Parsons has been awarded two contracts worth US $25mn to perform design engineering for a Middle East transportation customer. With the same customer, Parsons has won more than $90mn in contract awards over the last nine months it said.

Per the terms of the contract, Parsons will lead the design engineering and construction supervision of transportation infrastructure. The scope includes development of mobility solutions and their dedicated corridors, roadway capacity upgrades, and public transit initiatives on critical streets to improve urban mobility and reduce congestion.

Parsons will conduct a strategic study to assess a new corridor to alleviate traffic and optimise traffic. The firm will also manage the planning and design to minimise disruption to existing traffic, while supporting these improvements into the region’s transportation network.

“Projects like these demonstrate the evolving nature of transportation in the Middle East. I am proud that we are leveraging Parsons’ 80 years of global experience, combined with our local knowledge to create bespoke solutions for our transportation clients’ needs that are transforming regional mobility,” said Pierre Santoni, President of Infrastructure EMEA at Parsons.

“As demand rises for sustainable modes of transportation, Parsons is committed to working with its clients to imagine the future of transportation with safe, secure, connected and sustainable solutions,” Santoni noted.

These projects will enhance transportation infrastructure with advanced design practices that are environmentally conscious, Parsons said it is creating mobility solutions that will promote alternative, eco-friendly modes of transport. Parsons’ focus on sustainability through Environmental Impact Assessments and the development of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure aligns with the region’s vision for a greener future.

With a regional team of more than 6,500 employees, Parsons brings urban and destination development, transport infrastructure and smart mobility, industrial and commercial development, asset management, sustainability, and resilience in the region, the statement concluded.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

ALEC Engineering and Contracting has launched its AHLAN program, which aims to encourage greater participation of Saudi nationals in the country’s booming construction sector. According to industry data, the industry is projected to grow at an average Annual Growth Rate (AAGR) of 5.2% from 2025 to 2028.

Modelled after global best practices in employee onboarding, the AHLAN program is heavily tailored to maximise the value it offers to Saudi professionals seeking opportunities in the construction sector, the firm explained.

Over a 30-day period, the program will ensure local recruits have daily one-on-one time with their manager, with a focus on enabling them to not only rapidly ramp up the skills they need for their specific job function, but also gain a comprehensive understanding of the broader business. In parallel, these new employees will be able to avail of dedicated workshops and mentorship sessions conducted by the firm’s world-class Learning & Development (L&D) department, it added.

“Saudi Arabia is presently one of the most exciting construction markets in the world. Projects like Qiddiya, Misk, Diriyah Gate, Sindalah and the ongoing advancement of urban infrastructure in thriving metropolitan hubs like Riyadh are setting new global benchmarks. In doing so, they are providing Saudi nationals the opportunity to play a lead role in developing some of the sector’s most impressive undertakings. As a key growth market for ALEC, and as a leader in the construction field, we believe that it is incumbent on us to grow local talent and empower Saudi nationals to become valuable contributors to the sector,” said Barry Lewis, CEO at ALEC.

ALEC said that the launch of the AHLAN program showcases its deep commitment to aligning with government initiatives such as Vision 2030 and the Nitaqat initiative, as its steadily expands its business across the Kingdom.

The launch of this program follows the 2023 launch of the cadet program, aimed at fostering early-stage recruitment and training of Saudi professionals through collaboration with local educational institutions, the firm highlighted.

“AHLAN is the latest in a long line of successful career enrichment and leadership programs that ALEC has implemented. This program enables us to attract top Saudi talent to the flourishing construction sector and will give them the dedicated support needed to rapidly ramp up their skills and knowledge. I have no doubt that with this, these professionals will be set to make invaluable contributions to the construction industry, both within the Kingdom and beyond its borders,” said Gavin Stone, Group Director- People & Culture at ALEC.

Clare Verrall, ALEC’s Learning and Development Business Partner added, “In the true spirt of the Saudisation initiative, we are seeking to support citizens in establishing meaningful careers in the construction sector. It is an industry that offers diverse and rewarding career journeys – from administration and management positions at offices, to engineering and supervision roles on site. At ALEC, we are committed to accelerating the career progression of Saudi nationals. We are therefore delivering all the support they need to rapidly develop the skills they need to thrive in their daily roles. AHLAN will provide a steady on-ramp for increased participation in the private sector, and our hope is that this framework will be replicated by other organisations aspiring to support the government’s vision.”

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Source: MEConstructionNews

KEO International Consultants (KEO) has launched OPTIMA, an independent facility management (FM) consultancy that aims to change how building and infrastructure assets are managed across the GCC and beyond.

As part of KEO’s Allied Practices, OPTIMA benefits from a rich legacy of excellence, yet it stands as a distinct entity, delivering bespoke FM solutions that are data-driven, customer-centric, and designed to maximise value and longevity, the firm noted in a statement.

The FM consultancy was launched in response to growing demand for specialised facility management services that extend beyond the traditional. Whether it’s maintaining complex infrastructure or maximising the value of real estate portfolios, OPTIMA brings an innovative approach to facilities management, focusing on proactive asset care, operational efficiency, and long-term value creation, said the statement from KEO.

“Our goal with OPTIMA is to deliver transformative FM solutions that help our clients maximise their investments in real estate and infrastructure,” said Donna Sultan, President and CEO of KEO.

As an independent provider, OPTIMA will offer tailored services designed to meet the specific needs of its clients – whether public or private – while drawing on KEO’s 60 years of experience in design, engineering, and project management, KEO explained.

“While we benefit from KEO’s incredible legacy, we are charting our own course as an independent leader in the FM sector, offering a fresh perspective on how assets are managed, maintained, and optimised,” stated Jason Morris, Managing Principal of OPTIMA.

According to KEO, OPTIMA will leverage the latest in FM technology and best practices to offer services that extend asset lifecycles, reduce operational costs, and ensure higher asset availability.

From FM strategic planning and facility condition assessments to digital integration and building services analysis, OPTIMA provides solutions designed to create resilient, efficient, and future-proof facilities. With a focus on sustainability, digitalisation, and practical innovation, OPTIMA’s team of FM specialists works closely with clients to ensure their assets perform optimally throughout their lifecycle, minimising risks and enhancing value, the statement highlighted.

KEO also said that while OPTIMA will operate independently, it will maintain the high standards of quality and client service that KEO is known for. This allows OPTIMA to deliver cutting-edge solutions to clients across many market sectors, while also benefiting from access to KEO’s vast regional network and resources.

“With OPTIMA, we’re creating something new, driven by the same values that have defined KEO but focused solely on the evolving needs of the FM industry. We look forward to working with asset owners to help them navigate the future of facility management, with solutions that are as innovative as they are pragmatic,” concluded Morris.

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Source: MEConstructionNews

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Reef Luxury Developments has officially launched in Dubai, and aims to reshape the emirate’s residential landscape through innovative concepts and community focused projects. The firm said that all its apartments will feature temperature-controlled ‘sunken balconies’, an innovation patented by the developer that allows residents to enjoy year-long outdoor living.

The company said it has acquired a land bank that will bring 5,000 residential units to the emirate, with US $1.36bn in projects set to launch over the next three months. By December 2025, Reef Luxury Developments plans to unveil 30 projects valued at $3.81bn. By focusing on launching unique projects in growing communities it aims to ensure both living experience and high return on investment (ROI) for buyers.

Samer Ambar, CEO, Reef Luxury Developments said, “Aligned with the vision of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai to establish Dubai as a global hub for innovation, we have introduced the first-of- its- kind ‘Sunken Balcony’ technology transitioning the real estate industry globally.”

He added, “Our commitment is to create exceptional properties that not only cater to the needs of today’s residents but also anticipate the evolving demands of the future. We are excited to lead the way in shaping vibrant communities that will enrich the quality of life for all.”

Reef Development is dedicated to making luxury living accessible. Its properties will be designed with modern amenities that cater to contemporary lifestyles, featuring green spaces, smart technology, energy efficient buildings and communal spaces which encourage social interaction.

To enhance its capabilities, Reef Luxury Developments has invested in research & development to lead the real estate industry with innovation and provide more value to its customers by focusing on technology and design.

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Source: MEConstructionNews