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Saudi Arabia’s Matarat Holding, in collaboration with the National Center for Privatization & PPP (NCP) has invited developers and developer consortiums to submit expressions of interest for the new Taif International Airport project. On completion, the airport will be able to accommodate 2.5m passengers by 2030.

It is being implemented as a public-private partnership (PPP) project under a Build-Transfer-Operate (BTO) model for a period of 30 years, inclusive of the construction period. Located 21 km south-east of the existing Taif Airport, the new airport’s proposed design features a runway with a full-length-parallel taxiway, which connects to a single commercial apron.

The new Taif International Airport will include a commercial passenger terminal building aligned with the airport’s projected capacity and demand, along with facility buildings, utility networks, car parks, and access roads that enable the standard operation of the airport.

The project also involves additional expansions to meet future subsystem requirements. The deadline for submitting the EOIs is 10 January, 2025. According to Matarat, the project is fully in line with Vision 2030’s goals, which aims to enhance the growth of the aviation sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Through the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and the National Aviation Strategy, the Kingdom seeks to strengthen its position among the leading nations as a global logistics hub connecting three continents.

Matarat said the new Taif International Airport is expected to meet the projected increase in demand by 2055, and will be a viable alternative within the region’s multi-airport system. This system includes King Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Airport in Madinah, and Prince Abdulmohsen bin Abdulaziz Airport in Yanbu.

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PIF-owned Soudah Development has appointed AECOM to lead the design for the first phase of Soudah Peaks. The developer explained that the appointment is an important step marking a new phase of progress in the development of Soudah Peaks, the luxury mountain destination on Saudi Arabia’s highest peak.

One of the world’s largest multi-disciplinary consultants, AECOM offers architecture and design services, construction management, engineering and environmental services, and programmes management.

“It is a new important milestone for the Soudah Peaks project and will pave the way for more milestones and achievements. We are committed to ensure that sustainability remains at the core of the project’s design and development process, in addition to the preservation of the region’s natural, cultural and architectural identity,” said CEO of Soudah Development, Saleh Aloraini.

Jason Kroll, CEO of AECOM Arabia added: “We are excited to partner with Soudah Development on the Soudah Peaks project. This initiative showcases our commitment to sustainable and innovative design. Our team will use their integrated expertise to meet the project’s goals, and together, we aim to boost economic growth and enrich local communities.”

The infrastructure design of Soudah Peaks will incorporate environmentally sustainable solutions that preserve the landscape, while also driving economic growth and creating new opportunities for the local communities in Soudah and Rijal Alma.

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MAG Group Holding has announced its portfolio of current and under development projects across its different real estate subsidiaries has reached US $ 11.9bn.

Moafaq Al Gaddah, Founder and Chairman of MAG Group Holding said: “The UAE’s real estate sector is witnessing unprecedented demand, driven by the strategic vision and initiatives of our wise leadership. The government’s ongoing efforts to foster a favorable investment climate have made the UAE a preferred investment destination for global investors.”

“We take pride in our extensive portfolio of developments that cater to diverse audiences, adding value to the already thriving sector. At MAG Group Holding, our mandate is to support the UAE’s growth by creating innovative developments and meeting the evolving needs of both residents and investors.” he added.

MAG Group Holding’s real estate subsidiaries include MAG Lifestyle Development, Keturah, Invest Group Overseas (IGO), MBL, Shoumous, Art of Living Mall and MAG Leasing for warehouses.

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Azizi Developments unveiled Monaco Mansions, a waterside living project in Azizi Venice, Dubai South. Featuring 109 residential units, the development is a blend of sophistication and waterfront living, offering views and architectural elegance.

Monaco Mansions offers eight architectural styles, ranging from royal classic to modern. The residences are designed for those seeking the highest standards of personalisation and luxury. With plot sizes from 10,000 to 20,000sqft, each mansion has six to eight bedrooms and will be available either unfurnished or fully furnished, complete with chandeliers, sculptural staircases, and wall panels.

Set within Azizi Venice, a mixed-use development, the mansions are surrounded by swimmable lagoons, creating an idyllic waterside environment. Azizi Venice will eventually include over 36,000 residential units and more than 100 apartment complexes, making it a landmark destination in Dubai South, said a statement from the developer.

Mirwais Azizi, Founder & Chairman of Azizi Developments said, “The Monaco Mansions launch is a milestone for Dubai’s luxury real estate market. These ultra-luxury mansions are designed for those seeking a truly refined waterfront lifestyle, combining exclusivity with the beauty of nature.”

The four-level mansions feature lagoon- and road-facing exteriors, expansive balconies, direct beach access, and a range of premium amenities, including dual swimming pools, a rooftop terrace, a private cinema, fitness centers, and a Turkish Hammam spa.

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The RAK Energy Summit concluded at Al Hamra International Exhibition & Conference Center in Ras Al Khaimah after bringing together decision-makers, speakers, and experts to engage in the global conversation on sustainability, renewable energy and decarbonisation. The Summit shed light on local and international efforts and practices in approaching the energy transition. Speakers also shared perspectives on the UAE energy transition and shared visions for developing the emirate’s grid.

Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure said, “As the world strives to reach Net Zero by mid-century, developing and adopting the latest sustainability practices and solutions that support the energy transition has become a top priority on the world’s agenda. In its second edition, the RAK Energy Summit is growing to become a world-class platform for integrating sustainability in the energy sector. The Summit is an ideal opportunity for stakeholders to network, form partnerships, and develop sustainable energy solutions that can further cement the UAE’s position as a global driver of the energy transition.”

He added, “In line with the UAE’s ambitious vision for the energy sector, the country works relentlessly toward improving resource efficiency with a focus on leveraging state-of-the-art, smart technologies and investing in research and development to devise innovative solutions to energy and water challenges. Inter-sectoral local and international collaboration is key to achieving future energy objectives.”

Yousif Al Ali, Chief Executive Officer, Etihad Water and Electricity commented, “As we proudly stand as the lead partner for the second edition of RAK Energy Summit, under the patronage of HH Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, we at EtihadWE are committed to leading the transition towards renewable and sustainable energy in the UAE and beyond. This summit provides an exceptional platform to showcase our pivotal projects, such as the high-efficiency Naqa’a RO Plant, Khuraijah Water Distribution Centre, the Distributed Solar System (DSS), and our groundbreaking AMI Smart Meters project. These initiatives, along with others, are at the heart of our strategy to achieve the goals of the climate neutrality strategy and enhance energy efficiency across the GCC, propelling sustainable energy goals into the future.”

Andrea Di Gregorio, Executive Director, Energy Efficiency and Renewables Office, Ras Al Khaimah Municipality, shared perspective on Ras Al Khaimah’s plans for the energy transition during his keynote. He announced significant upgrades to Ras Al Khaimah’s energy and sustainability strategy, aimed at increasing both the scope and impact of interventions. Key announcements included a revised strategy with a broader focus on decarbonisation and environment protection alongside energy efficiency and renewables; and new mandates to promote accelerated intervention for the government in the fields of energy efficiency and green procurement, and for large industries in the field of energy management.

The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure announced the winners of the 8^th edition UAE Energy Management Awards for 2024. Abu Dhabi Distribution Company was awarded first place, while ENOC Corporate Real Estate and Al Futtaim Real Estate were awarded second and third places, respectively. The awards based on an assessment conducted by the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) and recognises implementation of best practices in energy management.

The Summit announced the National Industry Sustainability Initiative, a collaborative initiative between MoEI & MoIAT. Central to this initiative was the launch of the UAE Industry Registry Platform to support the implementation of the Federal Energy Management Regulation in Industrial Facilities. This landmark ministerial initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency in the industrial sector.

Dharmesh Sawant, General Manager, Hisense HVAC added, “Sustainability drives innovation at Hisense HVAC, empowering us to deliver eco-friendly, high-performance solutions aligned with Ras Al Khaimah’s vision. We proudly support RAK Energy Summit and look forward to collaborating with stakeholders to advance sustainability in future projects across the emirate.”

Simon Huber, Managing Director Europe, Innovia Films remarked, “We align with the vision of the RAK Energy Summit, and we are dedicated to raising awareness about sustainable material alternatives that offer a significantly lower carbon footprint and environmental benefits. Promoting awareness and market education is essential to encouraging adoption, and we look forward to showcasing the future of sustainable advertising and graphic films at this year’s summit.”

The programme also included a presentation from Environment Agency Abu Dhabi and RAKGAS, technology showcases from EDF Group and Schneider Electric, along with dynamic panel discussions on fuels and energy carriers of the future and energy-intensive industries. The event concluded with a roundtable session on sustainability in the hospitality sector, led by Advancing Net Zero Volunteering Team.

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Saudi Arabia has announced strong progress in its preparations to host Expo 2030 Riyadh; at the 175th General Assembly of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) – held recently in Paris – it unveiled updates on its master plan for the global event. The Saudi delegation provided comprehensive plans for the event’s theme, visual identity, masterplan, and logistical preparations.

The master plan, a cornerstone of Expo 2030 Riyadh, spans a six million sqm site, with a gated event area of two million sqm. It features five themed zones, over 200 pavilions, and innovative layouts designed for flexibility and sustainability. Three prominent Saudi speakers addressed the assembly, sharing insights into the progress and future plans for the landmark occasion.

Abdulaziz Alghannam, Senior General Director of Expo 2030 Riyadh, highlighted the milestones achieved since Riyadh’s successful bid to host Expo 2030. He emphasised the city’s readiness programme, which incorporates lessons from previous expos, to ensure Riyadh meets the demands of hosting such a monumental event. “Remarkable progress has been made on the journey to 2030. The City Readiness programme has been launched, and we are evaluating Riyadh’s capacity to ensure the necessary investments are in place,” he said.

Ghida Al Shibl, a senior official involved in Expo 2030 Riyadh preparations, focused on governance, theme development, also highlighted plans for Expo 2025 in Osaka. She commented, “Our overarching theme ‘Foresight for Tomorrow’ encapsulates three vital subthemes: Transformational Technology, Sustainable Solutions, and Prosperous People. These subthemes aim to inspire meaningful action and foster global collaboration.”

She also outlined the governance framework ensuring progress toward Expo 2030. The Expo High Committee, chaired by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, prioritises the Expo as a national imperative. Meanwhile, the Public Investment Fund-backed Expo Development Company oversees operations, logistics, and legacy planning.

Updates on the Expo 2030 logo, the establishment of the Riyadh Expo Development Company, and the master plan, were provided by Mazin Al Furaih. The new logo, developed after a comprehensive review of past Expo branding, will be officially announced following a dedicated roll-out plan. He also discussed how the establishment of the Riyadh Expo Development Company was a pivotal step toward ensuring the seamless execution of Expo 2030. The company, supported by a board of directors and a CEO, oversees strategic planning, master plan development, operations, and international participant engagement.

“The new master plan embodies the vision of Expo and its legacy, integrating thematic pavilions, entertainment areas, and sustainable infrastructure. The site is strategically located near key landmarks, creating a distinctive identity in harmony with its surroundings,” noted Al Furaih.

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Hitches & Glitches (H&G) has said that it tracked a significant uptick in demand for specialised cleaning, for the UAE’s growing data centre market.

According to premier global market research and consulting organisation, Blackridge, the data centre market in the UAE is projected to experience a compound annual growth rate of 9.95% over the next five years, creating a market worth US $2.64bn by 2029.

“Data centre equipment is highly sensitive and optimal performance is critical to their success. The equipment consists of switches, routers, hubs, UPS batteries and racks which collect dust & debris like any other object. However, the cleaning process is extremely sophisticated and technical,” said Zohaib Azhar, Director of Operations at Hitches & Glitches.

“Therefore, maintaining the reliability, efficiency, and safety of these high-value assets is of paramount importance. There are international standards for controlled environments, such as the ISO 14644-1 Class 8 standard, which need to be adhered to regularly carried out by a highly trained, certified team of data centre cleaning technicians,” he added.

ASHRAE (American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers) TC 9.9 standards also provide guidelines, which focus on mission-critical facilities such as data centres, to optimise environmental control, protect equipment and ensure reliability.

The guidelines include maintaining clean air by minimising gaseous contaminants and airborne particulates, which can damage sensitive electronic equipment. They suggest regular monitoring and setting limits on particulate levels, with an emphasis on controlling dust and debris, as well as adhering to specific cleanliness levels, the statement outlined.

ASHRAE recommends specific methods for cleaning, such as using anti-static cleaning products and vacuuming with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters to prevent dust from spreading. They also provide guidance on how frequently cleaning should be conducted, depending on the type of equipment and environmental conditions.

The layout and airflow design of a data centre are also critical. ASHRAE guidelines address proper airflow which reduces dust accumulation and ensures contaminants are effectively managed. Cleaning procedures should consider air flow patterns to avoid recirculating dust during routine maintenance.

“These guidelines help data centres maintain a clean and controlled environment, ensuring optimal performance and equipment longevity. Compliance with ASHRAE standards is often required for facilities to maintain high operational reliability and efficiency. Considering the significant level of investment, data centre management must ensure compliance with international standards to mitigate the chance of a serious outage, or significant downtime. To achieve that consistency, it is imperative that cleaning teams are not only fully trained but hold specialist certifications. Due to our expertise, H&G is a preferred by prominent data centre management companies such as SecureTech and ITQAN, amongst others,” Azhar added.

Although not directly related to physical cleaning, ASHRAE standards also stress the importance of maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels to avoid static discharge and corrosion, which can be exacerbated by dust and dirt buildup.

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Developer Barratt London has launched 20 homes designed for wheelchair users, as part of the company’s commitment to accessibility at its Bermondsey Heights development in London.

The apartments were created in partnership with Barratt London’s accessible homes partner AccessAble, a company providing free online Detailed Access Guides to thousands of venues across the UK and Ireland, following feedback and insights, said a statement.

Comprising two- and three-bedroom homes, the inclusive design features that are available as standard include increased door widths and hallways, additional space provision in key rooms, lowered light switches and easy access storage for wheelchairs.

Additionally, certain aspects of each home can be adapted according to individual purchasers’ needs, such as customising kitchens to include features such as the rise and fall counters, which allow the height to be manually adjusted, and the provision of a wet room.

New homes at Bermondsey Heights also benefit from energy saving and sustainability measures, such as efficient kitchen appliances and water taps, low energy lighting, highly insulated building fabric, a carbon-efficient centralised heating system, green and blue roofs, solar panels, and air source heat pumps, which provide 70% of the development’s energy.

Attzaz Rashid, Head of Design at Barratt London said, “Building accessible homes is not merely about designing the residence; it’s about ensuring that individuals with disabilities can navigate an entire development with the same dignity as anyone else living there. At Barratt London, the complete customer journey and accessibility are a cornerstone of our commitment to building inclusive and sustainable communities. 10% of our homes across the capital are constructed with DNA that lends itself to easy adaption for accessibility.”

“We are proud to launch our first accessible homes at Bermondsey Heights, delivered in close partnership with guidance from AccessAble and a range of disability consultants. Housing should be inclusive, and our vision is to use Bermondsey Heights as a blueprint for delivering wheelchair-accessible homes across the capital that go beyond the basics and truly work for Londoners,” he added.

David Livermore, Director at AccessAble, commented, “We have collaborated closely with Barratt London throughout the planning, design, and implementation phases to support the creation of accessible homes at Bermondsey Heights. We support Barratt London’s aim to ensure that these homes meet the needs of wheelchair users and offer a flexible living space that can adapt to individual requirements over time. In the drive of increased housing delivery in London, accessibility must remain a key consideration.”

Bermondsey Heights will comprise 26 stores of residential accommodation with commercial units beneath, with 163 private one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes and 90 affordable homes, including 32 apartments available for discount market sale. The development will feature landscaped courtyard gardens, a roof terrace and a children’s play area. Boasting panoramic views over the London cityscape, the apartments are expected to be completed in the summer of 2025 and are available off-plan.

The area is well connected, with numerous bus services and rail links nearby. The regeneration plans for the wider area include a 30-acre development project seeking to create up to 3,500 homes, 13 new public spaces, a thriving business district with office space, workshops, cafés and restaurants, a creative and digital hub and local retail, as well as a state-of-the-art sports complex and arena, the statement said.

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