Author: Kasun Illankoon

As 2023 draws to a close, the landscape of Dubai’s residential construction sector has undergone remarkable transformation. Ewan Simpson, Associate Director & Residential Sector Lead at Turner & Townsend in Dubai, highlights some of the trends and factors that have been shaping Dubai’s residential sector over the last year. Ewan also highlights that as the sector continues to evolve, a comprehensive approach is crucial for the future success of in-country residential projects. 2022 and 2023 have seen a notable surge in the development of villa and townhouse communities, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences and lifestyle aspirations. The market has…

Kasun Illankoon speaks to Andy Biffen, Asset Development Executive Director, EWEC, about their latest projects, key initiatives to promote renewable energy, the importance of collaboration, and so much more Can you provide an overview of EWEC’s latest projects and their significance in meeting the growing energy demand while ensuring sustainability? In line with the UAE’s clear vision to develop a water and electricity sector that prioritises cutting-edge renewable and clean energy projects, EWEC is at the forefront of driving this transition. By leading the way, EWEC also aims to safeguard power and water security for Abu Dhabi and beyond. Driving…

By Prasoon Shrivastava, Founder & CEO of Prasoon Design Studio and Zepth When Abu Dhabi launched the ESTIDAMA Pearl Building Rating System in 2010, it was as much a decisive action as it was a precursor of more regulations in the global construction industry. Accordingly, administrations in leading cities globally have tightened the regulatory noose in construction, mandating stakeholders to comply with green building ratings. The overarching objective is to drive sustainability in an industry accounting for about 36% of the global final energy consumption and about 40% of the CO2 emissions.  The sustainability discourse in the construction industry is…

Authored by: Marco Fahd, Group Chairman and CEO, Versatile International Destination-scale projects not only showcase a nation’s capabilities but also reflect its heritage and identity. This is particularly evident in the Middle East, where the use of natural stone in these projects is providing not just building blocks but also a vital ingredient in forging the region’s architectural identity and its march towards forward-looking development.  For asset owners, a key challenge in sourcing natural stone for these large-scale projects is ensuring that the material is delivered on time, within budget, and to the desired standard of quality while navigating the…

Binghatti Developers, a leading Dubai-based real estate and property development company in the United Arab Emirates UAE, has announced the early completion of the Binghatti Heights project, which comprises 365 residential units located in Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC). Nestled at the heart of Dubai, the project boasts a strategic location close to key tourist destinations. Ideal for investors and homeowners alike, its location is centrally situated in one of the most vibrant spots in Dubai, JVC. Binghatti Heights features upscale apartments with a unique, modern ambience, fitted with state-of-the-art technology. The apartments range from one to three-bedroom units, alongside a…

Ras Al Khaimah’s real estate market is providing a lucrative climate for property developers according to research from Colliers, conducted on behalf of The Luxe Developers, highlighting the increase in transactions and value of real estate in the Emirate in recent years. According to the research, several factors are contributing to the growing popularity of Ras Al Khaimah’s, and more specifically, Al Marjan Island’s real estate market. The Wynn announcement, a multi-billion-dollar integrated resort, and the RAK Vision 2030 will diversify and position RAK as a destination of choice for industrial and business services, developing tourism and real estate, and…

King Salman Energy Park (SPARK), the leading energy industrial ecosystem, announced the significant expansion of its commercial and residential offerings in partnership with Bin Saedan Group’s Affordable Housing Company. This marks the third investment between SPARK and Bin Saedan Group, a leading real estate developer in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with over 80 years of experience. SPARK and Affordable House Company broke ground on the residential apartment complex on 25 December 2023. The residential complex will feature 459 fully furnished apartments with a combination of one-, two- and three-bedroom layouts. The apartments are intended for long stays incorporating the…

The Board of Directors of NEOM has announced Norlana, an ultra-modern active lifestyle community, as the latest addition to the evolving regional development in northwest Saudi Arabia. Situated on the Gulf of Aqaba’s coastline, Norlana creates a unique environment where an exclusive community of 3,000 residents will enjoy contemporary luxury fused with advanced technology, setting a pioneering standard for sustainable modern living. Within this contemporary community portfolio of 711 residential properties, Norlana offers deluxe mansions, spacious apartments and beach villas integrated with the surrounding dunes, bringing residents closer to serene nature. Norlana boasts a state-of-the-art 120-berth marina that will serve…

As Intersec, the leading international exhibition for fire, security, emergency services, safety, policing, and cybersecurity, gears up for its 25th-anniversary edition, the focus will be on remarkable innovation and collaborations within the fire and safety sector. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Intersec 2024 will convene from 16 – 18 January at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). This historic edition, themed ‘Innovating security tech for a quarter century’, is poised to be the largest in its history, with a significant emphasis on fire and rescue innovations, in collaboration with Dubai Civil…