Nakheel has marked significant progress in the development of Palm Jebel Ali in 2024, with the project progressing at pace to meet key 2025 milestones.

The development masterplan was approved by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai in May 2023, who said at the time: “Palm Jebel Ali will further strengthen our urban infrastructure and consolidate the city’s emergence as one of the world’s leading metropolises. This new groundbreaking project reflects our strategic development plan centred on raising the quality of life and happiness of residents.”

The Palm Jebel Ali area received further recognition this year when His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, approved the master plan for the 6.6km development of Jebel Ali Beach. The project includes a five kilometre sandy beach, to be developed by Nakheel, as well as a 1.6km-long Mangrove Beach, to be developed by Dubai Municipality.

“At Nakheel we believe in developing dreams, inspired by the vision of our leaders and the hopes of our people. The rapid progress we are currently witnessing on ground at Palm Jebel Ali is testimony to the grand success of our key partnerships and our joint endeavours to ensure we deliver on our commitments,” said Khalid Al Malik, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Holding Real Estate.

After the masterplan was revealed, the first phase of villas and plots on Palm Jebel Ali launched in late 2023 sold out in record time, underscoring the immense appetite in the marketplace for waterfront properties. Several leading international and regional architectural firms have worked to create villas which celebrate the connectivity between the indoor and outdoor lifestyles that residents will enjoy on Palm Jebel Ali, said a statement.

In May of this year, the contact was awarded for the construction of a new road serving the central portion of Palm Jebel Ali and work has already progressed significantly. The contract was awarded to DBB Contracting. When completed, the new public access road will offer a landscaped and convenient path, spanning nearly 6km, leading directly onto Palm Jebel Ali.

In August 2024, Nakheel also awarded an US $220mn contract for marine works on Palm Jebel Ali to Jan De Nul Dredging, and work has already commenced on the dredging, land reclamation, beach profiling and sand placement, directly supporting the construction of villas across all fronds. The first eight fronds of the project are expected to be site-ready by the first quarter of 2025, allowing for the commencement of villa infrastructure and civil works, the statement outlined.

The pace of the development of Palm Jebel Ali has accelerated further during Q3 and Q4 of 2024, with significant contracts awarded to renowned regional and international construction specialists, Nakheel stated.

Three major contracts were awarded in October, for the construction of ultra-luxury villas on the first six fronds of Palm Jebel Ali, scheduled for completion by late 2026. The contracts, awarded to Ginco General Contracting, Shapoorji Pallonji Mideast and United Engineering Construction Company (UNEC), marked a milestone in the ongoing development of this landmark waterfront destination in Dubai. It includes the construction of 723 Beach Collection and Coral Collection villas with exclusive beach frontage across six fronds in addition to the comprehensive development of world-class infrastructure and vibrant public spaces within the respective fronds on Palm Jebel Ali, it added.

To ensure a steady supply of power to the development, Nakheel announced in October their partnership with Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) for the development of two substations on Palm Jebel Ali, valued at $73.5mn. The construction of the two substations, set to feed the power requirements of a major portion of Palm Jebel Ali, is scheduled to be completed in line with the delivery of the villas.

Palm Jebel Ali’s seven islands span 13.4km, feature 16 fronds and over 90km of beachfront, beginning a new growth corridor in the Jebel Ali area, underlining the expansion of the emirate, in line with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, the statement concluded.

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DAMAC Properties has launched DAMAC Islands, which is the developer’s third and largest master community unveiled this year, as well as the sixth in its overall portfolio of master development projects.

DAMAC Islands will offer a range of luxury villas and townhouses, each designed with spacious layouts and breathtaking views. The project will take shape in Dubailand, and aims to offer residents a “unique opportunity to live in a tropical-inspired haven that combines luxury living with the natural paradise of island life”.

This meticulously designed community is slated to be the perfect escape from the bustling city, providing residents with tranquility, rejuvenation, and connection within a peaceful and intimate setting, said a statement from DAMAC.

The project was unveiled at the Coca-Cola Arena on 19 November, and was attended by Hussain Sajwani, Founder and Chairman of DAMAC Properties, Amira Sajwani, MD, DAMAC Properties and senior executives from DAMAC. The developer is said to have unveiled the project after a meticulously planned month-long campaign that included a special teasing campaign, ‘DAMAC Air’, where global audiences had an opportunity to win air tickets to their favourite travel destinations.

“DAMAC Islands represents much more than a development; it is an invitation to experience an entirely new way of living that brings together luxury and wellness. This project embodies our vision of creating spaces where residents can find both escape and connection—an oasis that feels exclusive and warm. DAMAC Islands is a landmark of our commitment to innovation and our belief in Dubai as the ultimate destination for transformative, world-class living,” said Hussain Sajwani, Founder and Chairman of DAMAC Properties.

DAMAC Islands is said to take inspiration from some of the world’s most sought-after island destinations, and will feature six clusters including the Maldives, Bora Bora, Seychelles, Hawaii, Bali, and Fiji. It aims to blend the relaxed island aesthetic with modern splendour, while the community aims to create an oasis where indoor luxury will be harmonised with outdoor paradise, allowing residents to experience both worlds without leaving Dubai, the developer explained in its statement.

‘An Island State of Mind’ sets the tone for the DAMAC Islands experience, with amenities that elevate day-to-day life to a blissful retreat. From serene lagoons and cascading waterfalls to lush jungle rivers and an exclusive Aqua Dome with indoor aquatic activities, every element has been crafted to evoke the serenity of island living. Signature features include a hot springs spa, jungle swings, a bird park, and a mini-golf island, ensuring every resident finds an escape within this exclusive community, it added.

Residents will also be able to enjoy gondola-style paddle boat rides, relax in hammock-laden tours across crystal-clear lagoons, rejuvenate in a hot spring natural spa, or unwind at unique dining venues overlooking turquoise waters. A wedding venue, a tortoise garden, a fresh fruit market and an exclusive Residents Clubhouse will also add to the charm of this sanctuary, making DAMAC Islands a perfect blend of leisure, luxury, and natural beauty, the developer said.

DAMAC Properties has significantly expanded its community development portfolio with the launch of Suncity and Riverside earlier this year, adding to its established communities of DAMAC Hills and DAMAC Hills 2, as well as the upcoming DAMAC Lagoons. Since its founding in 2002, DAMAC has launched over 75 towers and continues its dedicated growth, offering diverse living spaces and investment opportunities for discerning clients, the statement concluded.

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The 2024 edition of the Middle East Consultant Awards (MEC Awards) took place on 14 November at the Ritz Carlton JBR, Dubai.

The event was split into two distinct parts, with the Middle East Consultant (MEC) team first recognising companies that submitted nominations for its ED&I Awards, following which, individuals, companies and projects that were put forward for the annual MEC Awards were put in the spotlight.

Over 140 nominations were submitted, and following two rounds of eliminations, the shortlist and winners were chosen.  The MEC team confirmed that certain categories did not have shortlists in cases where a clear winner was obvious or nominations were not put forward by judges.

The full shortlist and winners (in bold) are as listed below:

ED&I Awards

Ethnicity & Human Capital Champion of the Year

• AECOM

Mentoring Champion of the Year

• TBH

Gender Empowerment Champion of the Year

• AECOM

People of Determination Facilities Champion of the Year

• Dubai Holding Entertainment

Human Capital Manager of the Year

• Compass Project Consulting

Workspace Inclusiveness Champion of the Year

• HKA

ED&I Programme of the Year

• HKA

ED&I Company of the Year

• JLL

Middle East Consultant Awards

AI-Led Design Champion of the Year

• Dewan Architects + Engineers

Interior Design Company of the Year

• KEO Design
• SAY Studio

Architectural Company of the Year

• Boozhgan Architectural Studio
• Dewan Architects + Engineers
• Gensler Middle East
• Memar Architecture
• Mohamed Tabat Architects
• RSP

Cost Consulting Company of the Year

• AESG
• Baker Wilkins & Smith
• C-Quest International
• Compass Project Consulting
• Northcroft Middle East LLC
• Omnium
• Turner & Townsend Middle East

Dispute Resolution Champion of the Year

• HKA
• Secretariat
• Turner & Townsend Middle East

Gender & Ethical Employment Champion of the Year

• AESG
• AtkinsRealis

HR & Wellness Champion of the Year

• AECOM
• AtkinsRealis

Company of the Year

• AESG
• Al Ajmi Engineering Consultants
• AtkinsRealis
• Dewan Architects & Engineers
• Jacobs
• KEO International Consultants
• KPM

MEP Company of the Year

• AESG
• Aji Group
• Al Suweidi Engineering Consultants
• KPM

On-Site Health & Safety Champion of the Year

• JLL
• Ministry of Culture, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Planning and Scheduling Champion of the Year

• TBH

Specialist Consulting Company of the Year

• AESG
• STONEX Consulting
• Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy
• Turner & Townsend Middle East

Structural Engineering Company of the Year

• ASG NV5
• KPM

Project Management Company of the Year

• Aji Group
• Compass Project Consulting
• JLL
• Omnium

Sustainable Consultancy of the Year

• AECOM
• AESG
• AtkinsRealis
• Climatize, a Serco Company
• Cundall
• JLL
• LWK + Partners

Project of the Year – Government & Infrastructure

• AECOM – Terminal A, Zayed International Airport
• Cundall – Greater Muscat Structure Plan
• DesignFit LLC– DIFC Courts

Project of the Year – Hospitality & Tourism

• AECOM – COP 28
• Atkins Realis – Qetaifan Island
• Climatize, a Serco Company
• FSK & Partners – Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat
• JT + Partners – LXR Island Resort by Hilton
• Kalbod Design Studio – Ice Cube Hotel
• KPM – JW Marriott Hotel and Residence
• MZ Architects – Teamlab Phenomena
• RSP – BAPS Hindu Mandir Complex
• Valcarce Architects – GAIA

Project of the Year – Residential & Commercial

• AECOM – Baccharat Hotel & Residences
• Boozhgan Studio – Persica
• Climatize, a Serco Company – DAMAC Lagoons
• Climatize, a Serco Company – The Link, Masdar City
• CSQ Project Development Consultancies – Cloud Spaces, Circle Mall
• Kalbod Design Studio – Zephyr House
• KPM – Azizi Venice
• Gensler Middle East – Ras Al Khaimah Central Premium Commercial Hub
• Gensler Middle East – Riyad Bank
• Godwin Austen Johnson – Serenia Living
• JT + Partners – The Pinnacle Tower
• MZ Architects – Sea La Vie
• Parsons – King Abdullah Financial District – Residential & Commercial Towers
• Trust Engineering Consultancy – One Pearl GV101 Residential Building

Project of the Year: Retail & Public Facilities

• JT + Partners – The Office Headquarters
• Kalbod Design Studio – Dubai Art Museum
• Trust Engineering Consultancy – ECQ11 Corporate Office Building

C-Suite Champion of the Year

• AESG – Saeed Al Abbar
• Al Khoory Solutions LLC – Tabish Abrar
• Climatize, a Serco Company – Engi Jaber
• Dewan Architects + Engineers – Ammar Alassam
• KPM – Kashif Fakih

Under-30 Champion of the Year

• AECOM – Limi Suresh Engoor
• AtkinsRealis – Fathima Mubarak
• Baker Wilkins & Smith – Ahmed Alsaad
• CSQ Project Development Consultants – Laura Davies
• Godwin Austen Johnson – Hannah Alcantara
• JT + Partners – Muhammed Hisham
• Mirage – Hind Abusnana
• Omnium International – Anel Seidakhmetova
• RSP – Alexander Gomez
• Serco – Hiba Ahmed
• Turner & Townsend – Uwais Paderwala

Lifetime Achievement Award

• Joe Tabet, Managing Director, JT + Partners

Multi-Discipline Consultancy of the Year

• AECOM
• Aji Group
• AtkinsRealis
• CSQ Project Development Consultants
• Cundall
• FSK & Partners
• Jacobs
• KEO International Consultants
• KPM
• TGP International
• Zutari Middle East

Read more about the MEC Awards here and the ED&I Summit & Awards here.

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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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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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