partnership

The official agreement was signed in Riyadh by Cyril Piaia, CEO of Emaar, The Economic City, and Jamil Naji Jamjoom, Co-Founder and CEO of hopOn.

Sustainable

providing on-demand busses, e-shutters, and vans, along with options for twowheel scooters, three-wheel scooters, mechanical bikes, and electric bikes.

Additionally, innovative smart transport as well as smart on-street and off-street parking solutions will be integrated, allowing people to book ad-hoc rides and reserve parking spaces through a smart mobile app. This collaboration underscores KAEC’s commitment to developing a worldclass, integrated lifestyle city that adds to the socio-economic prosperity and sustainability of Saudi Arabia.

Jamil Naji Jamjoom, Co-Founder and CEO of hopOn commented,

“hopOn is committed to building smarter, more connected cities with seamless, sustainable, and universally accessible transportation. We are dedicated to transforming urban mobility, as demonstrated by our partnership with Emaar, The Economic City. KAEC’s commitment to innovation and excellence is perfectly aligned with hopOn’s mission, and we look forward to joining forces to improve mobility experiences for both residents and visitors.”

During its participation at the PIF Private Sector Forum, KAEC is said to have highlighted a spectrum of opportunities for public-private partnerships in the city across various sectors, including hospitality, entertainment, commercial, residential, and industrial.

Hosted by PIF, the forum aimed to enhance partnerships between the PIF portfolio companies and private sectors, while spotlighting avenues for local collaboration in key strategic sectors.

The second edition of the PIF forum successfully brought together PIF companies and private sector companies to spur significant economic growth investments. With its mission to develop and shape transformative urban living experiences, KAEC is well-positioned to boost Saudi Arabia's economic and social development through impactful partnerships and endeavours, the statement concluded.

01

Turner wins $800mn contract for Meta campus

Meta has awarded a US $800mn contract to contractor Turner for the construction of a 6,500sqm campus in Jeffersonville, Indiana in the United States. The campus includes several data centre buildings and Turner will use prefabricated modular assembly to build them.

Meta will make investments in new renewable energy projects, allowing it to make the claim that the data centre will be fully powered by renewable energy once operational. The campus will be LEED Gold certified by the US Green Building Council, with construction starting in February.

Deal inked to increase investment

A new agreement has been formalised between the European Commission and the African Development Bank. The deal will see increased investment flow into infrastructure projects in Africa.

The European Union has increased its co-financing of operations with the African Development Bank to US $1.1bn. The two parties said that figure would increase further following the signing of a new Financial Framework Partnership Agreement by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and African Development Bank Group President Dr Akinwumi Adesina.

02 ANTARCTICA

CSCEC to build new helipad at research station in Antarctica

China State Construction (CSCEC) will build a new 1,020sqm helipad at a Chinese research station that is located on the coast of the Ross Sea in Antarctica.

The structure will be delivered using more than 400 pre-cast concrete panels manufactured from high-strength concrete developed by CSCEC. The panels have already been transported to Antarctica in containers, the firm added.

Once the helipad is complete, it will facilitate the transportation of supplies and scientific research equipment for various research stations on the Antarctic.

Nuvia wins bulk dismantling contract

A contract for the bulk dismantling of two reactor units at the Ringhals Nuclear Power Plant in Sweden has been awarded to Vinci Construction subsidiary, Nuvia.

Nuvia’s scope of works includes the removal, inspection and sorting of around 30,000t of radioactive and non-radioactive material that is currently inside the reactor buildings.

Works on the six-year contract are scheduled to begin in 2025, with around 400 people expected to be involved in the dismantling process.

The facility is one of Sweden’s largest energy producing nuclear sites.

03 SENEGAL

$219mn deal inked to develop electricity infrastructure

Senegal’s national electricity company Senelec and a subsidiary of French construction firm Vinci have inked a $219.5mn deal to build electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure.

According to a statement, the project will be partially funded by French authorities. The three-year project will involve the construction of 1,350km of highvoltage and very-high-voltage overhead and underground transmission lines, in a bid to connect thousand of homes. The project will also see the construction of eight very-high-voltage transformer stations.

QIC unveils Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium

The Qiddiya Investment Company (QIC) has launched the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, which aims to further enhance Qiddiya’s philosophy of the Power of Play. The QIC Board of Directors said the futuristic venue, located in Qiddiya City atop the 200m-high Tuwaiq cliff and just 40 minutes from Riyadh, is anticipated to become a must-visit destination.

Designed by global architectural firm Populous, the stadium is set to become the world’s first fully integrated venue with a combined retractable roof, pitch and LED wall.

04 DRC

06 SAUDI ARABIA

05 SWEDEN

Webuild wins US $4.7bn deal to build three dams in Saudi Arabia

A $4.7bn contract has been awarded to Webuild to build three dams to create a freshwater lake for a ski resort in Neom. According to the contractor, the dams will create a 2.8km-long lake at the Trojena mountain destination.

The main dam will be made of rollercompacted concrete (RCC) and will be 145m high, 475m long and hold a volume of approximately 2.7m cu/m. The second dam will also be built using RCC, while the third will be in rock, with a volume of 4.3m cu/m. The artificial lake will cover an area of 1.5sqkm.

A pledge to collaborate on sustainability and low-carbon cement has been signed by the China Cement Association (CCA), which represents more than 50% of the world’s cement production. The CCA has joined forces with the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) – the latter’s members account for 80% of cement production capacity outside of China.

The pledge includes an agreement to work together on sustainability, and the low-carbon development of the cement and concrete industry. Concrete is the world’s most used material on earth after water, accounting for around 7% of global CO2 emissions.

Gammon wins contract for residential tower in Hong Kong

Gammon has been awarded a contract to build a residential project in Hong Kong. The contract worth $190mn, will see the firm build a 33-storey residential tower above Hong Kong’s existing MTR metro line.

The project is already underway and is scheduled for completion in 2025, and will employ 500 people at the peak of construction.

Gammon will adopt Design for Manufacture and Assembly methods during construction, fabricating individual structural steel components offsite.

09 HONG KONG

08 CHINA CCA and GCCA to collaborate

07 SAUDI ARABIA

Under the Spotlight: UAE Real Estate Market

The UAE’s real estate sector witnessed robust growth across all the major asset classes in 2023 according to JLL’s ‘A Year in Review’ UAE report

Throughout the year, Dubai’s residential market experienced a consistent influx of new supply. Over 36,000 units were delivered in 2023, with apartments comprising the majority, thereby raising the total stock to over 719,000 units. Similarly, in the capital, over 5,000 units were completed in 2023, resulting in a total completed stock of over 284,000 units. In 2024, approximately 34,000 units are scheduled to be delivered in Dubai, while around 8,000 units are anticipated in Abu Dhabi.

The residential market in both cities benefited from strong demand. In 2023, Dubai witnessed substantial growth in total

transactions, with a 51% Y-o-Y increase in value and a 43% Y-o-Y increase in volume for the period of January to November 2023, as per data from Dubai Pulse. On the same basis, in Abu Dhabi, successful launches in the off-plan segment contributed to a significant rise in total transaction values, which surged by 102% annually, and a 77% Y-o-Y increase in volume compared to the same period last year.

Consequently, the performance of the residential sector was robust in 2023. Indeed, the capital experienced consistent growth throughout the year, with a 5% increase in sale prices and a 2% rise in rental rates on an annual basis in Q4 2023. In Dubai, both average sales prices and rental rates saw

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

significant increases of 19% in November 2023 compared to the same period of the previous year. Notably, Dubai’s average villa sale prices continued their upward trajectory, driven by heightened demand, and by November 2023, they reached a new all-time high, surpassing the previous peak of 2014 by 15%.

The positive momentum of the UAE’s residential market is anticipated to continue into 2024. One key challenge for developers will be incorporating the rise in land prices and construction costs, thereby perpetuating the trend of smaller unit sizes and launches in secondary areas.

COMMERCIAL

In 2023, approximately 92,000sqm of gross leasable area (GLA) was delivered in Dubai, with the majority consisting of Grade A specifications, thereby increasing the total stock to 9.2m sqm. Conversely, the total stock in the capital remained unchanged at 3.9m sqm, with no significant new deliveries throughout the year. Looking ahead at the future supply of 2024, Dubai is scheduled to add an additional 44,000sqm, while Abu Dhabi is expected to introduce approximately 112,000sqm of new office space.

In the final quarter, a 15% year-on-year (Y-o-Y) increase elevated average Grade A rents within Dubai’s Central Business District (CBD) to US $660 per sqm per annum. These rates set a new market record, surpassing the previous high of 2016 by nearly 6%. The leasing activity also picked up, resulting in a reduction of office vacancies within the CBD to 8%. Similarly, in Abu Dhabi, the robust demand continued to drive an impressive 12% Y-o-Y growth in average city-wide Grade A rents, amounting to $544 per sqm per annum. Over the same period, the city-wide vacancy rate marginally decreased to 22% in the capital.

Looking at occupiers, due to a shortage of available space within the CBD in Dubai and high rents, tenants’ negotiating power was constrained when it came to lease discussions with landlords. Consequently, tenants found themselves compelled to either accept deals on less favourable terms or reassess their requirements and extend their search to secondary and tertiary areas that potentially offered lower-quality stock.

The current market presents an opportunity for commercial real estate developers to capitalise on the rising demand by initiating

new projects. Recognising this potential, certain free zones in the country have taken proactive measures to expand their jurisdiction or launch new projects within their zones. Robust demand in the office market is being driven by both new market entrants and inquiries linked to expansion plans. Moreover, there is an increasing preference for high-quality office spaces, and the market continues to witness a shift towards sustainable practices. These factors collectively contribute to driving the market forward and shaping its future trajectory.

RETAIL

The total retail stock in Dubai reached 4.8m sqm, with the addition of 123,000sqm of retail space in 2023. The majority of this growth resulted from the expansion of an existing super regional mall. In the capital, during the same period, around 250,000sqm of retail GLA came online, increasing the total stock to 3.15m sqm. In 2024, an additional 160,000sqm of retail space is anticipated to enter Dubai, while Abu Dhabi is expected to introduce around 19,000sqm of new retail GLA. Looking at the performance of the retail market in the last quarter of 2023, there

One key challenge for developers will be incorporating the rise in land prices and construction costs, thereby perpetuating the trend of smaller unit sizes”

4.8m

The ongoing development of new tourism destinations, such as Saadiyat and Yas Island, will serve as positive catalysts for the hospitality sector ”

was an average increase of 5% in average rents for both primary and secondary malls in both cities. Additionally, robust leasing activity contributed to a reduction in vacancy rates, bringing the rate down to 16% in Dubai. In Abu Dhabi, the city-wide vacancy rate stood at 22% due to the addition of new retail stock throughout the year.

In the capital, the primary focus has been on the development of entertainment concepts and the enhancement of food and beverage (F&B) options. Earlier in the year, the city witnessed the opening of SeaWorld, which introduced a distinctive entertainment concept. Additional concepts are anticipated to debut, including TeamLab Phenomena in 2024. On the F&B front, the government launched the Abu Dhabi Culinary Investment Fund (ADCIF), a programme designed to attract upscale culinary brands to the capital.

In Dubai, there has been a focus on reoptimising retail assets to align with evolving technology and e-commerce trends. Mall operators have taken measures to adapt to these changes.

Meanwhile, in smaller community and neighbourhood malls, homegrown concepts, including F&B establishments and convenience brands, have successfully

carved out a niche for themselves. These local offerings have remained popular choices, effectively catering to the specific demands of the surrounding communities.

HOSPITALITY

Dubai witnessed the addition of approximately 5,000 keys throughout 2023, with a majority representing 5-star properties. This propelled the total stock to 153,000 keys. As for Abu Dhabi, the addition of around 200 keys led to a total stock surpassing 32,500 keys.

Looking ahead to 2024, Dubai has approximately 7,000 keys scheduled for delivery, while Abu Dhabi is expecting around 700 keys to be added to its inventory.

From January to October 2023, Dubai recorded a total of 13.9m visitors, with Indian, British, Saudi, and Russian nationals representing the top source markets, as per the latest data from Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

This marked a noteworthy 22% improvement compared to the figures observed in 2022 for the same period. Within the hospitality market, a crucial element contributing to sustained growth throughout the year has been the presence

of a well-balanced calendar of events. These events played a vital role in stimulating visitor traffic and bolstering performance metrics during both low and high seasons.

Regarding hotel performance, the citywide occupancy in Dubai reached 77% for the year-to-date (YT) period of November 2023. Although there was a decrease of 2% in average daily rates (ADR), resulting in an ADR of $179, the overall increase in tourist arrivals contributed to maintaining a healthy revenue per available room (RevPAR) of $138. Operators continued to apply effective revenue management strategies to adapt to the evolving demand mix and to remain competitive in the market.

During the same period, Abu Dhabi sustained robust occupancy levels of 72%, while ADR reached $143, marking a notable increase of 20% compared to the same period last year. Moreover, RevPAR experienced a significant annual improvement of 25%, reaching $103.

The ongoing development of new tourism destinations in Abu Dhabi, such as Saadiyat and Yas Island, combined with the introduction of new entertainment concepts, will serve as positive catalysts for the hospitality sector, and is anticipated to contribute to long-term growth in the capital.

MAKING HISTORY BY BUILDING THE FUTURE

Since 1975

Excellence in Construction

The

2023 edition of the Big

Project Middle East Awards

recognised 28 winners comprising government organisations, developers, contractors and suppliers

The 2023 Big Project Middle East (BPME) Awards took place on 22 January at the Ritz Carlton JBR, Dubai. The ‘Excellence in Construction Awards’ was attended by over 180 individuals from across the region, hailing from government, developers, operators, contractors and suppliers.

The event several new categories (31 total), and when voting closed in December 2023, over 150 nominations had been submitted, with 28 winners being recognised.

The judging process comprised two phases; the first was conducted by the BPME editorial team who

vetted all the submissions to ensure they met guidelines and standards, and that they were appropriate for the focus of the categories.

The second part of the process comprised an in-person meeting of industry judges on 5 January to discuss the nominations that made it through to the second round of eliminations. The judges included:

• Christopher Fanin, Senior Principal, Managing Director, InSite

• Hesham Nour Eldeen, Practice Director, Structures, Civil Infrastructure, Transportation, UAE, AECOM

• Majd Fayyad, DSM Strategy & Policy Lead, Dubai Supreme Council of Energy

• Nivine Issa, Founder & Managing Director, Terra Nexus

• Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content, Big Project Middle East

“The Big Project Middle East Awards are a recognised staple across the Middle East and it was gratifying to see a number of new companies submit nominations, following the launch of several new categories. The nominations were diverse and of a high standard, and showcased excellent individuals, projects and companies, all of which signifies that the industry is recovering, following the outbreak of the pandemic,” said Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content at Big Project Middle East

The 2023 Big Project Middle East Awards was supported by:

• Gold Sponsor: Engineering Contracting Company

• Silver Sponsor: Procore

• Supporting Partners: Compass Project Consulting, Kingspan, and RIB Software

“With the 2023 BPME Excellence in Construction Awards out of the way, my team and I look forward to launching nominations for the second edition of the ME Digital Construction Awards. The first edition, which was held on 15 March 2023 was very well received by the industry, and we look forward to building on its success, with a larger event this year,” added Saundalkar.

Big Project ME’s Young Professional of the Year

NOMINEES

Ahmad Sharjeel – Al Khoory Solutions

Ahmed Abou Al Yousr – Parsons

Ross Hopwood – ISG

WINNER

Ahmad Sharjeel – Al Khoory Solutions

Al Khoory Solutions’ Ahmad Sharjeel was the first winner announced at the 2023 edition of the Big Project Middle East Awards. Five nominations were submitted for this category, with the panel of judges shortlisting just three for recognition on the night.

Competition in this category was high during the judging process, however Sharjeel’s nomination edged ahead thanks to his focus on excellence, innovation and collaboration, whilst working on over 12 key projects in 2023. While each project had its own challenges and complexities,

Big Project ME’s Mentor of the Year

NOMINEES

Ahmed Maged Mohamed Ali – VE Experts

Amr Metwally – Engineering Contracting Company

WINNER

Amr Metwally – Engineering Contracting Company

The second winner of the night in this all-new category for the BPME Awards was Engineering Contracting Company’s Amr Metwally.

Five nominations were submitted for this category, with the panel of judges compiling a shortlist of just two for the evening.

Metwally’s nomination showcased his commitment to his colleagues’ professional growth, focus on mentorship of his team, and his broader guidance to the organisation’s thousands of employees, through the creation of an engineering handbook, focus on the dissemination of quality

knowledge via quality management articles, and the introduction of an online quality management induction programme.

“I’m truly honoured to receive the Mentor of the Year Award, my warmest thanks go to the Big Project Middle East team and all of the judges. I cannot really express how grateful I am to my esteemed organisation, ECC, which is chaired by Mr. Hatem Farah, for nominating me for such a prestigious award and for placing confidence in my innovative ideas. Thanks to my colleagues, to my friends and to my family for their support. Thank you very much,” commented Metwally.

his engagement and inclusive approach with stakeholders ensured project success.

He has also been a staunch advocate for the adoption of BIM for a project’s complete lifecycle within his organisation and the broader industry, his nomination outlined.

“It’s really overwhelming to win this award but, at the same time, I’ve put in a lot of effort for the projects, so it’s great to be recognised. I would like to thank my mentors and my team. This is a great event, and I am honoured to be here,” said Sharjeel.

Big Project ME’s Woman of the Year

NOMINEES

Rana Nassar – Parsons

Rexy Seema Machado – Dutco Interiors

Sheikha Ali – ALEC Engineering & Contracting

WINNER

Rana Nassar - Parsons

Seven nominations were submitted to this category, however just three were shortlisted on the evening, with Parsons’ Rana Nassar clinching the win.

This year’s winner made a significant contribution to her business since joining the company, extending beyond the scope of her day to day role. She stands as a positive role model for other women in the organisation, and uses her platform to support other employees regardless of gender. She is a strong advocate for equal opportunities and benefits to all of her team

Big Project ME’s Team of the Year

NOMINEES

Connect Conference Centre Expo City Team – ISG

Khazna Data Centre, AUH6, Masdar City – McLaren Construction Group

MEP BIM Team – INNOVO

WINNER

MEP BIM Team – INNOVO

This category was conceptualised to recognise the efforts of teams across the built environment, whether they are delivering an entire project, a particular aspect of a project, or are operating the project, post-handover.

INNOVO’s MEP BIM Team clinched the win as a result of its nomination featuring several positive testimonials whilst delivering work across several projects, including multiple Emaar owned residential towers and hotels, Saadiyat Grove, Sea World Abu Dhabi, data centres and airport expansion projects.

The nomination highlighted the team’s agility with regards to adapting to project changes, how it achieved accreditation, and how it fosters a collaborative environment that encourages ideas and knowledge sharing.

“It’s really a huge award for us because it gives significant validation to the dedication and efforts over the last few years. We really appreciate the votes the judge gave us and are grateful to the organisers for giving us this award, it’s truly a great win for us,” said George Zakhary, Head of MEP BIM, INNOVO.

members and other employees, and is adamant about ensuring that every voice is heard. She is also a firm believer that there is a direct correlation between diversity of voices and the success of the company as a whole.

“I feel fantastic about winning this prestigious award. I’ve always felt a responsibility to support other people and transmit my knowledge and experiences to other women in the industry, and plan to continue on that path. Thank you again for selecting me as the winner in this category,” said Nassar.

Big Project ME’s Executive of the Year

NOMINEES

Barry Lewis – ALEC Engineering & Contracting

Hussain Sajwani – DAMAC Properties

Maryam Almheiri – Dubai Municipality

WINNER

Hussain Sajwani – DAMAC Properties

This category aims to recognise excellence at the highest levels, with the judges keen to see evidence of business success, the launch of new initiatives, the achievement of existing goals, while maintaining a diverse and sustainable organisation.

Nine nominations were submitted, however just

three were shortlisted and recognised on the night.

The judges said choosing a winner proved challenging as all the candidates boasted exceptional nominations, highlighting their attention to detail, success in achieving business goals, their focus on building a sustainable business, and ensuring their

organisation constantly delivered on their promises. When the votes were tallied up, it became obvious than two winners had to be recognised, as first choice votes were evenly split.

As a result, DAMAC Properties’ Hussain Sajwani and Dubai Municipality’s Maryam Almheiri were both recoginsed. DAMAC Properties’ General Manager, Mohammad Al Tahaineh accepted the award on behalf of Sajwani, who was overseas on the night of the awards.

“I feel humbled to receive the ‘Executive of the Year’ award at the Big Project Middle East Awards. This recognition is an inspiration to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation and excellence in the real estate industry, driving positive change, and delivering exceptional value to our clients and stakeholders,” remarked Sajwani.

The second winner in this category, Maryam Almheiri, was

honoured due to her nomination highlighting the organisational transformation of the Building Regulation and Permits agency at Dubai Municipality. It showcased how she was driving the smart and innovative transformation of building permits and control services and processes, and highlighted her work on geospatial infrastructure for the Dubai Metaverse and Digital Twin project.

As Almheiri was unable to attend the BPME Awards in January, the Big Project Middle East editorial Team organised for the trophy to be handed over, in the weeks following the awards ceremony.

“Thanks to the Big Project Middle East Awards for recognising the achievements in the AEC industry in the UAE and the region. I appreciate being recognised as the Government Executive of the Year,” said Almheiri.

Maryam Almheiri – Dubai Municipality

Supply Chain Sustainability Initiative of the Year

WINNER

As pressure mounts on the built environment to decarbonise in a bid to prevent catastrophic climate change, the time is now for key construction stakeholders to influence supply chains, so that they integrate ethical, legal and environmentally responsible practices, and products.

This category was therefore conceptualised to highlight, and celebrate, a standout supply chain initiative or product that has been rolled out by a regional developer, contractor or supplier that puts sustainability and decarbonisation in the sector into sharp focus.

Two nominations were submitted to this category; however the judges saw fit to recognise just one, which meant there was no shortlist on the night. Thanks to a

strong nomination, Desert Board was selected as the winner in this category.

“It’s fantastic to win this award because in all honesty, the board we’re manufacturing is one of the most sustainable boards in the world. We’re taking abundantly available biomass and turning that into a product with value. In doing so, we’re also decarbonising the built environment, and we’re even able also to decarbonise the process of creating structures because we can use this board to make I-beams that can be used for formwork. You can also make shuttering boards and we’re also looking at creating structurally insulated panels. So, we can build homes very quickly in a factory environment,” explained Kamal Farah, Director, Desert Board.

Sustainable Contractor of the Year

NOMINEES

ACCIONA

Desert Board WINNER ACCIONA

The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)

Contractors are responsible for taking a project from vision to reality by deploying expertise and best practices to get the job done on time and budget, whilst adhering to relevant codes and standards. This category recognises companies that have incorporated sustainable practices across their business and on job sites.

Five nominations were submitted, with ACCIONA taking the win thanks to a detailed nomination highlighting its decarbonisation efforts.

“It is an honor for ACCIONA that the renowned jury considered the value that our projects pursue

a positive impact on the planet, through business models based on decarbonisation, water and ecosystem conservation and the circular use of resources. In 2022, the amount of water treated by ACCIONA in water-stressed countries was 545hm3, which makes up 47% of the firm’s total water treatment for customers. Water production processes in water-stressed countries focus on seawater desalination in Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Qatar and United Arab Emirates, (UAE) and the treatment and purification in Egypt,” commented Javier Nieto, ACCIONA KSA Director, Water Business.

Sustainable Developer of the Year

Sustainable Project of the Year – International

NOMINEES

Restoration of Burullus Lake - The Arab Contractors

The

Red Sea Destination - Red Sea Global

WINNER

The Red Sea Destination - Red Sea Global

Conceptualised to highlight recent projects that best embody sustainable principles and practices in the construction or post-construction phase, this category welcomed nominations from developers, contractors and operators.

Due to the number of nominations and the high-quality of each, the BPME editorial team decided to expand it, and recognise a local project, as well as an international project.

Two projects were put forward by the judges for recognition on the night, however The Red Sea Destination by Red Sea Global clinched the win.

“Thank you very much, we’re feeling very proud and happy to be rewarded for all the effort that has gone into our projects. Our leadership has given us direction and being recognised in this forum gives us a great sense of achievement as a company at the forefront of sustainable development. Red Sea Global has been very conscious in terms of how we develop our designs, how we construct and, now that we’ve started to deliver our destinations, how we’re going to be operating them,” said Ali Mumtaz, Senior Director, Environmental Management & Assessments at Red Sea Global.

Dhabi Ports Group

This category seeks to highlight developers who have integrated sustainable principles into their day-to-day operations and mandated that their projects be delivered and operated sustainably.

Four nominations were considered by our panel of judges, however two made the shortlist, with Abu Dhabi Ports Group getting the most first choice votes. The nomination highlighted the company’s focus and commitment to balancing environmental and social matters with economic progress, and also highlighted its long term sustainability strategy, which adheres to the United Nation’s

Sustainable Development Goals.

“We were part of the Abu Dhabi Ports Group team that worked on the Al Shamal Project, and the client had very strict requirements for being a sustainable developer, and made sure that we did our job correctly. We’re very happy that all the work from the client, contractor and from the team was recognised in the Sustainable Developer of the Year category at the Big Project Middle East Awards. Thank you for the recognition,” stated Mohammad Hazem Soudan, Head of Commissioning at Jacobs, who accepted the award on behalf of Abu Dhabi Ports Group.

Abu Dhabi Ports Group

Fakhruddin Properties

NOMINEES

WINNER

Abu

Sustainable Project of the Year – Local

Solar PV Energy System for RTA Buildings & Facilities – RTA

Solar PV Energy System for RTA Buildings & Facilities – RTA

Due to the number and quality of nominations, the Sustainable Project of the Year category was expanded to recognise a second winner, an organisation that is based in the UAE itself, whereas the first winner was an international firm.

The judges chose to shortlist two nominations for recognition and ultimately the Solar PV Energy System for RTA Buildings & Facilities project, which was submitted by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) ultimately secured the most first choice votes.

The solar project was undertaken in line with the Dubai

Skills Development Programme of the Year

WINNER

Sobha Constructions

Nurturing skills and passing them onto future generations is critical in the built environment. This category seeks to highlight and recognise companies that invest in staff, and encourage them to further develop their personnel skills or undertake career advancement programmes.

While two nominations made it to the second round of eliminations, the judges thought there was one clear winner, and chose to recognise Sobha Constructions as the winner. Sobha’s nomination highlighted that the programme saw a significant amount of staff that enrolled attain 80% of their target productivity compared to just 30% before. In addition, the programme significantly shortened the time needed for new staff to pick-up

key skills to just 29 days, and enhanced safety and quality.

“We’re excited to win this award from Big Project Middle East as Sobha continues its exponential growth. Our technicians are the backbone for all the projects we deliver and we see them as pillars of our growth. For this reason, it was very important for us to develop their skills in various aspects and to ensure that they were trained to meet our quality requirements. Our programme redefines skills development in the industry, it has already delivered great results and has had a fantastic impact on the morale of our employees, and we look forward to building on its success,” said Pradeep Kink, Head of Business Excellence at Sobha Constructions Dubai.

Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030 and, over 20-years, it will yield energy savings of in excess of 629m kw/h and a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions in excess of 312,000t.

Already in partial operation, the solar PV project has begun yielding tangible benefits in support of a concerted effort to decarbonise and stave off climate change.

As the Roads and Transport Authority was unable to attend the BPME Awards, the BPME editorial team handed off the trophy in the weeks following the event.

Advancing Sustainability project – Imdaad

NOMINEES WINNER

Fit-Out Contractor of the Year

NOMINEES

Depa

ISG

WINNER

Depa

This category aims to recognise the region’s most professional, efficient and respected fit-out contractors, whether they are a standalone firm or one that is part of a larger group.

Seven nominations were submitted, and following two rounds of elimination, the judges chose to shortlist three companies, with Depa clinching the win. Through its nomination, Depa highlighted the delivery of US $250mn worth of fit-out work in the 12 months leading up to the awards, including two LEED certified projects, two major hotel

refurbishment programmes in the UAE, while it also completed quality fit-out jobs on a number of prestigious projects such as the Banyan Tree Alula, and the KAFD Metro Station in Riyadh. Winning this award shows the dedication of the team who has delivered several iconic projects over the last 12 months and has brought significant innovation to this region. Going forward, we plan to continue delivering the largest and most iconic projects in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, and our eyeing growth in other regions as well,” said a Depa spokesperson.

MEP Contractor of the Year

ALEMCO

LASCO JV SSG

Sobha Constructions

United Masters Electromechanical

LASCO JV SSG

This category aims to highlight the most efficient, capable and respected MEP firms, whether they are a standalone company or one that is part of a larger group.

Six nominations were submitted, with four making it to the second round of eliminations. Here, the judges studied each and decided all four were worthy of recognition on the night, with LASCO JV SSG securing the most first choice votes.

Through its nomination, the firm showcased its work in terms of delivering complex HVAC solutions for a variety of

projects. The nomination also highlighted the firm’s strong advocacy and usage of variable refrigerant flow solutions as part of its goals to design value focused solutions that maintain occupant comfort, are energy efficient and reduce indirect emissions, and cost effective.

“We’ve been in the market for 44 years and we are always happy to earn recognition from prestigious awards for our work, and for our focus on designing solutions that add value and are energy efficient,” said a spokesperson at LASCO.

NOMINEES

WINNER

ALEC FITOUT

Infrastructure Contractor of the Year

NOMINEES

China State Construction Engineering Corporation Middle East

The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)

WINNER

China State Construction Engineering Corporation Middle East

The Infrastructure Contractor of the Year category is dedicated to recognising civil/infrastructure contractors, who are delivering anything from roads to power plants to refineries or even water distribution networks.

Six nominations were submitted, with the first round of eliminations deeming just three worthy for the second round. The judges chose to shortlist just two, with China State Construction Engineering Corporation Middle East (CSCEC) scoring the most first choice votes.

CSCEC’s nomination outlined a broad bouquet of

won and delivered work in the 2022-2023 period, as well as its focus on innovation and the use of cutting edge technology and processes to boost quality, save time, and reduce costs.

“I’m so honoured to win this award, thank you to the BPME team. In fact, this is the fourth time we have been recognised for our work, which demonstrates that the industry recognises our hand work in delivering some of the UAE’s most fascinating infrastructure projects,” said Wei Chuanhai, Vice President, China State Construction Engineering Corporation Middle East.

Mid-sized Contractor of the Year

Contractors are the custodians of project delivery and have to balance several elements successfully to ensure that their business thrives, whilst delivering projects in line with the developer’s vision, on time and on budget.

Three nominations were submitted to this category, however the judges decided that only one was truly worthy of recognition, with the win going to McLaren Construction.

The firm’s nomination highlighted a solid track record of delivering challenging projects on tight timelines, as well as its work in the growing data centre space. Its nomination also noted that the firm is frequently engaged by clients during the early stages of design of a project, and has demonstrated significant expertise

in design and build, and keeping to time and budget constraints during project delivery. The nomination also detailed the firm’s focus on HSE and how it engages with staff at every level, through a variety of staff focused activities and meetings.

“We’re delighted with this win, it’s great to come along and be recognised alongside our peers for the great work that we do. We’ve been doing well with our projects and are now looking outside of the UAE for future growth. Our focus really is to continue doing what we do well, which has contributed to our success, and has enabled us to work with great clients who we deliver safe and quality products in good time,” said Mark Hunt, Regional Managing Director at McLaren Construction.

WINNER McLaren Construction

Editor’s Choice Award –Luxury

Residential Development of the Year

Large Contractor of the Year

NOMINEES

ALEC Engineering & Contracting

Sobha Constructions

The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)

WINNER

ALEC Engineering & Contracting

This category seeks to recognise the best of the region’s large contractors and was open to nominations from firms with over US $1bn in annual revenue.

Six nominations were submitted, and after spirited debate, just three were shortlisted, with ALEC Engineering & Contracting sourcing the most first choice votes from the judges.

The firm has interests across the Middle East and is a trusted name when it comes to the execution of complex and iconic projects, from airports to hotels and resorts, to malls and high rise residential buildings. Its nomination highlighted its

significant growth in 2023 with regards to innovation, aligning with market technology and stakeholder needs, and it’s deeper focus on sustainable development.

“Winning an award like this is always a great testament to the end of a fantastic year; at ALEC it’s something that we cherish and always look forward to. We’ve got a lot of great teams working very hard across the wider group, both at a corporate and project level, so it’s just fantastic to be here tonight, and to be able to share this award with the rest of the company,” said Severin Tenim, Head of Strategic Projects & Development at ALEC.

Big Project Middle East is one of the most well respected construction focused publications in the Middle East region; each month, the magazine features a variety of exclusive interviews and site visits. Following a sit down interview with UAEbased developer MAG around its upcoming Keturah Reserve luxury residential project in mid2023, the magazine’s editorial team decided to recognise the project at the 2023 Big Project Middle East Awards.

The Keturah Reserve project comprises townhouses, villas, apartments and penthouses, and a variety of amenities designed to offer a luxury living experience like no other development in the region, all

while enhancing quality of life for its residents. The project is currently being developed in Dubai with a significant focus on environmental responsibility, and is destined to raise the bar for luxury residential developments when it is fully delivered.

“We did a lot of studies ahead of launching our Keturah Reserve project, so that we could deliver something that is truly exceptional, and raises the bar for luxury real estate in the region. We’ve had an exceptional response to the project from the market and from investors, which now includes winning this award from the Big Project Middle East team,” said Talal Moafaq Al Gaddah, Senior Executive Vice Chairman, MAG.

WINNER Keturah Reserve

Project of the Year: Fit-Out

NOMINEES

One & Only One Za’abeel – ALEC FITOUT

Intercontinental Residences – Depa

&

With this category, Big Project Middle East aims to recognise outstanding fit-out work from across the Middle East region.

Four nominations were considered by the panel of judges, with two being voted worthy of the shortlist on the night.

Ultimately, the One & Only One Za’abeel by ALEC FITOUT secured the win, with a quality nomination that showcased the project’s ultra-luxurious finishes, and intricate detailing that aligns with the parent brand’s values, and ensures its guests enjoy a luxury experience that befits the name.

The project called for significant innovation from the contractor, collaboration with global teams, flexibility to

Project of the Year: Offsite Construction

manage fast-tracked projects, and the ability to deliver an energy efficient space that adheres to industry-leading standards.

“It’s brilliant to win an award for the One & Only One Za’abeel. That project saw an incredible effort put in by the team, and the quality achieved is absolutely exceptional. We have a number of luxury and ultra-luxury brands in that project, which includes SIRO which is a new five star wellness destination. Overall that project is 53,000sqm and is one of the most complex projects we’ve ever executed and we couldn’t be happier with the end result,” remarked Tom Gilmartin, Business Development Manager at ALEC FITOUT.

The Crest – Sobha Constructions

The Point – DBB Contracting Group

NOMINEES WINNER

The Point – DBB Contracting

Offsite construction has emerged as a viable alternative to traditional construction. Thanks to its numerous benefits, several projects in the region have been delivered using this delivery methodology. This category looks to recognise standout projects that have been delivered partially or fully using offsite construction.

Three nominations were submitted, however just two were chosen for the shortlist, with The Point by DBB Contracting getting the winning nod. The project opened to the public a little over a year ago and stands as an impressive project that called for complex and unique

design, along with innovative methods of execution and installation. The finished project stands as functional and elegant monument that fully relied on the use of floating marine construction plants, and was completed in 400 days.

“We are very grateful for being chosen to win this award, it’s a fantastic acknowledgement of a very complex project. So I’d like to thank all the stakeholders that were involved in the project from the design, right through to its execution. This is a great win for us, thank you,” said Eugene Terre’Blanche, General Manager at DBB Contracting.

WINNER

One

Only One Za’abeel – ALEC FITOUT

MEP Project of the Year

NOMINEES

New Delta Wastewater Treatment Plant – The Arab Contractors

SeaWorld Animal Life & Safety Systems – ALEMCO & Miral

Skylight - Al Wathba – LASCO JV SSG

WINNER

New Delta Wastewater Treatment Plant – The Arab Contractors

This category seeks to honour outstanding MEP projects from across the region.

Seven nominations were submitted, with four making it through to the second round of eliminations. Due to the quality of each nomination, the judges chose to shortlist all four projects, with the New Delta Wastewater Treatment Plant by The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.) securing the win.

The project stood out as it would positively impact the country by supporting population growth, reducing

strain on existing resources, while create millions of jobs in the region. It boasts complex MEP design and engineering work in support of sustainable and environmental mandates, and has already achieved four Guinness World Records.

“We are pleased to return to the BPME Awards and win for this important project. I hope we will continue to earn recognition for our work in the future but in the meantime, I am very proud to be at the awards and to have won this award. Thank you,” said a spokesperson.

Project of the Year: Refurbishment & Retrofit

NOMINEES

AT.MOSPHERE – ALEC FITOUT

Restoration of Amr Ibn Al-Aas Mosque – The Arab Contractors

Unified 7 UAE Customer Happiness Centres – MOHAP

WINNER

Unified 7 UAE Customer Happiness Centres – MOHAP

With this category, Big Project looks to highlight exemplary refurbishment and retrofit projects in the region.

12 nominations were submitted to this category, and following the first round of eliminations by the Big Project Middle East editorial team, seven nominations remained for consideration.

During the second round of eliminations, the judges chose to shortlist just three nominations for recognition on the night of the awards, with the UAE’s Ministry of Health & Prevention taking the win for

its UAE Customer Happiness Centres refurbishment project.

The judges were impressed by the refurbishment project’s broad scope and its focus on delivering identical experiences and services to users across seven different locations in the UAE. The project comprised design unification, digital transformation which included new systems’ integration and connectivity, the introduction of new health and safety procedures, and the deployment of newly designed HVAC systems to ensure occupant health and comfort.

The Crest, Sobha Hartland – Sobha Constructions

Project of the Year: Energy

WINNER

Khalifa Port Admin Building by Aby Dhabi Ports Group

This category recognises the Middle East’s top energyfocused projects, whether they are a new build or expansion/ refurbishment of existing facilities.

Three nominations were submitted to this category, however, the judges felt that only one deserved recognition, so this category has no shortlist, with the Khalifa Port Admin Building by Aby Dhabi Ports Group securing the win.

The nomination showcased the project’s laser focus on sustainability, and reducing its impact on the environment.

The structure in question boasts a number of active and passive energy saving features, including a high performance building envelope enclosure and glazing system, a high efficiency variable refrigerant flow system, electronically commutated motor fans for fresh air handling units

and fan coil units, a LED lighting system with occupancy sensors and daylight control, and only uses Energy Star appliances. It also achieved Net Positive status via its rooftop solar PV system, which generates 150% of the structure’s operational energy requirements.

“An immense amount of work was done to make this building, and the other projects that Abu Dhabi Ports Group is working on, as sustainable as possible. One of the certificates we went for with this project is Edge Net Zero, which is a world recognised certification. This achievement demonstrates how sustainable the building is, and how we are achieving Net Zero buildings with a third party certification, not just by the intent of the client,” stated Mohammad Hazem Soudan, Head of Commissioning at Jacobs, who accepted the award on behalf of Abu Dhabi Ports Group.

Project of the Year: Water

NOMINEES

New Delta Wastewater Treatment Plant –Arab Contractors-Metito-Orascom-Hassan Allam JV

Shuqaiq 3 RO Desalination Plant – ACCIONA

WINNER

New Delta Wastewater Treatment Plant –Arab Contractors-Metito-Orascom-Hassan Allam JV

This category aims to recognise the Middle East’s top water-and wastewater focused projects, whether they are a new build or expansion/refurbishment of existing facilities.

Three projects were submitted for consideration, and following the judges’ discussions, two were deemed worthy of being shortlisted. Thanks to winning the majority of first choice votes, the New Delta Wastewater Treatment Plant by Arab ContractorsMetito-Orascom-Hassan Allam JV was giving the winning nod.

The New Delta Wastewater Treatment Plant was ultimately

chosen as the winning project, as it will reduce pressure on scare natural resources, combat water shortages and improve supply, and will support the growth of agricultural land in the area by 30% over the next five years. It is also expected to create millions of jobs in the surrounding areas.

“We are delighted to have been recognised alongside other great projects, and are thankfully to the Big Project Middle East team and the panel of judges, for giving us the award for this important wastewater project,” said a spokesperson at The Arab Contractors.

Project of the Year: Infrastructure & Transport

NOMINEES

Greater Cairo Metro Line 3 – Phase 3A - The Arab Contractors

LRT – The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)

UAE National Railway – Etihad Railway

WINNER

UAE National Railway – Etihad Railway

This category recognises standout infrastructure projects in the Middle East region.

Seven nominations were submitted, with the judges choosing to shortlist three. Following a tally of votes, the UAE National Railway by Etihad Railway was chosen as the winner.

The project involves multiple stakeholders and over 28,000 experts, specialists and workers. It is spread across 3,000 sites where over 6,000 pieces of machinery and equipment are in operation. It has recorded over 130m safe manhours of work and

Project of the Year: Leisure, Retail and Hospitality

NOMINEES

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi – ALEC Engineering & Contracting

The Islamic Cultural Centre in the New Administrative CapitalThe Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.)

WINNER

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi – ALEC Engineering & Contracting

This category recognises a standout leisure, retail or hospitality project, whether it is a standalone structure or a masterplan combining multiple elements.

Over 15 nominations were submitted, and following two rounds of eliminations, a shortlist of just two was produced, with SeaWorld Abu Dhabi by ALEC Engineering & Contracting taking the prize.

Spread over 256,000sqm, it comprises six unique areas, 23 F&B outlets and has been painstakingly built with a focus on sustainability.

As a result, it has achieved the ESTIDAMA 2 Pearl Certification, and will be operated with a research and rehabilitation centre in support of marine conservation.

“ALEC was the main contractor on the project and it was quite a challenging project for us. It is one of the most unique projects in the Middle East and you could even say the whole world. Despite the complexity involved, we handed over a quality project on time, and are excited to see it take its place on the world stage,” said Joseph Rif, Site Manager at ALEC Engineering & Contracting.

in-cooperation with government and service agencies, has issued 40,000 approval certificates. It has achieved significant progress on-ground in the last 12 months, and is already partial operational and has offset over 54,000t of CO2 emissions.

“Thank you very much to the Big Project Middle East Awards for giving us an opportunity to showcase Etihad Rail’s work and pursuit of excellence. We are very honoured to be recognised here, thank you,” said Sulaiman Al Hammadi, Director of Excellence Department at Etihad Rail.

Project of the Year: Residential

Editor’s Choice AwardEfficiency in Construction

WINNER

Waves Grande by Sobha Constructions

Delivering projects on time continues to be challenging endeavour in the region, however there are several examples of projects that have been delivered on time or even ahead of time, while remaining true to their original vision.

The Big Project Middle East editorial team became aware of one such project in the run up to the 2023 edition of the BPME Awards, and decided to recognise it as an example of construction efficiency.

were managed thanks to the implementation of lean principles, the standardisation of construction activities and procedures, and the use of cutting-edge technology.

Intercontinental Residences – DEPA

Seef Lusail Residential Development – Parsons

NOMINEES WINNER

Seef Lusail Residential Development – Parsons

Residential projects are a key part of a city’s real estate market and as owner/renter appetites change, residential developments have to evolve to keep pace with demands. This category recognises residential project, whether they are a standalone structure or a large residential masterplan.

15 nominations were submitted, which meant the judges had to work hard to produce a shortlist and a winner. Following debate, two projects were shortlisted, with the Seef Lusail Residential Development by Parsons taking the most first choice votes.

The winning project is part of a larger programme that will

eventually accommodate 200,000 residents, 170,000 employees, and will welcome over 80,000 visitors. The project has been designed with a significant focus on minimising its impact on the environment, while remaining aesthetically pleasing to those occupying the structure, as well as those viewing it from afar.

“This is an exciting win for Parsons, thank you very much for selecting us for this prestigious award. We look forward to continuing our great work in the region, and to securing more awards that recognise our work in the future,” said a spokesperson at Parsons.

The Waves Grande by Sobha Constructions comprises 42 high-end apartments and was actually delivered within a 24-month timeframe, demonstrating a 14.59% saving in time, while adhering fully to its allocated budget. These accomplishments and others

“It’s wonderful to receive this award because this is a project that I was connected with directly. It was an astounding project, which demonstrated fantastic cohesion and collaboration between the team and all the other stakeholders. It was only through this close collaboration and focus on efficiency that we could achieve a 14.59% saving in time. The project was a benchmark for us and we look forward to enhancing our productivity even further in the future,” said a spokesperson at Sobha Constructions.

Desert Board

A Sustainable Alternative

Big Project ME talks to Matthias Gelber about the growing use of nature-based solutions in construction, and how Desert Board’s PSBs are an ideal material for a variety of applications around the world

The construction segment across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is booming; according to industry data, the project pipeline has surpassed US $3tn, with Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the UAE accounting for over 60% of that total. This boom is tied to ongoing economic diversification agendas but, many of the countries in the region have also simultaneously unveiled mandates and goals to decarbonise and achieve Net Zero, in support of the goals of the Paris Agreement.

Globally, buildings are responsible for 39% of global energy related carbon emissions: 28% from operational emissions (lighting, heating, ventilation, cooling etc,), and the remaining 11% from materials and construction, as per a report from the World Green Building Council. This data then seemingly places the construction boom at odds with countries’ Net Zero goals and mandates.

While Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHGe) from operational emissions are higher (28%) than embodied carbon (11%), it is critical to tackle the latter immediately because those emissions are being released into the atmosphere

now (as a result of the extraction and production of materials; transportation of materials; manufacturing; construction; demolition and/or retrofitting, and end-of-life deconstruction). On the other hand, operational emissions are spread over a building’s entire lifecycle, which could be 50 years or more.

One significant way the construction sector can tackle embodied carbon is through the development and use of sustainable materials, rather than traditional materials with high embodied carbon footprints. Wood has been mooted as a potential solution to help decarbonise buildings; this material has been used by builders for thousands of years, and is second only to stone in terms of its use in the history of construction.

Wood is a perfect example of environmentally sustainable material, as it is a naturally occurring resource, is biodegradable and renewable, and carries the lowest carbon footprint of any comparable building material. Its production also does not require high-energy, fossil fuel reliant processes which is in stark contrast to materials such as steel, brick and plastic. The big challenge with this material is it is sourced by cutting down trees which are essential to the sequestration of carbon (as a tree grows, it stores more carbon by holding it in its accumulated tissue).

Following a 20-year plus journey however, a powerful and sustainable material has been developed in the UAE, according to environmentalist, green entrepreneur and inspirational speaker, Matthias Gelber. Known as the ‘GreenMan’, Gelber has been passionate about green living from a young age. In 2008, he was voted ‘Greenest Person on the Planet’ in an online competition by 3rdWhale in Canada, and constantly advocates for green solutions around the world through inspirational talks and direct engagement with public and private sector organisations.

Gelber states, “Desert Board’s Palm Strand Boards (PSB) are the ultimate bio-based building material because you can use it to create a carbon sink without cutting down a single tree. As an environmentalist, it saddens me to see trees cut down but here, this innovatively engineered wooden board is actually

made from abundantly available pruned palm fronds, which have to be cut to support the growth of the date palm tree. It is made from date palm biomass that would otherwise be sent to a landfill; instead Desert Board takes the biomass and creates an authentic nature-based construction material, a high-quality PSB that has many potential applications.”

According to Gelber, he encountered Desert Board during a visit to the WoodShow Dubai in 2023. Here, Gelber notes that in recent years Biophilic

design has been gaining popularity, and its popularity was further spurred on following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. This fact combined with a growing need for sustainable building materials is what makes Desert Board such a powerful offering, he says.

“As human beings we all need natural light, and we need to be around nature to avoid mental health issues – this became obvious as we saw accelerated mental issues during the pandemic and the lockdowns that were instituted around the world. From an architectural standpoint, there is a growing movement to bring nature back into our built environment because the health and wellness of people occupying those structures, as well as those who work in construction is very important.”

He adds, “Palm waste going to landfill ultimately generates methane emissions, so by converting that waste into a high quality PSB, Desert Board is actively supporting the fight against climate change and the move towards a circular economy. At the same time, when the PSBs are used in structures instead of traditional materials, it is also reducing the structure’s embodied carbon, and simultaneously is creating an effective carbon sink. As it is also

produced with no-added formaldehyde, it is safer for the people who are making and installing the PSBs, as well as the structure’s occupants.”

According to the United States’ Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ‘exposure to formaldehyde can irritate the skin, throat, lungs, and eyes. Repeated exposure to formaldehyde can possibly lead to cancer’. The CDC also says ‘workers may be harmed by exposure to formaldehyde, and the level of exposure depends upon the dose, duration, and work being done.’

Desert Board’s PSBs are produced in a state of the art factory in KEZAD, Abu Dhabi, and Gelber reveals that the factory is powered by low carbon electricity from the Abu Dhabi grid. The high-performance PSBs are fire rated, offer excellent strength and have been certified for use across a variety of applications such as doors, furniture, flooring and many others, he outlines.

“It’s a carbon sink; per cubic metre of 800kg of density, we have 400kg of CO2 sequestered. This has been calculated by an independent consultant and considers the footprint of production, raw materials, type of glue used, power consumption etc,” he explains.

Gelber tells Big Project Middle East that in the past, builders in Singapore and Malaysia used wood extensively.

He adds that traditional houses and shelters in some countries in the Middle East were also built from date palm fronds, and have withstood the hot and humid conditions that the region experiences. He says there is now a growing trend, where wood is once again being used to deliver structures.

He highlights several examples in Asia, stating, “I’ve seen high rises that are built using cross laminated timber (CLT) and glulam beams. In the Philippines where I live, there are two airports that have recently won a lot of design awards, and they use glulam structural beams, which are imported from Austria. In Singapore, there is a four storey US $150mn mass timber building that was developed as an experiment, and is partially sponsored by the Singapore government. These are great examples of what’s possible with wood but the issue with those projects and materials are that trees had to be cut down, and the materials had to be sourced from European countries.”

He continues, “Desert Board’s PSBs are exceptionally versatile

because they are not just like standard MDF boards that can only be used for interior applications and furniture, it’s also structural grade. That means it can be used to deliver those same structures I mentioned, without the need to cut down a single tree. These PSBs could revolutionise construction in the region and beyond, because you can effectively build structures and cities that can become carbon sponges, and the material is available locally, thanks to the abundantly available biomass from the tree of life.”

The use of sustainable materials to reduce embodied carbon in construction is critical to a sustainable future, however, built environment stakeholders will need to adjust their thinking, and embrace nature-based solutions.

Gelber believes this will be a gradual process and says government and big developers will be critical to accelerate this change. “Government and big developers should experiment with materials like Desert Board’s PSBs to show people that it is possible to deliver structures with nature-based solutions. Pilot projects are critical and those companies that have committed to decarbonisation of Scope 3 emissions have an important role to play. Aldar is a great example, they have very impressive sustainability commitments outlined in their report, and they have a section on supply chain, on innovation, and are looking to experiment with new ways of doing things.”

He asserts, “What I propose to local developers and governments is to work with Desert Board and develop projects that people can see and experience, which prove that it is actually possible to have something that is in-tune with the local climate, in-tune with sourcing local materials, and is durable and is healthy for people building the structures, as well as for the mental health of the occupants.”

The GreenMan Matthias Gelber is an environmentalist, green entrepreneur and inspirational speaker, and was voted as the ‘Greenest Person on the Planet’ in 2008.

Gelber also highlights that there are other potential benefit to using Desert Board’s PSBs; better insulation and greater construction efficiency. “When you take advantage of naturebased solutions, usually you have better insulation. Obviously you can leverage sandwich boards and put in Styrofoam but you could also just use wood or wool. I believe there are even applications where Desert Board’s PSBs can be leveraged in retrofit or new build projects to build self-insulated air ducts, rather than using aluminium or steel and investing in separate insulation.”

He adds, “There is potential for construction efficiency to increase by using nature-based solutions such as Desert Board’s PSBs. When building multi-storey light structures with conventional concrete, there comes a point where you have to wait a couple of days for the concrete to cure and achieve its relative strength, before you can move to the next level. By using PSB based structural components alongside steel and cement, it would be possible to accelerate the speed of delivery of structures, which could also lead to cost savings.”

39% Globally, buildings are responsible for 39% of global energy related carbon emissions

As a proof of concept, in close proximity to its manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi, Desert Board has built a twostorey house using its PSBs for the walls, the roof and even the structural beams. There is product development with tongue and groove floorings as well at the moment, where you can even do parquet type flooring, as a surface, Gelber adds.

He continues, “ I’d like to see what the company did with that carbon sink house replicated as a pilot project with other regional developers, where the structures are used for residential or commercial applications. There are immense benefits to using Desert Board’s PSBs as we’ve just discussed.”

Gelber highlights organisations in the UAE, including financial institutions, are getting very serious about decarbonisation, and are stepping up their Net Zero commitments, to cover Scope 3 emissions as well. Scope 3 emissions are those that are not produced by the organisation itself and are not the result of activities from assets owned or controlled by them, but by those that it’s indirectly responsible for up and down its value chain.

“In the past lenders who offered sustainable financing may have just checked to see if a project was LEED or Estidama compliant, whereas now it is moving to actual asset performance. So before agreeing to finance a project, they will need to see the asset’s embodied carbon footprint and its operational carbon footprint. Assets that don’t meet their criteria will not be funded or may have higher interest rates, so this could provoke major change in the sector, in support of a sustainable future.”

Gelber reckons that Desert Board’s PSBs are the ideal material to spearhead the journey towards Net Zero, and says that the company’s PSBs are seeing a great deal of interest on a global scale.

“Desert Board’s PSBs are the perfect nature-based solution to lead a sustainable transition in the built environment. I’m excited to see the UAE government and developers embrace it, to accelerate decarbonisation and develop iconic structures that are carbon sinks, which are made in the country from abundantly available palm tree biomass,” concludes Gelber.

Tarabot Pavilion

The pavilion was unveiled at COP28; the architect used modular and nested cone components crafted from locally sourced, sustainable materials — including clay, mycelium, Desert Board and upcycled fabric.

The annual networking event brought together construction stakeholders to engage in friendly competition

The 2024 edition of the Big Project ME Golf Day took place on 31 January, and hosted over 70 individuals from local and international construction firms. Previously hosted at the Arabian Ranches Golf Club in the nearby Arabian Ranches gated community, the annual event returned to the Trump International Golf Club, Dubai in 2024.

The event kicked off mid-morning, with individuals participating in friendly competition under the cover of perfect weather in mixed teams. Following a round of friendly competition on the greens, the second half of the event comprised a buffet dinner and networking at the venue’s club house.

“The Big Project ME Golf Day is a longstanding industry staple that has achieved a cult following within the industry. Networking events such as this are a great way to bring the industry together in a relaxed environment, and it’s great to see

the event maintain its standing as a ‘must attend’ event for many individuals in the sector, well over a decade after it was first launched, said Jason Saundalkar, Head of Content at Big Project Middle East.

“The golf day stands as the Big Project Middle East (BPME) brand’s most well attended industry networking event in the calendar year; the event is usually oversubscribed by a factor of two, and that held true with this 2024 edition.”

The 2024 edition of the BPME Golf Day was sponsored by: AtkinsRéalis; Kingspan Insulation and Meesons.

“Going forward, the BPME team is looking at ways to not only grow the golf day event in 2025 but add a greater number of networking events to its roster in the current calendar year. BPME is the industry’s leading construction focused publication and our events – which includes our well-respected conferences and awards - have contributed significantly to maintaining that standing in the region,” concluded Saundalkar.

SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

Reverse Osmosis

Tackling Water Demand in Qatar

The State of Qatar has made significant strides in its water security strategy by embracing seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination technology says Guillermo Hijós, ACCIONA ME O&M Director, Water Solutions

The water sector in Qatar is a good example of a successful partnership between public and private sector. Public represented by Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation ‘KAHRAMAA’, and the private sector represented by Qatar Electricity & Water Company (‘QEWC’) and others, where long-term public private partnerships are made.

The National Environment and Climate Change Strategy (QNE) announced in 2021, recognises the need to rely on reverse osmosis (RO) as a sustainable technology in the

region to produce more than 55% of desalinated water. The Qatar National Vision 2030 also has a particular focus on reducing consumption, improving conservation, and on the circular water economy, highlighting the value of research, development, and innovation (RDI) in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

From 2016, reverse osmosis plants started producing municipal water at large scale for the state of Qatar. Since then, Qatar has increased its reliance on this technology which has proven to be robust. Currently, reverse osmosis desalination represents circa 48% of the potable water produced nationally.

QATAR

One important contribution of the implementation of the RO technology is the fact that it is not linked to the generation of electricity using gas turbines, as the Multi-Stage Flash (MSF) technology relies on heat recovery steam generators downstream of gas turbines. Hence, it provides better energy efficiency ratios while working independently to the power generation cycle. Typical total equivalent energy consumption for MSF desalination plant ranges from 22.5 to 25kWh/m3. If the thermal energy is deducted from those values since it is generally provided by the cooling circuit of an operating gas turbine, the specific electrical energy consumption is reduced to 5kWh/m3.

High energy efficiencies achieved with the SWRO sit up to 6.12 times better than reported average equivalent electrical energy associated to the MSF technology, and the average specific energy used is 22.6% more efficient than the average energy consumption values associated to the Seawater Reverse Osmosis technology with a brackish water second pass, which resulted in a more sustainable water source with a lesser associated carbon footprint.

Ras Abu Fontas A3 (RAF A3) Seawater Reverse Osmosis desalination plant forms part of the Ras Abu Fontas Independent Water and Power Plant (IWPP) located south of Doha. It has a capacity of 163MLD. It started its construction in 2015 by the consortium formed by TTCL and Mitsubishi Corporation for which ACCIONA was the main subcontractor. The construction of the entire facility was completed on time in February 2017, but the plant started commercial operation of the first 100MLD in September 2016. The plant represents a real milestone in the world of desalination, as it is the first time that reverse osmosis technology will be used on a large scale in Qatar.

Umm Al Houl Power (UHP) is another IWPP located at Qatar Economic Zone in the State of Qatar. It was built with an MSF desalination unit with a capacity of 455MLD and with a SWRO plant with a capacity of 280MLD whose construction started on 2015 by a consortium formed by Samsung-Hitachi for which ACCIONA

was the main subcontractor and was completed on time in June 2017.

In 2019, an extension of the SWRO plant was awarded to the consortium formed by ACCIONA- Samsung for an extra capacity of 280MLD, which was also completed on time in March 2021, resulting in a total reverse osmosis capacity of 560MLD inside UHP IWPP.

Both plants are currently operated and maintained by ACCIONA and owned by QEWC (RAF A3) and Umm Al Houl Power (UHP) respectively. In RAF A3, ACCIONA operates the plant on a back-to-back contractual arrangement

Challenges

The production of water in Qatar has faced a number of challenges in recent years, including the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

with Mitsubishi Corporation, whilst in UHP the operations and maintenance (O&M) contract for the initial plant and its subsequent extension was stablished directly with Umm Al Houl Power. Qatar now is able to produce 723MLD of reverse osmosis desalinated water per day, which represents up to 48% of its national water demand and is able to attend an equivalent population of 4.6m inhabitants.

CHALLENGES

Throughout this period, water production through seawater reverse osmosis desalination in Qatar has not been free of challenges. Apart from the challenges associated to the incoming seawater quality regarding presence of algae, jelly fish and turbidity and the high temperatures achieved during the summer period, other geopolitical situations have resulted in added pressure to the plant operation and maintenance.

The main ones have been the COVID outbreak in 2020 and 2021 and more recently the 2022 World Cup. Those events illustrate well that tight collaboration between the client and the operator is essential to be able to manage difficult circumstances and to ensure security of the water supply.

Throughout those seven years, Qatar has managed to strengthen its

supply chain and level of autonomy. ACCIONA implemented from the start a business continuity plan which also contributed to identify alternate routes, materials, and suppliers when needed. QEWC, UHP and ACCIONA and all its suppliers worked cooperatively from the beginning to ensure that the desalination plants always remained fully available with an impressive commitment from its employees. Qatar also boosted the manufacturing of goods and today most of the commodities required to operate the desalination plants are produced locally.

The improvement on Qatar’s self-sufficiency achieved from 2017 and the incorporation of the lessons learned on the business continuity strategies adopted by QEWC, UHP and ACCIONA were key to face the supply chain restrictions that occurred during the pandemic, with no impact on the plants’ availability.

The successful 2022 World Cup celebration also required a reliable water supply to meet the increasing water needs of all visitors. A well-coordinated

723

Qatar now is able to produce 723MLD of reverse osmosis desalinated water per day

plan was defined between ACCIONA and its clients to ensure readiness and to stablish adequate contingencies to face any unexpected event.

TANGIBLE RESULTS

The implementation of seawater reverse osmosis in the State of Qatar is also a story of contribution to the National Water Security Plan proving that this technology is capable of reliably delivering the high water-quality standards specified by KAHRAMAA with a lower energy demand than its technological competitor, the MSF.

The combined availability of the seawater reverse osmosis plants in Qatar is significant, and the available capacity in megaliters (ML) grows as plants come on-line. From the first year of operation, the availability of the plants has been consistently above 98% and it has been above 99% over the last four years.

The high availability of the plants is especially remarkable since it has been achieved with a water demand that has been close to maximum capacity

from the moment the SWRO plants were brought on-line. Both RAF A3 and Umm Al Houl Expansion have been operated at 100% dispatch load since they were brought on-line. The combined required dispatch for those plants has been around 90% from the moment they were brought on-line.

The reliability of those plants is also characterised by the ratio between the scheduled and unscheduled (or forced) availability losses. As ACCIONA’s knowledge of the plants improved, the forced shutdowns have been reduced significantly despite the increased production levels, which makes the plants more predictable and dependable.

In summary, during the last seven years Qatar has been able to successfully incorporate RO desalinated water as a key contributor to its municipal water network, and has proved the reliability of this technology to be further considered in its future growth plans. It has also proven the importance of a robust solution on the EPC and O&M phases to achieve those results.

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Paint

The Impact of Paint

MIDDLE EAST

Jotun Paints Abu Dhabi’s Svein Johan Stub on how paint can enhance construction value

In the UAE’s construction industry, strategic decisions in property enhancement emerge as a top priority. Amidst various factors influencing construction value, paints often remain an underestimated element. Quality paint is an integral component in construction that transcends mere aesthetics to substantially contribute to property valuations

Having engaged in a plethora of projects with Jotun, it is understood that colour selection extends beyond personal preference and emerges

as a strategic decision influencing the perceived value of a property. In a competitive market like the UAE where first impressions carry immense weight, exterior paint not only enhances architectural features but also effectively communicates durability and modernity.

Properties with well-chosen exterior colours have shown a notable increase in perceived value, attracting a broader range of potential buyers and quickening the sales process. At times property developers can leverage the brand positioning built from the

painting of one project to build on its success and construct additional properties that are painted in a similar style, thus creating its own brand identity and increasing its value from the paint design and matching colours.

COLOUR PSYCHOLOGY

A vital consideration for designers is the general ambiance of the structure crafted by the paint colours. Paint brands recognise the deployment of colour psychology establishes visually pleasing connections between interior and exterior spaces, ensuring a seamless transition that appeals to stakeholders. For example, the subtle influence of earthy tones or neutral hues contributes to an overall calming effect, making spaces more inviting and desirable. Thus, homes with well-coordinated interior and exterior colour schemes can witness a reduction in the time spent on the market, due to increased demand and value.

SPACIOUSNESS WITH COLOUR

Creating a sense of spaciousness is integral to maximising construction value, as buyers are willing to pay more for larger spaces or the perspective of spaciousness. Paints advocating for white and light neutral tones prevent spaces from appearing cluttered and help areas look open and airier. Paint colour choices like this can increase value through perspectives of spaciousness, and provide future occupants the flexibility to personalise their rooms with a relatively adaptable paint colour. Such hues align with trends of property buyers seeking homes that exude a sense of freedom and openness. Moreover, properties with colours that highlight spaciousness may have a faster sale rate compared to those that don’t.

BUILDING RESILIENCE

In the UAE’s hot climate, durability is non-negotiable in the

Enhancing project durability

Textured

Advocate

Svein

construction equation. Innovative paint solutions from credible brands offer a range of external coats designed to withstand harsh conditions. Light colours such as white, beige, or grey provide a contemporary aesthetic and contribute to reducing heat absorption, enhancing the longevity of structures.

Textured paints with features like crack bridging further exemplify the commitment to longevity and low maintenance, thereby helping construction build value through improved durability. It can also often happen that one does not associate beauty with protection, where property buyers might assume that one is exclusive to the other. Hence, developers must choose paints that can do both to add to the property value.

NAVIGATING REGULATIONS

Navigating local regulations is an essential aspect of any construction project in the UAE. By aligning with local guidelines and paint colour codes, properties become less prone to maintenance from mediocre compliance and present ready opportunities for potential buyers.This foresight

alleviates concerns of additional paint jobs thereby positioning painted structures as hassle-free investments.

MEETING STANDARDS

Innovative paints can also help achieve building certifications that improve the overall positioning and construction value. For example, using certified paints that exceed benchmark standards can not only meet proven performance criteria and increase the building’s reputation as an innovative structure, but also contribute towards meeting green building standards –which if achieved, can increase the property’s value due to increased energy efficiency and durability.

As the UAE’s construction industry continues to evolve, innovative paint solutions stand as pivotal players in elevating construction value. Through strategic colour choices, durability considerations, and compliance with local regulations, paint contributes to the long-term viability and attractiveness of properties in the competitive marketplace. For B2B and B2C stakeholders, embracing innovative paint solutions ensures that projects not only meet industry standards but exceed expectations, setting new benchmarks for excellence and added value in the vibrant construction landscape of the UAE.

Johan Stub, General Manager, Jotun Paints Abu Dhabi.

Final Update

OMNIYAT begins handover of The Lana Residences

The handover is the developer’s first within the Marasi Bay Marina area

OMNIYAT has begun handovers of The Lana Residences, Dorchester Collection, Dubai. Positioned within Dubai’s upcoming premium lifestyle destination and connected to a 187m water promenade, The Lana Residences aims to enrich residents’ elevated living experiences, by providing direct access to high-end culinary experiences, and chic boutiques.

Following its acquisition of Marasi Bay Marina in September 2023, the handover highlights OMNIYAT’s commitment to transforming the bay

area into an ultra-luxury waterfront enclave, the developer said. The Lana is said to present its residents with a spectrum of leisure and luxury living. Within each living space, floor-to-ceiling windows provide maximising views of the Burj Khalifa District and the wider city-scape of Dubai. Crafted with attention to detail, the interiors are embellished with luxurious finishing, oak flooring and state-of-the-art furniture and appliances – all while adopting a sumptuous material palette, said OMNIYAT.

“The Lana Residences, Dorchester Collection, Dubai, are a befitting example of OMNIYAT’s fierce ambitions towards creating a life at home that is less ordinary, and more distinctive. In curating these iconic masterpieces with the world’s most visionary minds, we continue to contribute to the emirate’s global reputation as a home for the discerning few, while redefining the standards of

39 The Lana Residences comprises 39 ultraluxury residential units

uber luxury,” explained Mahdi Amjad, Founder and Chairman at OMNIYAT.

The handover comes directly after the opening of The Lana’s hospitality offering and Dorchester Collection’s very first hotel in the Middle East. Through its dedication to craft, curation and excellence, OMNIYAT will continue to empower lifestyles with elevated living experiences in the city.

Christopher Cowdray, President at Dorchester Collection concluded, “The Lana Residences are a sculpted masterpiece providing an elevated living experience with OMNIYAT’s exceptional quality and visionary design expertise. These exclusive apartments will serve as living canvases, combining award-winning Dorchester Collection hospitality, unparalleled bespoke services and a legendary way of life in the Marasi Bay Marina area. We will help enable residents to enjoy a life of ease, elegance and timeless glamour in the heart of the Burj Khalifa District.”

Lifestyle destination

The developer acquired Marasi Bay Marina in September 2023 and aims to turn it into a premium lifestyle destination.

It’s more than BIM, it’s industrialising construction

Successful design and construction of large capital assets requires speed, precision and close stakeholder collaboration. Yet most construction companies struggle with poor performance and productivity, cost overruns and low margins.

Adopting an integrated design and configuration approach, gives you more than the benefits of a BIM solution, it also:

• Enables a modular, repeatable and product-based approach to designing capital assets and infrastructure

• Synchronizes design processes to engineer better designs faster

• Automates design rules and processes to rapidly engineer custom solutions

• Ensures contractual and regulatory compliance with a systems-driven design approach