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March 16, 2026 wicsummit0

Farhad Azizi, Group CEO of Azizi Group said that despite the current geopolitical situation, over US $100mn in property deals are being signed every day.

Azizi also said work on 200 buildings is continuing, and he expects demand for property to remain strong.

“We have almost 200 buildings under construction, and another 120-130 are in the design stage. All of those projects are progoressing as normal, and the demand is there. We’re not building homes for ourselves. We expect the demand to continue. Obviously, there are cycles for any industry in any mature market. Now, we’re at the peak, and it will continue to be so,” he said in a recent interview with Khaleej Times.

Speaking about the company’s month-long sales event in Meydan Hotel, during Ramadan, Azizi added, “The turnout at our sales event was a bit low in the first 2-days when the conflict started, but then people came back, and sales are happening. Banks are offering mortgages to end-users and investors,” he added.

On the first day of the event, the developer sold over $101mn worth of properties. On average, it is selling $41mn to $51mn in units every day. “In the last 20 days of Ramadan, we have had approximately $500mn  worth of sales. For us, it’s business as usual,” he noted. He also added that up to 2,000 people turned up for the event on some days.

In addition to ongoing projects, the developer also announced plans to develop 151 hotels, including 100 4-star hotels, 50 5-star hotels and a 7-star hotel, with 90% of the portfolio based in Dubai. On completion, this will add 60,000 room keys and more than 75,000 jobs in the hospitality sector of the emirate.

He reiterated that there are no delays on projects in the region and the supply of construction material, MEP materials and elevators is arriving as expected. He explained, “There has not been a hiccup despite the regional geopolitical situation, which shows the resilience of the city, and that is boosting the demand.”

Azizi thinks the ongoing regional concerns are a “temporary challenge” and Dubai and the UAE will quickly get over it. Hailing from Afghanistan, Azizi has made the UAE his home for the last 30 years.

“We have 4 generations living in Dubai. We come from Afghanistan, a war-torn country. For us not to be discriminated against and to be accepted with an open heart, this means a lot to us. We started with a very humble beginning, and today we have a multi-billion dollar business, with 45,000 people working for our company. We’re very proud of this city and country,” he stated.

He added that the company has given US $1bn in donations to different charitable causes in the country. “We make money in the city, and we have to give back to society,” he concluded.

The post Azizi signs over US $100mn in property sales every day appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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March 16, 2026 wicsummit0

Umm Al Qura for Development and Construction Company has extended 2 reservation agreements with Mousa Abdulaziz Al Mousa & Sons Real Estate Holding Group for the sale of 2-plots within its premium Masar Destination in Makkah.

The Masar Destination, billed as a landmark urban project being developed by Umm Al Qura, offers a diverse range of amenities, including hospitality, commercial, retail, and residential spaces, as well as cultural centers. Spanning over 1.2m sqm, it serves as an integrated gateway directly leading to the Grand Mosque, said a statement.

The extension of the reservation agreements was made due to procedural reasons related to the 2-plots of land, as stated by Umm Al Qura for Development and Construction Company in its filing to Saudi bourse Tadawul.

The agreement was reached in collaboration with Al Inma First Development Company, the special purpose vehicle for the Al Inma Makkah Development Fund I, a unit of Umm Al Qura.

This transaction is closely linked to the development of hospitality units within Masar development. The reservation agreements have been extended until 9 April, provided that the final sale agreements will be executed within the validity period of the reservation agreements.

The post Umm Al Qura extends Reservation Agreements for the sale of plots in Masar Destination appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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March 16, 2026 wicsummit0

First Avenue has awarded a contract to Jadwa Al Shorfa Real Estate Fund for a mixed-use project in Riyadh, featuring a mix of commercial, residential and office units along with key amenities.

Located at the intersection of the Eastern Ring-Makkah Khuris Road, the project, Capital Avenue – Al Rayyan, will come up on a 38,950sqm area.

The agreement represents a continuation of the company’s expansion strategy, which focuses on investing in promising real estate opportunities located in highly attractive and strategic locations, said First Avenue for Real Estate Development Company in its filing to Saudi bourse Tadawul.

The project scope includes preparation of detailed architectural designs, supervision of construction works and marketing of the project.

For the project, the development fee amounts to 15% of the actual project cost, estimated at US $49.2mn.

The building permit has been issued for the project, which will have a total built-up area of 110,738sqm.

The project will be completed within 30 months, the statement noted.

The post First Avenue signs Jadwa Al Shorfa for mixed-use project in Riyadh appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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March 13, 2026 wicsummit0

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense intercepted three drones heading towards the Shaybah oil field yesterday, according to a post by the Saudi Press Agency on social media platform X.

The attack during the second week of conflict in the war between Iran, Israel, and the United States is the latest targeting critical energy infrastructure in GCC countries.

The facility was previously targeted by two drones, both of which were destroyed. Saudi Arabia said that the facility is crucial to the country’s oil production.

Earlier in the week, the Abu Dhabi Media Office said in a post on X on 10 March that a drone attack caused a fire to break out at a facility in the Ruwais Industrial Complex in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. No injuries were reported.

The Ruwais complex has a refining capacity of about 922,000 barrels of crude oil and condensate per day, making it one of the largest oil refineries in the Middle East, and amongst the largest single-site refineries in the world. Ruwais is located about 240km west of Abu Dhabi city in the Al Dhafra region.

On 9 March, the Bahrain News Agency noted that Bapco Energies declared a force majeure situation on the group’s operations, as operations were disrupted due to an attack on its refinery complex. The attack prompted the group to issue a formal force majeure notice, and said the declaration relates specifically to operational disruptions linked to the conflict and the recent attack on the refinery complex, which forms a key part of Bahrain’s energy infrastructure.

The post GCC energy infrastructure sees continuing attacks in second week of regional conflict appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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March 13, 2026 wicsummit0

Abanos has secured a contract to deliver the fit-out and joinery works for Palace Residences Creek Blue, a residential development by Emaar located within Dubai Creek Harbour.

With a total built-up area of 98,243sqm, Palace Residences Creek Blue is a waterfront property, set within a modern, stylish and pedestrian-friendly neighbourhood, that aligns with Dubai’s sustainable urban character, said a statement from Abanos.

The development will feature a collection of 2- and 3-bedroom apartments, thoughtfully crafted to blend contemporary aesthetics with expansive outdoor spaces, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience, it stated.

The project is being developed by Emaar/Dubai Creek Harbour Development and designed by Mirage/SSH. Contracting works are being delivered by Engineering Contracting Company.

Abanos said the project scope includes the fabrication and installation of wooden doors, wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, vanity units and other miscellaneous joinery items.

“Each of the residences is being designed as a refined retreat, showcasing quality finishes, contemporary kitchens, luxurious bathrooms, and spacious living areas complemented by expansive windows that invite abundant natural light and frame stunning views,” said a spokesman.

“Private balconies extend the living space outward, enhancing the connection between elegant interiors and the surrounding waterfront landscape,” he added.

The post Abanos secures fit-out contract for Palace Residences Creek Blue by Emaar appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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March 13, 2026 wicsummit0

Developer Aldar has allocated US $27.23mn to the ‘Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans’ initiative, a collaborative effort between the Endowments and Minors’ Funds Authority – Awqaf Abu Dhabi.

This initiative aims to provide sustainable and long-term support to enhance the well-being and future prospects of orphans throughout the UAE. It also builds upon the UAE’s longstanding humanitarian approach, which has established the country as a force for charity and solidarity, guided by the wise directives of its leadership.

The announcement coincides with the UAE’s Year of Family, a celebration of the significance of strengthening family cohesion and reinforcing the values that form the foundation of resilient societies. Aligned with the values of the Year of Family, this initiative reaffirms Awqaf Abu Dhabi’s commitment to aligning its initiatives with national priorities, serving the best interests of society.

Through a well-structured institutional framework, contributions to the endowment are transformed into investment assets, ensuring that the returns are allocated to support orphans’ education, healthcare, and basic living needs. This approach guarantees the long-term sustainability of the support provided. Aldar’s contribution exemplifies the company’s dedication to creating positive and enduring impacts in the communities it serves, said a statement.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Aldar said, “In line with UAE’s Year of Family, The ‘Mother of the National Endowment for Orphans’ reflects the principles that guide Abu Dhabi’s continued development and the UAE’s enduring values of compassion, responsibility, and commitment to social cohesion. As part of this national journey, Aldar carries a responsibility to strengthen our society. The endowment reflects the importance of collective action in shaping a future defined by shared progress.”

Talal Al Dhiyebi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Aldar added, “At Aldar, we believe that sustainable progress must be reflected in the way we support our communities. The ‘Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans’ reflects the UAE’s deeply rooted values of solidarity and social responsibility. Through this partnership, we are supporting the long-term approach to providing essential care and opportunity for young people, aligned with national priorities and our shared ambition to foster an inclusive and resilient society.”

The announcement coincides with Zayed Humanitarian Day, which honours the generosity and humanitarianism established by the UAEs Founding Father. The contribution was announced at the Zayed National Museum.

This initiative embodies the values and principles championed by Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, Chairwoman of the General Women’s Union, President of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, and Supreme Chairwoman of the Family Development Foundation, the statement concluded.

The post Aldar commits to Mother of the Nation Endowment for Orphans appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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March 13, 2026 wicsummit0

Developer Arada has awarded two contracts for the next phase of Sharjah’s Aljada megaproject, which aims to build 2,210 homes. These contracts, valued at US $555mn, cover the main construction activities across 14 residential blocks.

China Tiesiju Civil Engineering Group, a subsidiary of China Railway Group, will construct the 5 Nesba buildings on East Boulevard and the 5 Safa buildings on West Boulevard. Both contracts are expected to be completed within 26 months, with all blocks scheduled for delivery in the second quarter of 2028, ahead of the completion of one of the community’s key attractions, Madar Mall.

The contract for The Gate blocks 3-6, located at the southern entrances of the community, has been awarded to Kuwait-headquartered Mohammed Abdulmohsin Al Kharafi and Sons, said to be one of the most experienced contractors in the region. The company has also collaborated with Arada on other projects in Aljada, Masaar, and Nasma Residences.

Each construction contract involves the delivery of modern apartment blocks, featuring units ranging from 1 bedroom residences to 4 bedroom family spaces. Smart home technologies will be integrated into all buildings as standard features.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada said, “These large-scale contracts reflect our confidence in the local market and our determination to continue to aggressively deliver on our projects across the UAE. They mark a major milestone in the ongoing development of Aljada, and reflect the extraordinary buyer interest we continue to see in this community. These new buildings will be delivered alongside major upcoming components of Aljada, including Madar Mall and the Arada Central Business District, reinforcing our commitment to creating a transformational, lifestyle-led destination.”

The Nesba and Safa communities are characterised by contemporary, light-filled architecture and are situated adjacent to Aljada’s iconic sports park, currently under construction and slated to open by the end of 2026. This 400,000sqft landscaped complex will boast a full-size football pitch, five-a-side fields, and courts for padel, basketball, volleyball, squash, and badminton. Additionally, there will be cycling and jogging tracks and adventure play areas for children.

The Gate 3-4 is a 2-building complex located at the main entrance of East Boulevard, directly opposite SABIS International School – Aljada. The Gate 5-6, another 2 building cluster, is positioned at the West Boulevard entrance, near the northwest corner of the community and directly opposite Raffles World Academy Aljada, which is currently under construction and expected to open for the 2026-2027 academic year.

The post Arada awards contracts to build apartment blocks in Aljada appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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March 12, 2026 wicsummit0

Azizi Developments has signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hyprlift, a US-based innovator in advanced vertical transportation systems. The purpose of this agreement is to explore the potential application of ropeless elevator systems in selected Dubai developments.

The 2 parties will collaborate on technical studies, integration planning, and feasibility assessments. These assessments will evaluate the end-to-end requirements of the project, covering various aspects such as design, installation, testing, commissioning, operations, and ongoing maintenance.

Hyprlift, headquartered in California, specialises in the development of self-propelled, modular, ropeless elevator systems. These systems offer an alternative approach to vertical transportation, providing greater architectural flexibility, multi-directional movement, increased transport capacity, and more efficient utilisation of building cores.

Group CEO, Farhad Azizi said, “Innovation is central to our approach. Through this collaboration with Hyprlift, we are exploring elevator systems that could improve performance and comfort, while unlocking new possibilities in building design. This framework supports our focus on infrastructure-led development and long-term value.”

Hyprlift Founder and CEO James Hutchinson added, “The MoU reflects a shared ambition to rethink vertical mobility and place advanced technology at the heart of modern buildings. Azizi Developments’ interest in our self-propelled, ropeless elevator systems signals a growing recognition that the future of intelligent buildings depends on reimagining how people move within them.”

Azizi said it currently has around 150,000 units under construction, valued at tens of billions of dollars.

The post Azizi seals partnership with Hyprlift appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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March 12, 2026 wicsummit0

Dubai’s RTA has inaugurated 2 bridges as part of the Oud Maitha and Al Asayel Streets Development Project, which forms part of Sheikh Rashid Corridor Development Project. The project contributes to linking Al Asayel Street with Al Khail Road via Al Wasl Club Street.

The first bridge serves traffic from Al Asayel Street towards Al Wasl Club Street, while the second bridge carries traffic from Al Asayel Street to Al Khail Road towards Business Bay Crossing, the RTA said.

The RTA announced that 72% of the overall project has been completed, and 70% of the tunnel construction works have also been completed. The tunnel will serve traffic from Dubai–Al Ain Road towards the Oud Maitha service road. Works are currently underway to complete additional road expansions and bridge structures, which are expected to open in the third quarter of this year.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), said that the development project is being implemented under the directives of the leadership to complement the Sheikh Rashid Corridor Development and accommodate the emirate’s ongoing urban expansion and population growth.

The project is among the key road infrastructure developments, encompassing the upgrade of 4 major intersections, including the construction of bridges and 2 tunnels extending 4.3km, in addition to roads extending 14km.

“The project serves several key service facilities, residential communities, and development zones, most notably Za’abeel, Al Jaddaf, Oud Maitha, and Umm Hurair, in addition to major destinations such as Latifa Hospital and Al Wasl Club. The population of the areas served by the project is projected to exceed 420,000 residents by 2030,” Al Tayer added.

The project will increase the traffic-carrying capacity of Oud Maitha Street from 10,400 vehicles per hour in both directions to 15,600 vehicles per hour, representing an increase of 50%. It will also reduce average journey time from 20 minutes to 5 minutes, reflecting an improvement of 75%.

The post RTA inaugrates two new bridges appeared first on Middle East Construction News.

Source: MEConstructionNews


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March 12, 2026 wicsummit0

The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) has announced that operations remain uninterrupted despite current regional developments. The company said it has activated its protocols and is collaborating closely with the relevant authorities to safeguard its people, assets, and operations.

Business units are conducting a product-by-product and transaction-by-transaction assessment of the situation, taking into account the ongoing disruption impacting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. ADNOC continues to utilise export capacity that bypasses the strait and its international storage facilities, thereby ensuring the continuity of supply to global markets, the energy company said.

ADNOC’s sales and trading teams are proactively reaching out to customers whose shipment schedules may be affected, the firm said it values its commercial partnerships and will continue to provide the latest information directly to them.

The company said it is carefully managing offshore production levels to meet storage requirements, while ensuring the safety of its people, assets, and facilities. This approach maintains operational flexibility and allows the company to resume normal operations without significant delays.

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Source: MEConstructionNews