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Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC (Masdar), which has released its 13th Annual Sustainability Report. This momentous increase successfully avoided 19.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) emissions globally.

Renewables

The global transition towards sustainable infrastructure is accelerating at an unprecedented pace, with 2025 marking a defining year for international decarbonisation efforts.

Leading this expansion is Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC (Masdar), which has released its 13th Annual Sustainability Report. This momentous increase successfully avoided 19.5 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) emissions globally.

This upward trajectory reflects the continued expansion of the company’s global operating projects. Including a further 20.7GW from secured developments or those nearing final investment approval, the total portfolio reached 66.5GW by the end of 2025.

The 2025 reporting boundary was broadened to include Saeta Yield and TERNA ENERGY for the first time. Key highlights include: It establishes a vital global blueprint, demonstrating how combined solar and battery storage can provide continuous, reliable power at a commercial scale.

Attracting Green Finance and International Investment

Financial markets responded enthusiastically to these global sustainability initiatives.$1 billion green bond in May. This issuance was oversubscribed by 6.6 times, attracting investor orders totalling US$6.6 billion, with international investors securing 85 per cent of the bonds.

This brought the total value of outstanding green bonds to US$2.75 billion. Biodiversity protection was significantly strengthened via the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT), encompassing 23 targeted surveys and three conservation partnerships. Meanwhile, the Emiratisation rate reached approximately 46 per cent (excluding international operations), and teams globally completed 250,000 hours of health, safety, and environmental training.

SEWA is constructing two state-of-the-art water reservoirs in the coastal city of Khorfakkan.

Water

The push for sustainable and resilient urban infrastructure across the United Arab Emirates has taken a significant leap forward, as the Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority (SEWA) announces a major investment in the Emirate's utilities network.

With an injection of AED 28.23mn (approximately US$7.7mn), SEWA is constructing two state-of-the-art water reservoirs in the coastal city of Khorfakkan. This infrastructure upgrade is designed to immediately bolster local water security, doubling the storage capacity at crucial pumping stations and ensuring an uninterrupted supply for a rapidly expanding population.

In an arid climate where economic growth is intrinsically linked to utility resilience, continuous investment in water infrastructure is not merely an operational upgrade; it is a fundamental pillar of national security. As urban centres across Sharjah and the wider UAE continue to attract residential and commercial development, utility providers are under increasing pressure to future-proof their networks. The new Khorfakkan project underscores a proactive approach to this challenge, addressing the rising demand for essential services before it strains the existing framework. By reinforcing its water distribution networks, Sharjah is laying the groundwork for sustainable, long-term urban expansion.

Strategic Project Specifications and Upgrades

The comprehensive development plan focuses on the SEWA 1 and SEWA 2 pumping stations situated in Khorfakkan. By expanding these specific nodes, the authority is targeting the heart of the city's water distribution architecture. The initiative will not only improve the overall sustainability of the network but also significantly enhance its operational flexibility, allowing the system to adapt to varying consumption patterns and seasonal demand spikes.

To provide a clearer picture of the scale and scope of the development, the core project details include:

  • Total Investment Capital: AED 28.23 million (US$7.7 million) allocated for end-to-end construction and integration.

  • Storage Capacity: Two new reservoirs, each capable of holding 2 million gallons, yielding a combined total of 4 million gallons in additional capacity.

  • Strategic Locations: Integration into the existing SEWA 1 and SEWA 2 pumping stations to maximise distribution efficiency.

  • Accelerated Timeline: Expected to become fully operational by the end of 2026, delivering ahead of the contractual deadline of March 2027.

  • Primary Objective: Doubling the current storage capacity to improve network resilience and ensure a reliable, continuous water supply.

Accelerating Delivery to Meet Rising Demand

One of the most notable aspects of this infrastructure rollout is the expedited delivery timeline. Overseen by Engineer Saud Abdul Aziz, Director of the Khorfakkan Department at SEWA, the project is advancing at an accelerated pace. While the contractual completion date is slated for March 2027, the authority is pushing to bring both reservoirs online by the end of 2026. This accelerated schedule is a testament to the urgency and priority placed on securing the region's water supply. By halving the remaining wait time, SEWA aims to deliver immediate benefits to the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors relying on the Khorfakkan network.

A Catalyst for Broader Urban Development

The implications of this AED 28.23 million investment extend far beyond the immediate increase in water storage. Khorfakkan, with its unique geographic positioning and growing appeal as a hub for tourism and commerce, requires robust foundational infrastructure to support its economic ambitions. Reliable water provision is a prerequisite for the development of new housing estates, hospitality venues, and industrial zones.

Furthermore, this project serves as a microcosm of the broader strategy employed by authorities across the UAE to modernise utility management. By integrating higher capacity reservoirs into the legacy network, SEWA is reducing the risk of service interruptions while optimising the energy required to pump and distribute water across varying elevations and distances. This level of operational efficiency reduces long-term maintenance costs and limits the environmental footprint of the distribution process.

The construction of these new water reservoirs represents a vital step in safeguarding the future of Khorfakkan. It highlights a commitment to forward-thinking governance and sustainable urban planning. As the project nears its anticipated completion at the end of 2026, the residents and businesses of Sharjah’s east coast can expect a highly resilient, future-ready water network capable of supporting the next generation of growth and development.

ICC is set to participate as an exhibitor at the highly anticipated Big 5 Construct Saudi 2026.

Construction

The construction landscape across Saudi Arabia is currently undergoing a period of unprecedented expansion, fundamentally reshaping the region's urban footprint.

With major developments and vital infrastructure projects progressing rapidly across the Kingdom, the built environment is increasing in both sheer scale and structural complexity. As the ambition of these engineering feats reaches new heights, the foundational requirement for rigorous safety, design, and execution standards has never been more critical.

Today, the industry is navigating increasingly sophisticated requirements that span architectural design, complex engineering, strict fire safety protocols, and comprehensive construction compliance. The effective application of established building codes and robust regulations remains the central pillar in delivering safe, resilient, and fully compliant infrastructure that will stand the test of time.

Facilitating Compliance at Big 5 Construct Saudi 2026

Against this backdrop of rapid national development, the International Code Council (ICC) is set to participate as an exhibitor at the highly anticipated Big 5 Construct Saudi 2026. Taking place from the 30th of August to the 2nd of September 2026 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Centre, the event serves as a crucial meeting point for industry leaders and decision-makers.

The ICC will use this major regional platform to facilitate vital conversations designed specifically to help construction professionals better understand the local regulatory landscape. The primary objective is to assist practitioners in successfully navigating the practical, day-to-day requirements of the Saudi Building Code (SBC).

To directly address these industry-wide challenges, the ICC is bringing together leading regional experts for a dedicated three-part educational programme. This initiative is heavily focused on the future of code compliance, the core tenets of the Saudi Building Code, and the crucial practical application of these regulations across the Kingdom's active construction sites. Scheduled for the 31st of August at the Big 5 Talks Theatre in Hall 1, the tailored programme aims to move beyond basic theory.

The dedicated ICC schedule includes the following key sessions aimed at standardising safety and quality:

  • Opening Keynote Presentation: Dr Fahad Saud Allahaim, Chairman of the Technical Committee of the Residential Building Code at the Saudi Building Code National Committee and Assistant Professor at King Saud University, will examine the pivotal role of the SBC in advancing project outcomes, elevating quality, and enforcing national safety standards.

  • Practical Compliance Workshop: Titled ‘Navigating the Saudi Building Code: Key Requirements and Compliance Pathways’, this highly focused session will be led by Vortex Fire’s Regional Director, Tom Wood, alongside Senior Fire Engineer, Kareem Morsi. The workshop will offer practical insight into the underlying structure of the SBC, specifically addressing the key requirements of SBC 201 and detailing how to navigate complex compliance pathways.

  • Interactive Expert Q&A: The programme will conclude with ‘Applying the Saudi Building Code: Q&A’. This interactive session will give attendees the valuable opportunity to raise specific questions, explore unique project-specific challenges, and gain expert perspectives on applying SBC mandates in real-world practice.

A Commitment to Resilient Regional Construction

The final interactive panel will be moderated by Mohamed Amer, Managing Director – MENA at the International Code Council, alongside Dr Fahad Saud Allahaim and Kareem Morsi.

Highlighting the strategic importance of this engagement, Mohamed Amer, Managing Director – MENA, International Code Council, said: “As Saudi Arabia’s construction sector continues to evolve, ensuring that codes and standards are understood and effectively applied will be critical to supporting safe, high-quality and successful project outcomes. Big 5 Construct Saudi provides an important platform for bringing together the industry’s experts and practitioners to have meaningful conversations around compliance. This three-part program is designed to move beyond the theory of code requirements and give professionals practical insights they can apply to projects across the Kingdom.”

The ICC’s participation at the event strongly reinforces its ongoing commitment to supporting industry professionals with the knowledge, essential resources, and expertise required for building safety. Visitors to Big 5 Construct Saudi are openly invited to meet the ICC team at Stand 2A160 to learn more about the organisation's work and to explore how rigorous building codes and standards can actively support safer, more resilient, and fully compliant construction across Saudi Arabia and the wider region.

The Ministry of Energy and Minerals has launched a public investment opportunity encompassing two highly anticipated limestone mining sites in Salalah.

Mining

The Sultanate of Oman is taking a decisive step towards bolstering its domestic construction industry and diversifying its economy.

The Ministry of Energy and Minerals has launched a public investment opportunity encompassing two highly anticipated limestone mining sites in Salalah. This strategic move invites qualified Omani companies to bid for the extraction projects, representing a core component of efforts to support the robust development of the nation's mining sector whilst strengthening local production of essential construction materials.

According to a recent ministry announcement, the application window for these locations remains open for three months, commencing on the 19th of July and concluding on the 18th of October 2026. Interested enterprises must submit proposals through the government’s Taqa digital platform. The opportunity explicitly covers two designated limestone mining sites situated within the Public Mining Area in Salalah, a region renowned for rich geological reserves.

Empowering Local Enterprises

A notable characteristic of this public tender is its strict exclusivity. The ministry has stated categorically that the bidding process is open solely to Omani companies and institutions. Furthermore, these entities must possess demonstrable, proven experience in managing mining projects and related operational activities.

This crucial requirement underscores the government's strategic focus on increasing local participation within the lucrative mining sector. By mandating a baseline of technical capability among successful bidders, the ministry ensures the nation’s natural resources are managed by competent domestic operators committed to long-term sustainable extraction.

Securing Domestic Supply Chains

Perhaps the most defining parameter of this new investment opportunity is the strict regulation regarding the destination of extracted minerals. Under the published terms, all limestone production from these two Salalah sites will be entirely restricted to domestic use, with exports strictly not permitted.

This condition is deliberately aimed at supporting the local building materials industry by guaranteeing a stable supply of raw materials for the domestic market. Limestone stands as one of Oman's most abundant mineral resources, serving as an indispensable raw material for cement, construction aggregates, and other building products. Driven by ongoing infrastructure projects, industrial developments, and rapid urban expansion across the Sultanate of Oman, domestic demand for high-quality construction materials is expected to remain exceptionally strong.

Fostering Fair Competition

To ensure equitable resource distribution, the Ministry of Energy and Minerals has implemented stringent regulatory measures regarding site allocation. While companies are encouraged to submit competitive bids for both mining locations, the ministry has firmly mandated that no single company will be awarded more than one site.

Crucially, this restriction also extends to companies owned by the same shareholders. If cross-ownership exceeds the threshold of 30 per cent in relation to the same site, the entities will be subject to the one-site limitation. This measure is intended to promote significantly wider participation, foster healthy competition within the local industry, and prevent the consolidation of essential resource rights into the hands of a few operators.

Advancing Oman Vision 2040

This mineral offering forms an integral part of Oman's broader macroeconomic strategy to develop its mining sector. Mining is identified as a priority industry under the Oman Vision 2040 framework, which seeks to rapidly diversify the national economy beyond hydrocarbons. To actualise this vision, Oman has steadily expanded investment opportunities across various mineral resources. This expansion is heavily supported by geological surveys, regulatory reforms, and efficient digital licensing services designed to attract private-sector investment.

The ministry has increasingly utilised competitive public tenders and digital platforms to allocate mining concessions. This approach achieves greater transparency and operational efficiency whilst encouraging responsible resource development. These proactive measures guarantee that Oman's natural wealth is harvested efficiently and managed in a way that provides maximum benefit to the national economy over the long term.

Interested organisations must act promptly, as applications are required to be submitted electronically via the Taqa e-mining platform before the application period expires. Successful bidders will be legally expected to develop the Salalah sites in strict accordance with technical and regulatory requirements, fulfilling their mandate of supplying limestone exclusively to the domestic market.

Saudi-based Al Yamamah Steel Industries Company has officially named leading Italian engineering firm Danieli as the contractor tasked with establishing a state-of-the-art steel billet production plant in the kingdom.

Manufacturing

Saudi-based Al Yamamah Steel Industries Company has officially named leading Italian engineering firm Danieli as the contractor tasked with establishing a state-of-the-art steel billet production plant in the kingdom.

The monumental project, scheduled for full completion by 2029, represents a significant milestone in the region's expanding industrial and manufacturing landscape.

Initially referred to in earlier regulatory disclosures as an unnamed specialised European corporate entity to protect commercial secrets and maintain competitive advantages, the true identity of the partner has now been publicly confirmed following formal updates filed with the Saudi bourse, Tadawul. The multi-million-dollar undertaking underscores the growing collaboration between Saudi industrial enterprises and world-class European engineering specialists.

Under the terms of the substantial SAR270 million agreement—equivalent to approximately $71 million—the scope of work assigned to the Italian corporation encompasses the complete manufacture, supply, and installation of advanced steel billet production equipment at the subsidiary's dedicated premises in the kingdom. Al Yamamah for Reinforcing Steel Bars Company, a key subsidiary of Al Yamamah Steel Industries, oversees this ambitious venture as part of its ongoing strategy to strengthen upstream steelmaking operations and expand domestic processing capabilities.

Corporate leadership has confirmed that the entire engineering, supply, and installation process will be executed swiftly, with Danieli targeted to finish all contracted works within a strict timeframe of two and a half years. Regarding the broader economic outlook, the Saudi group has noted that the financial impact of this landmark deal is expected to be formally reflected in financial statements during the second half of 2028. Furthermore, industry observers note that adopting such cutting-edge manufacturing methodologies aligns seamlessly with broader national objectives aimed at diversifying the industrial base and bolstering domestic production capabilities.

Headquartered in Buttrio, Italy, Danieli boasts a storied history and an unyielding reputation within the global metallurgical sector. Founded back in 1914 by Mario Danieli, the enterprise has evolved remarkably from its modest steelmaking origins in Milan into a massive, globally respected engineering and manufacturing corporation. Today, Danieli stands proudly recognized as one of the world's top three manufacturers of plants and machinery tailored specifically for the metals industry. The firm commands widespread expertise in designing and building specialised equipment for both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, ranging from heavy-duty electric arc furnaces to complex rolling mills.

A defining operational strength of the Italian group is its comprehensive project oversight model. Danieli expertly manages every developmental phase in-house, stretching seamlessly from initial conceptual design right through to rigorous on-site commissioning. Furthermore, the corporation maintains strategically distributed manufacturing workshops worldwide to guarantee consistently standardised production standards across all international jurisdictions.

The announcement of this major industrial contract follows closely on the heels of important financial restructuring for the subsidiary involved. Last month, Al Yamamah for Reinforcing Steel Bars Company secured official authorization from regulatory authorities to implement a capital increase. This was achieved through the issuance of 25 million brand-new shares priced directly at the company's established book value of SAR12, which equates to roughly $3.20 per share.

As part of this capital strengthening initiative, parent firm Al Yamamah Steel announced it would actively subscribe to 6.3 million shares within the rights issue, committing a total investment of SAR75.6 million. Crucially, this capital injection is being funded entirely through internal corporate resources. The fresh proceeds generated from the share issuance are earmarked to robustly bolster the subsidiary's overarching financial position while concurrently financing the construction phases of its expansive manufacturing plant.

By integrating Danieli's cutting-edge metallurgical technology with robust local funding and strategic vision, Al Yamamah Steel Industries is positioning itself for sustained growth within the competitive regional infrastructure sector. As construction gathers momentum over the coming months, the partnership serves as a testament to the robust economic ties driving modern industrial advancement across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

South Container Terminal (SCT) at Jeddah Islamic Port has officially recorded its highest-ever monthly throughput since commercial operations began in 1999.

Logistics

Global maritime logistics and supply chain resilience are experiencing a transformative moment as key Red Sea trade corridors rebound.

Demonstrating the broader recovery of regional maritime pathways and the increasing adaptability of international shipping networks, the South Container Terminal (SCT) at Jeddah Islamic Port has officially recorded its highest-ever monthly throughput since commercial operations began in 1999. Handling over 221,200 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in July 2026, this vital Saudi gateway has surpassed trade volumes last witnessed prior to the onset of Red Sea shipping disruptions in late 2023.

This milestone underscores a remarkable period of post-disruption recovery, aligning with the gradual return of commercial shipping traffic through western maritime corridors. As international carriers re-establish routes and optimise vessel schedules, terminals equipped with advanced digital technologies and robust physical infrastructure are proving pivotal in supporting uninterrupted, high-volume trade flows across the Middle East.

Record-Breaking Performance and Export Growth

The exceptional July figures are part of a broader, sustained upward trajectory for the terminal throughout 2026. During the first half of the year, SCT throughput surged by nearly 79 per cent year-on-year across imports, exports, and transshipment operations, demonstrating the immense economic dynamism of the region.

Key operational milestones include:

  • Total July Throughput: Over 221,200 TEUs handled in a single record-breaking month.

  • Export Volumes: A monthly high of 79,720 TEUs processed, reflecting robust export growth through the Saudi gateway.

  • Vessel Activity: Accommodated 390 vessel calls during the first half of 2026 alone.

  • Service Expansion: Welcomed new shipping lines, including the maiden call of a Wan Hai-operated mainline container vessel in July.

These figures illustrate how vital modernised, high-capacity port infrastructure is in accommodating larger commercial fleet units while simultaneously driving down vessel turnaround times.

Strengthening Infrastructure and Strategic Vision

To support this rapid expansion in cargo density and maintain operational excellence, ongoing investments in port equipment and terminal modernization are actively reshaping the facility's capacity. Recent upgrades at SCT include the addition of three new quay cranes—bringing the total fleet to 17—alongside 17 automated electric rubber-tyred gantry cranes (AeRTGs). Furthermore, the terminal has integrated 35 electric terminal tractors, 30 additional trailers, and significantly enhanced reefer and cold-storage infrastructure to preserve perishable imports.

Looking ahead, terminal management is pressing forward with a broader development programme aimed at lifting annual throughput capacity to 5 million TEUs.

Reflecting on these milestones, Ahmad Yousef Al-Hassan, CEO & MD, DP World GCC, noted: “Jeddah is a key gateway for Saudi Arabia's trade, connecting businesses in the Kingdom with regional and global markets. As trade flows grow, our focus is on building the capacity and connectivity needed to move catomers more options and more reliable routes to markheir supply chain requirements evo

The Future of Regional Supply Chains

As global supply chains continue to evolve, the seamless integration of maritime terminals with robust inland logistics networks remains paramount. By bridging the gap between deep-water berths, high-efficiency container yards, and multi-modal distribution facilities, operations like Jeddah’s SCT are anchoring the Kingdom’s strategic economic diversification goals. Through continued investment in sustainable technologies, automation, and expanded capacity, the terminal stands ready to serve as a resilient cornerstone for international commerce.