Sobha Realty is planning to hand over 6,819 units across Dubai this year, representing a total sales value of US $5.8bn. The handover pipeline represents the company’s largest annual delivery to date, with the value of sales surpassing the combined total of past deliveries, the developer said.

The handovers span some of Sobha Realty’s most prominent developments, including Sobha Hartland, Sobha Hartland II, Sobha Reserve, Sobha One and Verde by Sobha, reaffirming its commitment to delivering exceptional homes with uncompromising standards of quality, craftsmanship and timely execution.

The announcement comes as Sobha Group celebrates its 50th anniversary, marking 5-decades of craftsmanship, innovation and a relentless pursuit of quality, a statement from the developer outlined.

On the announcement, Francis Alfred, Managing Director of Sobha Realty said, “Delivering over 6,000 units in a single year is a testament to Sobha Realty’s unwavering commitment to excellence, precision and customer satisfaction.”

“Our unique Backward Integration model enables us to maintain complete control over every stage of the development process, from design and engineering to construction and finishing, ensuring the highest standards of quality and efficiency across our communities,” stated Alfred.

This achievement further strengthens Sobha Realty’s reputation as one of Dubai’s most trusted developers, with a proven track record of delivering projects on schedule and creating communities that combine architectural excellence, thoughtful design and long-term value for residents and investors.

“As the UAE continues to evolve as one of the world’s leading destinations for living, investment and innovation, we remain focused on creating exceptional developments that deliver lasting value and redefine luxury living,” he added.

Central to Sobha Realty’s delivery capabilities is its pioneering Backward Integration model, which has been a defining pillar of the company’s success for decades. Unlike traditional development models, Sobha Realty manages key aspects of the entire development lifecycle in-house, including design, architecture, engineering, construction, interiors, facade works, glazing, joinery, furniture manufacturing and quality control, the statement said.

This integrated approach provides the company with greater control over execution timelines, craftsmanship and consistency, allowing Sobha Realty to uphold its philosophy of ‘The Art of Detail’ and deliver homes that reflect exceptional attention to quality at every stage, it added.

The 2026 handover milestone builds on Sobha Realty’s record performance in 2025, when the company achieved US $8.16mn in sales, representing 30% year-on-year growth. The performance was driven by resilient demand for its luxury developments and reinforced the company’s position as one of the UAE’s fastest-growing real estate developers, supported by a strong revenue backlog and long-term growth outlook, it stated.

Looking ahead, Sobha Realty will continue to expand its development portfolio through a pipeline of 16 UAE masterplans, including Sobha Sanctuary, a landmark US $13.61bn master development in Dubai, and Sobha City, a US $10.89bn nature-inspired community that marks the company’s entry into the Abu Dhabi market, it added.

Source: ME Construction News

A partnership has been announced between AtkinsRéalis and ALEC to deliver the Sphere Abu Dhabi. Billed as a landmark destination, it will combine cutting-edge immersive technologies, advanced engineering, and world-class design at unprecedented scale, said a statement from AtkinsRéalis.

Located on Yas Island and scheduled to open in 2029, the Sphere is expected to be a category-defining entertainment venue, featuring a fully programmable LED exosphere and a wraparound interior display capable of delivering 16K-resolution visuals, complemented by advanced beamforming audio technology that can direct sound to individual seats. The original Sphere in Las Vegas became the highest-grossing arena in the world within its first year of operation, redefining audience expectations for live entertainment, the statement explained.

AtkinsRéalis said that delivering an experience of this scale and technical sophistication demands exceptional design, engineering and construction capabilities. It added that the project brings together two organisations with deep and complementary expertise across complex entertainment, cultural and large-scale infrastructure projects worldwide.

Both companies bring extensive experience in delivering technically complex destinations across the region, including work on Qiddiya City, Saudi Arabia’s flagship entertainment giga-project, where AtkinsRéalis is serving as design consultant and ALEC is delivering construction works across several landmark venues. This experience provides both organisations with first-hand insight into the technical and logistical demands of next-generation entertainment infrastructure at scale, it added.

“Sphere Abu Dhabi is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a completely new kind of immersive destination for the Middle East. Together with ALEC, we are integrating cutting-edge design, advanced engineering, and immersive technologies to deliver a venue that will redefine what entertainment means globally,” said Peter Willmott, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, AtkinsRéalis.

Sean McQue, Managing Director of ALEC Construction added, “Sphere Abu Dhabi is one of the most technically demanding and culturally significant projects we have undertaken, and it demands exactly the kind of integrated, collaborative delivery model that our partnership with AtkinsRéalis enables. Their design leadership combined with our construction expertise and deep regional presence gives this project the right foundation to deliver to the global benchmark this venue deserves.”

AtkinsRéalis said that the project is being delivered under a Design and Build framework, with both organisations operating in clearly defined and complementary roles.

AtkinsRéalis has been appointed lead multidisciplinary design and supervision consultant, responsible for overall design coordination across architecture, structural engineering and specialist immersive technologies. ALEC Engineering and Contracting LLC has been appointed by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi to translate that vision into a fully realised destination, overseeing procurement, construction delivery and project completion, the statement outlined.

The Sphere Abu Dhabi is being developed by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi as part of the emirate’s broader strategy to further establish Abu Dhabi as a global destination for culture, entertainment, and innovation. The venue will introduce an entirely new dimension of immersive storytelling to the region, redefining how audiences engage with live and digital experiences at scale.

Source: ME Construction News

Saudi Arabia’s Knowledge Economic City has announced the sale of 17,624.85sqm plots of land within its premises in Madinah to 2-key entities – Al Bawaba International Investment and Olu Real Estate Company – for US $60mn.

The duo will be using these plots (C06-6 and C06-3) located within the Knowledge Economic City masterplan in Madinah for the development of a mixed-use project, said KEC in its filing to Saudi bourse Tadawul.

As per the deal, it will be set up through a private real estate investment fund to be jointly owned by Al Bawaba and Olu Real Estate.

This transaction is part of Knowledge Economic City’s strategy to maximise the value of its 6.8m sqm land portfolio through direct development, partnerships with specialised investors and developers, or investment fund structures, thereby accelerating project development and enhancing capital efficiency.

The transaction represents one of the development models adopted by the company to unlock the value of its assets through collaboration with specialised investment firms and financial institutions, supporting the attraction of high-quality investments and promoting urban development within Knowledge Economic City, the statement outlined.

The book value of the land plots in the company’s records is US $5.86mn, it stated.

According to KEC, the deal is aimed at enhancing its liquidity, boosting its financial position, enabling the reinvestment of capital into its current and future strategic projects, and accelerating the development of one of the strategic land plots within Knowledge Economic City. The transaction is expected to generate a gross profit of approximately US $41mn before deducting any transaction-related expenses, fees, or obligations.

On the financial impact, KEC said it will be recognised in the company’s financial statements in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) upon satisfaction of the applicable accounting recognition criteria and completion of the title transfer procedures.

The proceeds of the asset sale will be used to enhance the company’s liquidity and strengthen its financial position as well as for redeployment of capital into its current strategic projects to support sustainable growth and maximise shareholder value.

Source: ME Construction News

Source: ME Construction News

Halliburton has secured a multi-year contract from Saudi oil company Aramco, which involves delivering integrated stimulation and completion services for unconventional gas development in the Kingdom.

The contract forms part of a wider multibillion-dollar agreement linked to one of the largest unconventional gas development initiatives in the world. Halliburton’s portfolio supports Aramco’s unconventional program. The US energy group provides a comprehensive suite of drilling and completion solutions across various unconventional plays in the Kingdom, said a statement.

Halliburton’s integrated service model is specifically designed to support high-intensity development programs. Its primary objective is to enhance operational efficiency, ensure predictable workflows, and guarantee reliable execution. This collaboration aligns with Halliburton’s broader regional efforts to develop integrated unconventional development programs, it added.

Rami Yassine, President, Eastern Hemisphere, Halliburton said, “Under the programme, we will deploy intelligent automation solutions for fracturing to optimise performance in real time and support disciplined implementation across multi-well campaigns. These technologies support digital integration across operations while advancing efficiency and operational reliability.”

“This award highlights our long-standing collaboration with Aramco and builds on more than 80 years in the Kingdom, while advancing unconventional gas development. Beginning in the third quarter of 2026, Halliburton will deploy the Kingdom’s first fully integrated intelligent fracturing platform through Octiv Auto Frac and Sensori fracturing monitoring services to contribute to asset value for one of the world’s largest unconventional fields,” he added.

Halliburton announced the development activities in the Jafurah Basin were already underway. To support this initiative, the US company intends to enhance its investment in local manufacturing, improve its supply chain, and expand workforce development programs within the Kingdom. These efforts are aimed at scaling operations and maintaining performance as unconventional activities gain momentum.

Source: ME Construction News

Milano by Danube has launched its new B2B showroom in Deira, in Dubai. The move is said to further strengthen its presence in one of the UAE’s most dynamic commercial districts.

Marking the brand’s 4^th showroom in Deira, the expansion reinforces Milano’s commitment to serving the region’s thriving export, wholesale and retail markets, while positioning the company to capitalise on the anticipated recovery in global trade activity, said a statement from the firm.

Recognised as the heart of Dubai’s traditional trading ecosystem, Deira has long been a preferred sourcing destination for buyers from across the CIS region, East and West Africa, the Middle East, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Mauritius, Fiji and several other international markets. As one of the world’s leading port and free trade hubs, Dubai continues to attract wholesalers, exporters, traders and project buyers seeking reliable sourcing partners, with Deira remaining at the centre of this activity, it added.

“Deira is not just a market for us; it is where my journey began. This is where I learned the fundamentals of trade: trust, relationships, hard work, and speed. In many ways, this journey feels deeply personal. I started Milano from Deira, and coming back to launch yet another showroom here feels truly surreal. I believe the export market is poised for significant growth over the next six months, and this is the right time to strengthen our presence, invest strategically, and prepare for the opportunities ahead,” said Anis Sajan, Vice Chairman of Danube Group.

The firm said that recent geopolitical developments led to a temporary moderation in trading activity across key hubs such as Deira; however, market indicators now point towards a steady return of demand, renewed buyer movement, and strengthening business confidence.

The launch of Milano by Danube’s new B2B showroom comes at this pivotal juncture, reflecting the brand’s confidence in Deira’s resilience and Dubai’s continued position as a global trading gateway, the statement confirmed.

Sahil Sajan, Director at Milano added, “The new showroom has been designed as a one-stop sourcing destination for wholesalers, exporters and retail customers. Our diverse product portfolio across sanitaryware, hardware, electricals, chandeliers and tiles allows customers to source multiple categories under one roof. Combined with our strong inventory, competitive pricing and efficient supply chain, we are able to offer greater convenience and flexibility to our customers while strengthening Milano’s position as a preferred sourcing partner for businesses across global markets.”

The statement outlined that Milano has consistently adopted a long-term growth approach, continuing to invest even during periods of market uncertainty. The company recently expanded its retail footprint with the launch of its Maleha showroom in Sharjah and has now further strengthened its presence in Deira by securing a prime location that supports its long-term vision for export-led growth. Beyond expanding its own footprint, this launch is expected to boost confidence among traders in the Deira market and encourage more businesses to expand and invest in the area.

Milano’s integrated supply chain further differentiates the brand within the market. With warehousing facilities in Jebel Ali, the company maintains substantial inventory while also enabling customers to source mixed product categories, the statement noted.

“Despite geopolitical tensions and rising freight costs, we remained confident that demand would remain resilient and that customers with genuine requirements would absorb the additional cost. Therefore, we continued our shipments without interruption and ensured that none of our containers were sent back to their source. This decision is now contributing to our growth,” remarked Sahil Sajan.

Looking ahead, Milano expects to achieve a further 20% growth over the next 6-months as export activity gains momentum, reinforcing its commitment to supporting Dubai’s position as one of the world’s leading global trading gateways, the statement concluded.

Source: ME Construction News

DAMAC Properties has launched the 6^th and final tower of Chelsea Residences by DAMAC, following the “exceptional sell-out performance of the first five towers”. Developed in partnership with Chelsea Football Club, the landmark project is said to have seen strong demand from investors and end-users, reinforcing the appeal of its waterfront location, branded residential proposition and lifestyle-led design.

The launch of the final tower presents the last opportunity to own an apartment within the world’s first football-branded residence, said the UAE-based developer.

“Chelsea Residences by DAMAC brings together an iconic global football brand, a prime waterfront setting and DAMAC’s signature approach to luxury living. With the launch of the final tower, investors have a rare opportunity to be part of a distinctive seafront community defined by panoramic sea views, wellness-led amenities and a lifestyle inspired by performance, leisure and resort-style living,” said Amira Sajwani, Managing Director, DAMAC Properties.

As of 2025, Dubai leads the global branded residences market, with strong growth in transaction volumes of 26% YoY and growth in value of 51% YoY. Prices command a significant premium, going as much as 64% over non-branded units, DAMAC said referencing the UAE Branded Residences Report 2025 published by CBRE in December 2025.

Chelsea Residences by DAMAC offers a unique proposition, combining branded real estate, all sea-view apartments and curated amenities centred around football, wellness and resort-style living, the developer explained.

Chelsea Residences Tower C has a limited number of units available for sale, including 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom residences. Apart from the unobstructed views of the sea and the Dubai skyline, residents also enjoy access to several amenities including the UAE’s only rooftop football pitch, a blue-sand beach inspired by the team colours, a beach club and Athlete Training Centre, the statement outlined.

Having delivered more than 50,000 homes and another 8,800 to be delivered in 2026 across Dubai, DAMAC is committed to creating lifestyle-driven communities that elevate everyday living into an immersive experience, the statement concluded.

Source: ME Construction News

The Sustainable City – Yiti has achieved a major construction milestone, clocking more than 25m safe working hours without a Lost Time Injury (LTI), thus marking another significant milestone as construction continues to progress across Oman’s sustainable development.

The achievement demonstrates the project’s approach to delivery, where safety, quality and operational excellence are embedded into every stage of construction, said a statement from the Omani developer.

Spanning nearly 1m sqm, The Sustainable City – Yiti is being developed as Oman’s first Net Zero emissions community by 2040. The fully integrated urban mixed-use project is being set up in Muscat. Once complete, it will be home to more than 10,000 residents and integrate sustainability into every aspect of daily life, including climate-responsive homes, 100% water recycling, complete waste diversion from landfill, and up to 80% self-sufficiency in local food production.

As work advances across the masterplan, the milestone provides further confidence in the project’s continued progress and commitment to delivering a resilient, future-ready destination built to the highest international standards, it stated.

Mahmoud Shehada, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at The Sustainable City – Yiti, said, “Reaching more than 25m safe working hours is a significant achievement that reflects the discipline, collaboration and shared commitment of everyone involved in delivering The Sustainable City – Yiti. Every milestone demonstrates our commitment to building responsibly while maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality.”

“As construction continues to progress, we remain focused on creating a sustainable community that delivers lasting value for Oman, our residents and our investors,” he stated.

Eng. Abdelrahman ELHAG, General Manager of Sustainable Development and Investment Company (SDIC) commented, “Achieving 25m safe working hours is the result of thousands of decisions made every day across the project. It reflects a culture where safety, planning and accountability are embedded into every stage of delivery, from engineering and procurement through to construction. On a development of this scale, operational excellence is built through consistency, collaboration and attention to detail, and this milestone demonstrates the standards that continue to guide every aspect of The Sustainable City – Yiti.”

Construction continues to advance across key residential, hospitality and community assets, including the Yiti Marina Hotel, Plaza, Marine and Wadi Protection Works, Sustainable District Villas, the school and nursery, The Arc luxury serviced apartments, a 4-star hotel and wellness centre, alongside landscape and public realm works, reflecting the project’s continued progress towards bringing Oman’s flagship sustainable community to life.

Source: ME Construction News

Kent has strengthened its footprint in Saudi Arabia after securing long-term agreements and project management consultancy (PMC) contracts with Aramco, positioning the company for future project opportunities in one of the world’s largest energy markets.

These agreements provide Kent with a place on bid panels for potential future brownfield engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) and PMC opportunities, representing  important progress for Kent’s operations in the region.

Iain Eddie, Executive Vice President for EMEA and APAC, Kent said, “The signing of these agreements represents an important step forward for Kent in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and reflects the strength of our delivery capability and long-standing presence in the region.”

“As the Kingdom continues to invest in the future of its energy sector, we remain committed to supporting our clients with safe, high-quality, and performance-driven solutions that create lasting value. KSA continues to be an important market for Kent, where the company has supported Aramco for many years across a broad range of services,” said Eddie.

The signing ceremony was attended by senior representatives from Aramco and industry leaders, reflecting working relationships and a shared focus on project delivery. The achievement reflects the commitment and hard work of teams across Kent who supported the successful award of these agreements.

It also highlights Kent’s continued focus on delivering safe, reliable and high-quality services to clients across the energy industry, the statement concluded.

Source: ME Construction News

China State Construction Engineering Corporation Middle East (CSCEC Middle East) has secured the contract to construct the new headquarters of the Kuwait Direct Investment Promotion Authority (KDIPA) in Kuwait City.

This achievement follows an international competitive tender conducted by the Central Agency for Public Tenders (CAPT). The project entails constructing a 275m tall, 55-story office tower with 5-basement parking levels in the Sharq district, a waterfront commercial area in Kuwait City that overlooks the Arabian Gulf.

CSCEC Middle East will deliver a modern, sustainable office development under this contract.  It will include a one-stop investor service centre, administrative offices, conference and meeting facilities, and advanced smart building technologies. 

The scope of work encompasses the implementation of smart building management technologies and the development of landscaped sky gardens, along with the necessary supporting infrastructure. The entire project is expected to be completed by CSCEC Middle East within a 2-year time frame.

The new headquarters is envisioned as a government complex that will strengthen Kuwait’s investment ecosystem and support the country’s economic diversification objectives outlined in Kuwait Vision 2035.

To achieve these objectives, KDIPA will incorporate energy-efficient design elements such as double-glazed curtain wall systems, intelligent building management systems, and landscaped sky gardens.

These elements will be strategically integrated to enhance the environmental performance and occupant comfort of the building. The project is set to commence soon, with a targeted delivery in the second quarter of 2028.

Source: ME Construction News