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November 20, 2024 wicsummit0

Egis has announced the acquisition of Fenwick Iribarren Architects (FIA), an architecture practice founded by architects Mark Fenwick and Javier Iribarren. The acquisition is said to strengthen Egis’ position and ambition in the sports and entertainment sector through consulting and design for major future global sporting events.

FIA is a Madrid-based design practice founded in 1990, specialising in the design, rehabilitation, and consultancy of sports and events architecture. FIA’s record through their innovative approach to low-carbon design and fabrication of stadiums has made it a reference designer for UEFA (Union of European Football Associations), said a statement from Egis.

Egis has experience in sports infrastructure and event management throughout the world. The company supported the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 by integrating ICT, facility management, and security, across eight stadiums, as well as managing the carbon emissions and real-time consumption of water and electricity. Spearheading the event’s operations ensured seamless stadium operations and a commitment to sustainability. Egis has also provided more than 1,000,000 seats in sports facilities, such as the Stade Vélodrome in Marseille (France) or the Paul Biya Sports Complex in Olembe (Cameroon), it added.

The acquisition will not only allow Egis to expand its portfolio of services and offer its clients comprehensive solutions in the sports sector, but will also strengthen our presence in the Middle East and worldwide by creating synergies with the competences of Egis Group and the Egis Architecture line, the statement outlined.

“Joining the Egis Group and Egis’ Architecture Line is a great opportunity to take our company to the next level and to develop the potential of our teams in synergy with the technical capabilities of Egis and its architectural firms, particularly in the world of sport with a sustainable approach: a shared vision of both companies,” said Mark Fenwick and Javier Iribarren, FIA Senior Partners.

“We are delighted to welcome FIA to Egis’ Architecture Line. Their extraordinary talent, innovative mindset and commitment to excellence and sustainability align perfectly with our goals. We look forward to working with FIA to deliver inspiring, state-of-the-art sports facilities across the world which enhance the athlete and fan experience,” said Thomas Salvant, Director of Energy & Sustainable Cities at Egis.

FIA is one of the world’s top stadium design firms, with more than 40 awards to its name. They designed and built three of the eight stadiums for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. With more than 20 years of experience in sports architecture, their expertise led to the creation of the most innovative stadium ever built for a World Cup – the first demountable structure, made of reusable transport containers, Stadium 974, and the first cooling system in an open-air stadium, Education City Stadium, the statement concluded.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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November 19, 2024 wicsummit0
The Heavy Equipment and Truck (HEAT) Show is officially open, welcoming industry professionals, stakeholders, and enthusiasts to the Dharan Expo in Dammam. Taking place from 18 to 21 November 2024, the highly anticipated event will run daily from 4PM to 10PM.
Headlining the first day, TATA Motors officially launched its all-new Tata Prima 4440.S AMT Euro-V truck which has been designed specifically for the Middle East. Based on the brand’s flagship Prima platform, the Prima 4440.S AMT is the leading commercial vehicles manufacturer’s first Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) truck to arrive in the Saudi Arabia. The truck combines advanced engineering with robust performance to meet diverse operational demands. Featuring a powerful drivetrain, durable components, and a driver-centric cabin, the Prima 4440.S AMT aims to enhance productivity and fuel efficiency for customers. The launch coincided with Tata Motors’ participation in the Heavy Equipment and Trucks (HEAT) Show in Dammam, where the company also displayed five other high-performance models tailored to suit the specific needs of the Saudi market.
Unveiling Tata Motors’ HEAT show pavilion, Anurag Mehrotra, Head, International Business, Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles said, “Saudi Arabia is a key region for Tata Motors, where we have proudly established a strong presence and are serving the customers for decades. As the Kingdom undergoes rapid transformation, we remain committed to supporting its evolving mobility needs with our advanced solutions. With a strong focus on innovative technologies, reliability and customer profitability, we are proud to launch our first Automated Manual Transmission truck in the Kingdom. We are confident that its world-class reliability, performance and smart features will aid the country’s ambitious growth aspirations and offer long-term value for our customers.”
As the region’s premier dedicated event for the heavy equipment, commercial vehicle, and logistics sectors, the HEAT Show is showcasing the latest innovations, products, and solutions shaping the industry. Featuring a world-class line-up of exhibitors, live demonstrations, and networking opportunities, the event is set to be a hub for connecting decision-makers and fostering industry growth.
Following TATA Motor’s spectacular launch, visitors on day two will be able to see the Mercedes-Benz Actros Euro V which is being launched in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia for the first time by JuffaliTrucks, as well as see major annoucements and launches from Chinese powerhouse XCMG and eXpertise, one of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s fastest-growing machinery rental operations.
“We are thrilled to bring the HEAT Show to Dammam this year,” said HEAT Show Head of Content Stephen White. “This event serves as a platform for industry leaders to exchange knowledge, explore cutting-edge technology, and strengthen partnerships, all while highlighting the immense opportunities within the Kingdom’s dynamic market.”
Highlights of the show include:
  • Tata Motors – The flagship All New Tata Prima is debuting in the Kingdom for the first time, as well as five other high-performance models tailored to suit the specific needs of the Saudi market. Visitors can also participate in a series of on-stand activities including a special VR demonstration.
  • JuffaliTrucks and Daimler Trucks – Showcasing their advanced heavy vehicle lineup, including the new Euro-V Actros.
  • Live Equipment Demonstrations: Experience machinery being launched and displayed in the market for the first time.
  • Innovative Technology Displays: Explore advanced solutions revolutionising the heavy equipment and truck industries.
  • Key Industry Insights: Engage in discussions on market trends, sustainable practices, and future growth strategies.
With Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 driving significant infrastructure and development projects, the HEAT Show plays a pivotal role in showcasing the equipment and services crucial to the region’s transformation.
Visitor Information
Location: Dharan Expo, Dammam
Dates: 18th to 21st November 2024
Show Times: 4 PM to 10 PM daily
Admission is free for industry professionals, with onsite registration available. For further information, click here.
About the HEAT Show
The Heavy Equipment and Truck (HEAT) Show is the leading platform and event n the Middle East for connecting manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, and buyers in the heavy equipment and commercial vehicle sectors. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and regional development, the show supports the industry’s growth while creating valuable business opportunities.

The post Heavy Equipment and Truck (HEAT) Show opens in Dammam appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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November 19, 2024 wicsummit0

Keturah has announced the completion of infrastructure works at Keturah Reserve, its luxury residential development in Meydan. Following a rigorous vetting process, the project’s main contractor will be appointed to start work on the development, which is scheduled for completion by Q3 2027.

The project will feature 93 townhouses, 90 villas, and 533 units across six apartment block buildings. The project is the first residential development in the Middle East to immerse residents in nature through Bio Living to improve the physical, mental and emotional well-being of its occupants, the statement said.

Bio Living at Keturah Reserve creates the perfect synergy between the interior design, architecture and landscape, in complete respect of the surrounding ecosystem, it added.

“We are thrilled to announce the completion of infrastructure works and eagerly anticipate appointing the main works contractor to bring this project to life. Keturah Reserve embodies the highest standards of luxury living and introduces the region’s first Bio Living concept. This project is created to elevate and enrich the lives of all generations of our residents, and we are confident it will set a new benchmark for the regional real estate sector,” said Mo Moghrabi, Chief Development Officer at Keturah.

Keturah Reserve exemplifies planning in its design, harmonising the flow of air, light, color, space, texture, and material. Homes feature double volume interior spaces that naturally enhance air flow, complemented by VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow) technology, which reduces energy costs, improves comfort, and maintains consistent temperatures across different zones. The architecture optimises natural daylight without its heat or glare, and as daylight fades, architectural lighting enhances the body’s circadian system, improving mood, comfort, alertness, and sleep quality, the statement concluded.

The post Keturah Reserve infrastructure works completed appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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November 19, 2024 wicsummit0

Dubai-based PlusX Electric is advocating for the use of ‘more eco-friendly, non-super-fast chargers for electric vehicles (EV)’, stating that there are substantial environmental benefits of slower, more energy-efficient charging stations.

The firm notes that while ultra-fast charging stations offer rapid charging, they come with significant energy demands that can strain local grids, and go against the sustainability goals most owners have as a reason for driving EVs.

Although the firm offers a VIP service to collect and drop off EV owners’ cars taking vehicles to super-fast charging stations, it is actively calling for EV users to be mindful of the implications and frequency of using super-fast charges as a charging solution.

Ultra-fast EV chargers, such as Level 3 (DC Fast Charging) stations, are designed to minimise wait times, allowing EV owners to charge their vehicles in 15- to 30-minutes. These chargers deliver between 150- and 350-kilowatts (kW) of power – essentially the energy consumption of a small neighbourhood, the firm highlighted.

Providing context for those energy draw figures, it said: a central air conditioning unit for a large home uses two to five kW; a standard electric water heater consumes around five kW, and a multi-story apartment building with 30 residential units consumes roughly 38kW at peak times.

“A single ultra-fast charger can demand more power than an entire apartment building. This level of energy use puts enormous strain on local energy grids, causing power surges that require expensive infrastructure upgrades and additional carbon-emitting power generation to meet peak demand,” the statement cautioned.

The statement continued, “Non-super-fast chargers, including Level 1 and Level 2 stations, provide a more sustainable approach to EV charging by using much less power. These chargers are ideal for everyday use at home, work, or public parking areas where time is not as much of a constraint. There is also the added benefit of having said charging pods delivered to your car.”

Level 1 chargers, which operate at 120 volts, require only 1.44kW of power. A full charge for an EV with a 50kWh battery takes about 35 hours. Though slower, these chargers use the same power as an ordinary home appliance, such as a microwave oven or refrigerator, and your vehicle can be charged overnight or to 80% capacity which takes less time. Level 2 chargers, using a 240-volt power source, offer a maximum output of 19.2kW, reducing the charging time to approximately 2.5 hours. This is equivalent to running a few air conditioners or electric ovens simultaneously, the firm explained.

Taking this into account, the company is promoting Level 2 chargers with the aim of reducing both the peak power demand and the total energy consumption associated with EV charging. The company said the benefits include:

  • Reduced grid strain: While ultra-fast chargers can cause sudden spikes in electricity demand (200kW or more), Level 2 chargers spread the load more evenly over several hours, requiring only 19.2kW per charging session. This reduces the likelihood of power surges and blackouts, lowering the need for costly grid reinforcements
  • Lower carbon footprint: Slower charging reduces the amount of energy drawn from non-renewable sources during peak times. If powered during off-peak hours, especially with renewable energy, non-super-fast charging can help cities achieve carbon reduction targets more efficiently
  • Economic viability: Ultra-fast charging stations consume about 30,000kWh of electricity per month – three times the energy usage of a typical gas station with a convenience store. In contrast, a well-distributed network of slower chargers can meet EV drivers’ needs with just a fraction of that energy consumption, lowering overall infrastructure costs and reducing energy waste

PlusX Electric encourages EV owners, businesses, and municipalities to make the switch to non-super-fast charging stations as part of their commitment to sustainability. By embracing slower chargers, drivers can reduce their carbon footprint, help stabilise local power grids and contribute to a cleaner environment, the statement said.

We also call upon real estate developers, shopping malls, and corporate campuses to install Level 2 chargers as a standard amenity, providing eco-friendly charging options to employees and customers alike. Offering sustainable charging solutions not only enhances environmental credentials but also positions these organizations as leaders in the transition to green energy, it added.

“Our mission at PlusX Electric goes beyond providing clean energy solutions—we aim to make a positive impact on the world. By enabling energy-efficient charging for all, we are driving both environmental and social progress,” stated Chintan Sareen, CEO at PlusX Electric.

The post PlusX Electric advocates for sustainable charging solutions for EVs appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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November 19, 2024 wicsummit0

Dar Global has concluded the sale of the redeveloped residence No. 149 Old Park Lane in London, in partnership with Leconfield, a London-based property developer specialised in the central London luxury market. The transaction is said to underscore Dar Global’s expertise in executing high-value deals in some of the world’s key real estate markets, further solidifying its position as a leading luxury property developer committed to growth and excellence.

CEO of Dar Global, Ziad El Chaar said: “With a strong foundation steeped in legacy we excel in crafting bespoke luxury homes for today’s global citizen. Propelled by a driving ambition to become one of the top ten real estate developers in the world within the next 10 years, our team of talented visionaries are committed to delivering exceptional living spaces that serve as an investment opportunity as well as offer up a sophisticated lifestyle in some of the world’s most sought-after locations.”

“The sale of No. 149 Old Park Lane, part of Dar Global’s exclusive 1of1 portfolio, represents a significant milestone in the company’s global positioning and its expansion into the European market. Our 1of1 portfolio includes distinctive, independent estates that offer lifetime opportunities for ownership, designed to be passed down through generations,” added El Chaar.

Located on Piccadilly Street overlooking Green Park, No. 149 Old Park Lane retains many classical and Art Nouveau features, with high ceilings, spacious corridors, and grand furnishings adding to its allure. The property boasts three bedrooms with a master bedroom, a formal dining room, and a reception hall with stunning views of Green Park, the statement said.

Dar Global operates across nine markets, comprising the UAE, Saudi, Oman, Qatar, Greece, China, Spain, Maldives, and the UK, with plans for further international expansion. Among its notable projects are the Urban Oasis tower by Missoni and DaVinci tower by Pagani in Dubai, Les Vagues residences by Elie Saab in Doha, SIDRA residences in Bosnia, and the AIDA master development in Oman, featuring a Trump-branded luxury resort and exclusive residences. Recently, Dar Global announced the appointment of Rothschild & Co. to explore opportunities for acquisitions and joint ventures in London and Saudi Arabia, as part of a strategic effort to expand its presence in these key markets.

The post Dar Global completes sale of 149 Old Park Lane appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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November 19, 2024 wicsummit0

Jumeirah Beach Hotel introduced its newly renovated Al Bahar Villas, offering a blend of elegance and luxury within the surroundings of the iconic family destination, said a statement.

Available in one-, two-, and three-bedroom configurations, each of the 19 private villas are said to feature generous living spaces and stylish modern interiors with elegant Arabesque finishes, designed by Sahar Al Yaseer of Dubai-born La Bottega UAE.

“With a name inspired by the Arabic word for Sea, the new Al Bahar Villas are the true embodiment of beachfront luxury and exclusivity. The collection of villas was first introduced with the opening of the hotel in 1997 and has long served as a secluded retreat for generations of guests staying at our hotel. Their new iteration promises to further elevate the experience, where moments of joy become memories to last a lifetime,” said Rene Egle, General Manager of Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

Combining earthy tones and organic textures with large glass doors and high ceilings, the re-imagined villas provide airy, spacious rooms with laid-back, nomadic elegance and a sense of authentic warmth. The villas’ verdant surroundings create a sense of cosy comfort, with private outdoor terraces and plunge pools offering striking views of the iconic Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, the statement outlined.

Each villa will also benefit from a private beach cabana, where guests will be attended to by their personal butlers, adding an extra touch to every family holiday. Guests looking to further elevate their experience can choose from a wide selection of exclusive villa services, such as private BBQs, romantic beach dinners, or in-villa spa treatments, the statement added.

The post Jumeirah Beach Hotel unveils renovated Al Bahar Villas appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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November 18, 2024 wicsummit0

Danube Properties has announced that it has handed over its Gemz residential project five months ahead of schedule. The US $95.2mn project was launched in June 2022 and Danube says that early handovers have become a tradition for its projects.

On 14 November, a ceremony was held in Al Furjan at Gemz by Danube to start the handover of keys to homeowners. The ceremony was attended by Mohamed Al-Bidwawi, CEO of RERA on behalf of His Excellency Eng. Marwan bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Land Department, as well as senior leaders of Danube Group, in addition to industry executives and residents.

“Danube Properties is proud to be a pioneer in a number of initiatives in the Dubai real estate market such as a 1% payment plan, 40-plus amenities and the highest capital appreciation and rental incomes to buyers. We have also set the trend of delivering projects ahead of schedule, a remarkable feat that other industry players also want to emulate,” said Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, the parent company of Danube Properties.

With a built-up area of 530,000sqft, Gemz is developed on a plot of 101,000 sqft. The G+P+14-storeyed project houses 270 apartments, including 24 Studios, 74 one-, 114 two- and 42 three-bedroom apartments, while 16 apartments are duplexes. The project features over 30 amenities that cater to the wide-ranging needs of residents. Gemz also features unique convertible layouts that allow a one bedroom unit to be made into a two bed-room unit, and a two bedroom unit into a three bedroom unit, said the statement.

Buyers who booked and paid their initial deposit on the day of the launch of Gemz had their homes fully furnished by Danube Home – a one-stop solution for all furniture, home décor, furnishing and sanitaryware. The statement added.

He added, “We consider our commitment with utmost sincerity. Delivering projects ahead of time is fundamental to Danube Properties’ principles and values. Handing over projects well ahead of time saves end-users from monthly rental costs, while investors earn extra income by leasing their properties.”

Danube has successfully delivered numerous projects in Dubai, including Jewelz, Wavez, Elz, Lawnz, Bayz, Miraclz, Glamz, Starz, Glitz 1, Glitz 2, Glitz 3, Dreamz, Resortz, Pearlz and Olivz, the statement concluded.

The post Danube handsover Gemz residential project ahead of schedule appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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November 18, 2024 wicsummit0

Emaar Development says it maintained strong momentum during the third quarter of 2024. Property sales rose by 66% to US $13.1bn during the first nine months of 2024, compared to US $7.9bn for the same period in 2023. The success of 50 projects launches across all the masterplans during first nine months of 2024 underscored Emaar’s market leadership and positions the company for sustained future growth, said a statement from the firm.

During the third quarter of 2024, Emaar introduced ‘Lavita’ at The Oasis, its first community of luxury mansions. Set within a waterfront landscape, the collection of 43 six- and seven-bedroom homes is said to blend modern comfort and elegance. Each mansion reflects one of four architectural styles to the unique character of its residents, said Emaar Development. Part of The Oasis, a 100m sqft master-planned community, Lavita integrates wellness centres, boutique shops, and walking trails, with energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials.

In the first nine months of 2024 (January to September), Emaar Development reported revenue of $3.4bn and an EBITDA of $1.6bn, 69% and 35% higher than first nine months of 2023, respectively. With a continued uptrend in sales, Emaar’s sales backlog has reached $22.8bn, 47% higher than December 2023, to be recognised as revenue in the coming years, it said.

Mohamed Alabbar, Founder of Emaar, commented, “Our performance this quarter reflects the confidence and trust that our customers place in Emaar’s vision. By continuing to innovate and stay ahead of market trends, we create experiences that resonate with evolving lifestyles. Our strategy is centred on adding sustainable value for both our customers and shareholders, driving growth that aligns with Dubai’s ambitions.”

With the city’s population nearing 3.8m and continuing to rise, demand for housing, infrastructure, and services is expanding at an unprecedented pace. This growth is also driven by emerging sectors such as technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and education, attracting a diverse community of skilled professionals. Emaar Development’s strong sales in the first nine months of 2024 reflect the region’s ability to accommodate this population surge while sustaining high levels of investment and economic growth.

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Source: MEConstructionNews


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November 18, 2024 wicsummit0

Al Seeb Developers has announced the launch of Royal Regency Suites, a residential development in Dubai’s Business Bay area that aims to establish new benchmarks in both residential quality and investor returns.

The developer said that it has collaborated with industry partners to ensure seamless project execution, delivering quality across construction, design, and management. Every detail of Royal Regency Suites has been curated to reflect Al Seeb Developers’ high standards, with Italian-made entrance doors, fully fitted kitchens with premium appliances, and advanced home automation systems available in select units.

The residential project includes a lobby lounge area offering panoramic views, a café on the ground floor and a fine dining restaurant on the first floor. Health and wellness facilities such as a state-of-the-art gym with an acoustic system, a temperature-controlled swimming pool, a Jacuzzi, and gender-specific steam rooms and saunas will be featured, said a statement from the developer.

In addition, it includes sustainable and convenient features like dedicated EV charging stations, a service lift, and access and intercom systems. It will also have landscaped recreational areas that will enhance residents’ lifestyle with serene outdoor spaces and premium interiors with smart home automation options in select units, bifold doors in three bedroom apartments, and Jacuzzis in balcony layouts.

“Royal Regency Suites is an embodiment of our vision to redefine the standards of luxury living in Dubai. This project not only represents a prime investment opportunity but also aligns with our commitment to delivering exceptional value, design, and sustainability to home buyers. We are confident that Royal Regency Suites will set a new benchmark in the vibrant Dubai real estate market offering an equally attractive product to investors as well as end users,” said J P Kalwani, Founder Chairman & CEO, Al Seeb Developers.

Set for completion on 31 March 2027, Royal Regency Suites will offer investors and residents a blend of luxury, convenience, and return on investment. The project will expand Al Seeb Developers’ footprint within Dubai, in delivering value, investor-centric, quality developments that align with the UAE’s progressive real estate vision, the statement concluded.

The post Al Seeb Developers announces launch of Royal Regency Suites appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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November 15, 2024 wicsummit0

HIVE, Rafal Real Estate Development Company and FIM Partners announced their intent to establish a fund of US $150mn. The fund will be managed by FIM Partners, which will support the development of six to eight new co-living projects in Riyadh, aimed at meeting the rising demand for modern, adaptable living and working spaces. The announcement was made at Cityscape Global Riyadh.

The partnership marks an important milestone in Saudi Arabia’s real estate market evolution under Vision 2030. By focusing on innovative co-living developments, it offers investors a valuable entry point into an underserved, high-growth sector while addressing the Kingdom’s growing demand for flexible and affordable housing solutions, said a statement.

“With our first co-living development in Riyadh already announced earlier this year, we are excited to expand our portfolio alongside FIM Partners and Rafal. HIVE’s modern, flexible living solutions will cater to the evolving needs of urban residents, delivering convenience and community in a forward-thinking environment,” said Bass Ackermann, Founder of HIVE.

Elias Abousamra, CEO of Rafal Real Estate Development Company added, “Riyadh is ready for growth in the co-living sector, and this initiative allows us to scale up developments to meet this demand. We are committed to creating communities that offer a combination of modern living solutions and a strong sense of community, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s long-term vision for the housing market.”

The investment strategy aims to create high-quality living environments with long-term value for investors. By capitalising on the demand for modern and affordable co-living spaces, this partnership is well-positioned to offer attractive returns, helping meet both the Kingdom’s housing needs and investor expectations, the statement explained.

Fares Bou Atme, Director of Real Estate at FIM Partners stated, “Saudi Arabia’s real estate sector is undergoing rapid transformation, with co-living playing an essential role, given the substantial need for such an asset class in the market. This partnership will provide investors early access to a promising segment of the market, ensuring substantial returns as the sector matures.”

The co-living strategy targets Riyadh’s growing population of professionals, expatriates, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs, addressing the rising demand for adaptable, community-oriented living and working solutions. With a diverse and mobile workforce driving the demand for such spaces, this initiative offers a unique opportunity for investors to engage with a high-growth market primed for sustained growth, the statement said.

The post FIM Partners, HIVE, and Rafal Real Estate Development Company to establish $150mn development fund appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews