The post Masdar and PLN NP agree to triple size of ASEAN’s largest floating solar plant appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

AMEA Power has announced the financial close of its US $86mn, 120MW solar PV project in Tunisia.

The solar plant is being implemented by Kairouan Solar Plant, a project company registered in Tunisia and fully owned by AMEA Power, and will be located in Metbassta, Kairouan governorate. The project is being financed by IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, and the African Development Bank (AfDB). Once the project is commissioned, it will be AMEA Power’s first operational asset in the country.

The project was awarded to AMEA Power in December 2019 following an international tender program launched by the Ministry of Industry and SMEs in Tunisia. The Concession Agreement and the Power Purchase Agreement were signed in June 2021 and ratified by the government of Tunisia in May 2022.

“The Government is expressing its firm commitment to successfully develop the 120MW Kairouan PV Solar project, which represents a significant step forward in the country’s energy transition,” said Tunisia’s Head of Government, Ahmed Hachani.

This is the first solar project to reach financial close under the concession regime in Tunisia. The concession regime covers projects over 10MW for solar PV, awarded through a competitive bidding process. The solar project is being built under a Build-Own-Operate (BOO) model and will generate 222GWh of clean energy per year, enough to power more than 43,000 households. The solar plant is expected to be commissioned by mid-2025 and will avoid 117,000 tonnes of CO2 over the course of its life, the statement from AMEA Power noted.

As part of AMEA Power’s ‘Community Investment and Development Program’, it is working closely with the local community on planned initiatives aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

AMEA Power’s Chairman, Hussain Al Nowais said: “We are delighted to reach financial close on this 120MW solar power plant in Tunisia, our first project in the country. This is a significant milestone for AMEA Power and for Tunisia, as it represents the largest solar project fully developed in the country to date. Despite all the challenges that the market has been experiencing since the COVID pandemic, we are proud that we are delivering this project and honoring our commitment to supporting Tunisia’s transition to clean energy. We are grateful for the strong support of our lenders and the Tunisian government in making this project a reality.”

The government of Tunisia said that it aims to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix to 35% by 2030. This is a significant commitment in a country that is highly dependent on fossil fuel-based energy, mostly through imports. The Kairouan project directly supports the reduction of Tunisia’s energy dependence and improves the trade deficit of the country.

“This ambitious, renewable energy project will not only bring more affordable, clean energy to the people of Tunisia, but it will help Tunisia achieve its energy goals and attract more private investments into future green projects. Through the project, we’re proud to build on our partnership with AMEA Power to expand their operations across North Africa, helping address the effects of climate change in the region,” remarked Sérgio Pimenta, IFC’s Vice President for Africa.

Dr Kevin Kariuki, Vice President of Power, Energy, Climate, and Green Growth at the African Development Bank concluded, “We are delighted to reach this milestone, the signing of project agreements, making the first disbursement, and therefore commencement of construction of Tunisia’s first solar Independent Power Producer (IPP) project imminent. This accomplishment is testament to AfDB’s dedication to promoting sustainable energy solutions in Africa. Moreover, the successful collaboration between the Government of Tunisia, AMEA Power, the African Development Bank, SEFA, and the IFC speaks volumes about our collective commitment to helping Tunisia reach its 35% clean energy target by 2030.”

The post AMEA Power achieves financial close on US $86mn solar PV project in Tunisia appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

R.evolution is making its debut in the United Arab Emirates with a new project, “Eywa.”

Described as a next-generation residential building promises to redefine urban living in Dubai, setting new standards for luxury and well-being, claims the developer.

Nestled along the picturesque Dubai Water Canal, Eywa stands as a testament to harmonious living and well-being. It offers a curated selection of 2-to-5-bedroom residences, each boasting views of the Dubai Canal, Downtown Dubai, and the iconic Burj Khalifa.

Eywa is a boutique building with just 48 meticulously designed apartments catering to diverse lifestyles, complemented by two luxurious penthouses.

Open AD is the lead concept and design architect, and Brewer Smith Brewer Group (BSBG) is serving as the executive architect and lead design consultants.

All units are thoughtfully crafted to prioritise the well-being of its community, fostering an environment close to nature and radiating positive energy, according to R.evolution, and each residence features spacious living areas, including family rooms, front-of-house kitchens, and service kitchens, while all bedrooms are equipped with walk-through wardrobes and exquisite en-suite bathrooms,

Taking inspiration from Vastu Shastra, a holistic concept that combines science, art, astronomy, and astrology to enhance wealth, health, prosperity, and happiness, Eywa integrates 1,450 specially selected crystals, gemstones, and geodes into its structure.

This unique approach aims to make Eywa a ‘well-being generator,’ infusing each floor with positive energy while purifying and dispelling negativity. Residents are set to benefit from these well-being effects, including reduced conflict, improved concentration, and the promotion of mental and physical well-being, particularly in children.

Eywa’s architecture draws inspiration from the Banyan tree, representing the tree of life, and China’s renowned quartz sandstone mountain, the Southern Pillar of Heaven. With circular open columns, an organic interweaving of branches, this living building is certainly unlike anything seen before in Dubai.

The building’s façade appears adorned with greenery from every angle, “celebrating the magic and mastery of the tree of life in both form and function”.

Eywa offers a wealth of state-of-the-art amenities. These include an elite spa, open-air and indoor cinema, library, three swimming pools, children’s playgrounds and a playroom, outdoor fireplaces, modern high-end gym, and a yoga room.

Eywa has achieved LEED Platinum and WELL Platinum certifications, affirming its commitment to sustainable development, a healthy environment, and the well-being of its residents. The project is slated for completion by 2026 and promises to serve as a gateway to extraordinary lifestyle experiences in the heart of Dubai.

Alex Zagrebelny, Chairman & CEO of R.evolution, expressed his excitement, saying, “The Eywa residential building is a true testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and sustainable design. Its unique blend of cutting-edge technology and nature-inspired architectural elements will redefine how we perceive urban living. We are excited to unveil this iconic landmark that showcases our vision for the future of sustainable cities.”

Qasim Mansoor, Chief Development and Operations Officer of R.evolution, added, “This marvel of a residential property represents a pivotal moment for our company. It is not just a mere structure but a symbol of our dedication to creating environmentally conscious spaces that seamlessly integrate with their surroundings. The meticulous design and incorporation of sustainable features will not only enhance the quality of life for its occupants but also contribute towards a greener and more harmonious urban landscape.”

Christie’s International Real Estate Dubai has been appointed as the exclusive real estate broker for this unusual project.

The post R.evolution feeling positive about residential project that gets you close to nature appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

KPM Engineering (KPM) has appointed Ramboll’s former head of projects Brian Sweeney as the Director of Projects, a strategic move aimed at bolstering the company’s project management capabilities and engineering service delivery across pivotal sectors and projects in the Middle East.

With his vast experience spanning over two decades in engineering and project management roles, Sweeney, a qualified structural engineer, is set to steer KPM towards new horizons in project coordination and excellence.

In his new capacity, Sweeney will collaborate closely with project teams, clients, and stakeholders, facilitating the seamless execution of regional and international projects while optimizing KPM’s operational efficiency.

Sweeney’s impressive professional background encompasses a diverse array of sectors, including mixed-use, commercial, residential, government, healthcare, transportation, education, and entertainment and leisure. His role as Director of Projects at KPM will see him managing external partnerships and collaborating with design leaders to elevate project coordination and ensure the highest quality standards at every stage of KPM’s projects, from inception to fruition. Importantly, Sweeney’s appointment signifies KPM’s commitment to leveraging digitalization and computational design in engineering, as he spearheads projects that harness innovative and efficient strategies to enhance these capabilities within the company.

Brian Sweeney’s prior leadership roles in the Middle East and the UK have seen him successfully oversee large-scale and intricate projects. Before joining KPM, he held various positions within Ramboll Middle East, where he led a team of over 60 professionals in executing some of the organization’s most ambitious projects in the region.

Expressing his thoughts on his new role, Sweeney said, “KPM is on an exciting trajectory to solidify its standing as a top-tier player in the multidisciplinary engineering industry. I am privileged to be part of this journey and contribute to KPM’s operational goals and continued growth. My aim is to share my knowledge with the entire KPM team, driving excellence in engineering service delivery across our existing and future project portfolio. I will be dedicated to enhancing every facet of the business, ensuring that KPM continues its successful project delivery across all sectors. I eagerly anticipate honing my skills and abilities within a company committed to employee and business growth.”

Kashif Fakih, Director at KPM, lauded Sweeney’s appointment, stating, “Brian’s stellar reputation and extensive industry experience make him a perfect fit for this pivotal role at KPM. I have full confidence in Brian’s ability to oversee complex projects, lead teams efficiently, and cultivate crucial stakeholder relationships that foster valuable partnerships. Brian’s emphasis on streamlining processes for enhanced project delivery and his passion for engineering innovation align seamlessly with KPM’s organizational objectives. As KPM forges ahead on its growth trajectory, I am convinced that Brian will play a pivotal role in propelling the company to new heights.”

Brian Sweeney holds a Meng (Hons) in Civil Engineering and is a Chartered Member: MICE CEng at the Institution of Engineering. His appointment at KPM Engineering marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards engineering excellence and growth.

The post KPM Engineering appoints former ex-Ramboll Brian Sweeney as head of projects`for the Middle East appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

AC3D, a pioneering 3D construction printing company, has officially launched its operations in the United Arab Emirates under the auspices of the Dubai 3D Printing Strategy 2030 and in partnership with Dubai Municipality.

The announcement was made during the opening ceremony of the Middle East Reverse Engineering & Additive Manufacturing Conference & Showcase, ReAM 2023, a premier event running from September 25 to 27, 2023, at the Festival Arena in Dubai.

With a strategic focus on revolutionising low-rise housing, commercial real estate, and infrastructure development, AC3D aims to usher in a more sustainable era of construction. The company has pledged to make construction up to 1.5 times more cost-effective and significantly reduce labor requirements. Furthermore, AC3D intends to expedite construction processes, achieving up to four times faster construction while utilising eco-friendly printing materials.

The 3D construction printing market, projected to reach $2.5 billion by 2025, has seen remarkable growth from $500 million in 2023. Aligning with the ambitious Dubai 3D Printing Strategy 2030, which aims to implement 3D-printed buildings across the Emirates by 25% by 2030, AC3D’s entry into the market signifies a substantial step towards achieving these goals.

Boris Kozlov, Founder & CEO of AC3D, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch, stating, “Our mission to shape a more sustainable future for the construction sector begins here in Dubai. Beyond reducing CO2 emissions and minimizing waste, our vertically integrated technology facilitates energy-efficient homes, enables free-form architectural designs, reduces construction waste, and enhances resilience against natural disasters.”

The next-generation 3D printers, manufactured in the UAE, offer a range of environmental benefits in line with global sustainability objectives, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Currently, the construction industry stands as the world’s leading producer of waste and a significant contributor to the global carbon footprint, with cement production alone responsible for 10% of CO2 emissions.

In addition to sustainability, the economic and humanitarian implications of 3D construction printing are profound. A single 3D printer has the potential to construct over 50 houses annually, a significant stride towards addressing the global housing shortage forecasted to affect 1.6 billion people by 2025, as reported by the World Bank. The housing and construction sectors face pressing challenges with an annual deficit of 12 million homes compounded by a significant shortage of 10 million construction workers.

Dubai achieved a significant regulatory milestone in August 2021 when His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, issued Decree No. (24), governing the application of 3D printing technology in the construction sector. In July 2023, Dubai Municipality granted the first construction license for a private villa using 3D printing technology, further solidifying the city’s commitment to innovation in construction.

AC3D’s expertise extends beyond the manufacturing of cutting-edge building robots, encompassing the development of proprietary 3D printing material blends, the creation of advanced software solutions for streamlined construction processes, and the engineering and 3D printing of entire buildings.

The post AC3D: 3D builder says it can make construction “greener, cheaper and faster” appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Hospitality and residential projects worth $1.9tn are under development in the Middle East, with Saudi Arabia, UAE and Egypt accounting for 90% ($1.7 tn) of the investment, according to new research by global independent real estate consultants, Knight Frank.

The data reveals that KSA is at the top of the region’s project investment table, with $1.2tn of developments in the pipeline, followed by the UAE ($300 bn) and Egypt ($200bn), highlighting the Middle East’s continued commitment to reaching 160 million annual tourists by 2030.

Turab Saleem, Partner and Head of Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure – MENA, at Knight Frank, said: “The Middle East was the first region globally to make a complete business recovery after the pandemic. While much of the world still faces challenges in its return to normality, this region is set to surpass pre-Covid levels in terms of hospitality and tourism-related revenue and employment. The Middle East’s travel and tourism sector witnessed a tremendous growth with a 46.9% increase in its contribution to GDP in 2023, which is the highest of any region in the world. This growth is being driven by a 14.5% increase in the number of jobs supported by the sector, and a more than $107 billion increase in its overall contribution to the GDP. Moreover, the sector has also created 0.9 million new jobs.

“The influx of new hospitality and tourism-related projects in the region is also fostering new trends that add value and efficiency and yield better investment returns. Simplified visa processes, aggressive marketing campaigns, green initiatives, innovation and technology, increased connectivity with new players in the airline sector, personalised guest interaction and a booming holistic health and wellbeing industry are all playing a key role in the growing success of the Middle East’s tourism industry.”

Continuing Turan Saleem’s point, a substantial volume of hospitality-related transactions are currently at an advanced stage of negotiation, with high profile properties expected to change hands in the coming months, according to global real estate consultancy Colliers.

James Wrenn, Executive Director and Head of Capital Markets, MENA, at Colliers, said: “There’s a strong appetite for the hospitality asset class – particularly in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah – from regional and international investors, buoyed by strong operating performance last year and the continued enhancement of the UAE as a top-tier international tourism destination.”

According to Wrenn, by contrast, global sentiment remains subdued as the effects of high inflation, rising interest rates and looming fears of recession has affected the confidence of investors and reduced activity levels.

The post Hotel and residential projects in ME worth $1.9tn appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

Eagle Hills Diyar (EHD), the developer behind the Marassi Al Bahrain project, has awarded the construction contract for the building and development of the Marassi Bay and Marassi Terraces to leading Bahraini construction company, Kooheji Contractors.

The contract builds on the existing partnership between Eagle Hills Diyar and Kooheji Contractors, and will see the contractor manage the construction of the two residential projects in the Marassi Al Bahrain district.

The two developments will feature elegant indoor and outdoor facilities and will provide easy access to the beachfront in addition to Marassi Galleria, one of Bahrain’s premium retail destinations.

Construction has already begun on the two projects; Dr Maher Al Shaer, Managing Director of Eagle Hills Diyar, said: ‘We are delighted to have signed this contract with Kooheji Contractors, a very highly regarded construction company with whom we have a longstanding relationship. With their reputation for professionalism and high-calibre work, we have identified them as our ideal partner for this project. We believe that together, we will successfully bring our vision for Marassi Bay and Marassi Terraces to life.’

Abdulghaffar Al Kooheji, Kooheji Contractors Managing Director, added: “We are extremely pleased to have been awarded the construction contract for both Marassi Bay and Marassi Terraces. As leaders in this sector, we always strive for excellence in all our projects. Through this partnership, we look forward to embodying the exceptional architectural vision of our partner, Eagle Hills Diyar. In these new projects, we aim to uphold the same commitment that Kooheji Contractors has been known for since its inception.”  –

The post Two Marassi projects awarded by Eagle Hills Diyar appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

A recycling facility designed to process construction, demolition and excavation waste has been opened by building material supplier Cemex in Tel Aviv, Israel. The firm said the facility highlights its commitment to circularity and sustainability under the banner of its Regenera business.

The primary suppliers for the Tel Aviv facility are expected to be companies involved in the demolition of existing structures, and those specialising in the transportation of construction waste. Customers for the recycled materials in Israel, include concrete companies, flooring contractors and infrastructure firms.

The facility, acquired earlier this year as part of Cemex’s purchase of a 51% stake in Israel-based Shtang Recycle, will receive up to 500,000 tonnes of building waste annually. The waste material will undergo advanced processing techniques, to be largely repurposed as recycled building materials, the firm explained.

“This new facility in Tel Aviv marks a significant milestone in Cemex’s commitment to circularity, which is of such importance to our global ambition of reaching Net Zero emissions by 2050. We are proud to play a vital role in the growth of our Regenera business, turning building waste into recycled materials for a more sustainable future,” said Cemex’s Sergio Menéndez.

Regenera is active across all of Cemex’s operational regions, including Mexico, the US, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, South-Central America and the Caribbean. It forms a crucial component of Cemex’s broader strategy to achieve sustainable excellence through climate action, circularity, and natural resource management, with the primary objective of becoming a Net Zero CO2 company by 2050, the firm noted.

The post Cemex opens new construction, demolition and excavation waste recycling facility appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews

The first flight to the new Red Sea International Airport (RSI) in Saudi Arabia touched down on the runway on Thursday, marking a huge milestone for The Red Sea project. Departing from King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh, the Saudia flight took under two hours to make the maiden journey.

“We promised to make The Red Sea a place where people from all around the world would come to experience the best of Saudi culture, hospitality, and nature. Now, with the first flight touching down at Red Sea International Airport, and our first resorts receiving bookings, our position on the global tourism map is all but secured,” said John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global (RSG).

The flight marks the start of a new twice-weekly service. The flights return to Riyadh later the same day. Flights depart RUH each Thursday at 10.50am, before departing again to the Kingdom’s capital from RSI at 13:35pm. A second service departs RUH every Saturday at 12.50pm, with the return flight for RUH departing at 15:35pm.

Red Sea International Airport is operated by daa International, which has supported Red Sea Global with design validation and commissioning of RSI since 2020. With the arrival of RSI’s first commercial flight, daa International’s operational responsibility commences.

On the same day as it welcomed its first flight, RSG also revealed the new brand for RSI. Visitors can expect to see the brand expressed across multiple touchpoints, from the airport terminal and staff uniforms to the electric mobility vehicles that will transport passengers from air to land side.

The brand icon is a representation of the Red Sea International Airport’s unique architecture. The iconic shape is inspired by the bird’s eye view of the airport’s exterior. It has been created to express the creativity, novelty and sophistication of the brand in a way that is contemporary and distinct, RSG noted.

As well as its airport, Red Sea Global has made great progress across other infrastructure works to ensure The Red Sea is ready to welcome visitors and meet its promises for responsible development and regenerative tourism. It has constructed the five solar farms needed to enable the first phase of The Red Sea to be off grid and powered solely by sunlight, with more than 760,000 solar panels installed.

The post Maiden flight to Red Sea International Airport marks project milestone appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews