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In The Spotlight

The session was chaired by H.E. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Raisi, Director of Ports and Border Points Affairs at the Sharjah Ports, Customs and Free Zones Authority, and Chairman of the Committee.

Logistics

Modern ports and land borders must operate as seamless logistical hubs, accommodating exponential growth while maintaining rigorous security protocols.

At the forefront of this operational evolution is the Emirate of Sharjah, which is actively advancing its cross-agency integration to fortify its vital infrastructure. In a significant move to streamline operations, the Organisational Committee of Ports and Border Points in Sharjah recently convened to implement comprehensive efficiency upgrades across the emirate.

The 9th Strategic Leadership Meeting

Held at the Khatmat Malaha Border, the 9th meeting of 2026 brought together key government and security entities. The session was chaired by H.E. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Raisi, Director of Ports and Border Points Affairs at the Sharjah Ports, Customs and Free Zones Authority, and Chairman of the Committee. A central focus of the assembly was to review the latest developments across Sharjah’s expansive network of maritime and land borders.

Opening the session, Al Raisi welcomed newly appointed members, whose selection followed the issuance of Sharjah Executive Council Decision No. (39) of 2026. This recent mandate amended the earlier Executive Council Decision No. (30) of 2020, which regulates the Committee. He also conveyed greetings from Sheikh Khaled bin Abdullah bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Ports, Customs and Free Zones Authority, wishing the team continued success in their duties.

Balancing Rapid Transit with Rigorous Security

A primary theme of the discussions was the absolute necessity of working as a unified team. Al Raisi stressed the importance of intensifying collective efforts to continuously develop the border points system. Operational and security readiness must align perfectly with the emirate’s overarching trajectory of growth.

Addressing the complex dynamics of modern border management, Al Raisi stated: "Ports and border points serve as vital gateways for both Sharjah and the UAE. Continued growth in passenger and commercial traffic places a responsibility on the entities operating at these facilities to continue developing their operational systems, improve procedural efficiency and strengthen coordination and integration. These efforts are essential to balancing smooth movement with faster processing while maintaining the highest standards of security, oversight and safety."

Key Operational Enhancements

To achieve these ambitious targets, the committee reviewed its updated mandate under the new regulatory decision. The agenda highlighted multiple pathways to strengthen integration among the diverse entities operating at these checkpoints.

The committee was briefed extensively on recent developments, discussing critical operational matters raised by stakeholders. Key focus areas identified to enhance services for travellers and commercial entities include:

  • Refining Inspection Procedures: Developing more sophisticated methods for processing cargo and travellers safely.
  • Boosting Checkpoint Efficiency: Upgrading the operational capacity of individual inspection points to reduce wait times.
  • Strengthening Oversight: Enhancing overall security measures without compromising the speed of transit.
  • Information Exchange: Fostering closer field coordination and the rapid sharing of vital expertise between operational teams.
  • Actioning Recommendations: Ensuring that strategic measures proposed in previous meetings are swiftly translated into tangible field operations.

Cross-Agency Alignment and Future Readiness

In a move to further solidify the leadership structure governing these efforts, Brigadier Abdulaziz Sarhan Al Zaabi, Director of Land Ports at the General Directorate of Ports, was officially selected as Vice-Chairman of the Committee.

The immense scale of this cross-agency integration was reflected in the diverse array of senior attendees at the meeting. Alongside the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, the session included Colonel Sultan bin Taliah, Director of the Land and Sea Ports Department at Sharjah Police General Headquarters; Lieutenant Colonel Staff Mohammed Al Shamsi, Commander of the Northern Sector at the Border Guard Group of the National Guard Command; and Abdullah Al Badwawi, Director of the Customs Risk and Ports Security Department at the General Directorate of Customs and Ports Security. Representatives from the State Security Department (SSD) and Abdullah Abdulrahman Al Kindi of the Sharjah Ports, Customs and Free Zones Authority were also present.

By translating strategic recommendations into practical, on-the-ground measures, Sharjah is building an agile infrastructure capable of anticipating the future demands of global transit.

Dubai Municipality has officially joined the Digital Twin Consortium (DTC).

Information Technology

The rapid evolution of modern urban planning is fundamentally changing how major global hubs manage their physical environments and infrastructure.

At the heart of this transformation is the integration of advanced geospatial technologies and the concept of a digital twin—a dynamic, highly accurate digital representation of real-world urban spaces.

Dubai Municipality has officially joined the Digital Twin Consortium (DTC). This strategic membership expands the organisation’s engagement with a vast international network of technology innovators, urban planning experts, and digital transformation specialists. By aligning itself with a global community dedicated to advancing these systems, the municipality is set to accelerate its pioneering “Dubai Digital Twin” initiative. The overarching ambition is clear: to leverage cutting-edge geospatial technology to solidify Dubai’s position among the smartest, most advanced, and sustainably developed cities in the world

Global Collaboration in Geospatial Technologies

The announcement of this prestigious membership directly followed the participation of Dubai Municipality—represented by its Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Centre—in the recent DTC Members’ Meeting held in Orlando, Florida, in the United States. This high-level event brought together prominent members of the Consortium to discuss the latest advancements in the field. The gathering served as a vital forum for exchanging expertise, reviewing best practices in geospatial data applications, and comparing various strategic approaches to digitising urban landscapes. Participants from ten different countries were in attendance, presenting their unique experiences, technologies, and applications, thus providing a comprehensive overview of emerging international practices.

During the extensive sessions at the meeting, the GIS Centre delegation provided a detailed presentation on Dubai’s unique journey in utilising these advanced technologies.

Practical Applications and Operational Successes

To illustrate the practical capabilities of its initiatives, Dubai Municipality showcased several impressive milestones and operational successes.

  • Extensive 3D Modelling: The successful creation of high-fidelity 3D models encompassing more than 195,000 buildings across the emirate, providing an unparalleled digital blueprint of the city’s architectural landscape.

  • System Integration: The seamless technical integration between the municipality’s digital twin platform and the No Objection Certificate (NOC) system.

  • Utility Collaboration: The development of these integrated systems in close collaboration with various utility entities operating across Dubai.

  • Infrastructure Coordination: The enhanced ability to support complex infrastructure coordination and streamline interactions between different government and private sector bodies.

  • Scenario Simulation: The capacity to accurately simulate real-world conditions, allowing planners to test potential impacts before implementing physical changes.

These robust capabilities demonstrate precisely how an advanced digital infrastructure can strengthen overall urban planning and fundamentally improve public service delivery. By connecting disparate data streams into a unified visual and analytical platform, the municipality can pre-emptively address the logistical challenges of rapid urban expansion.

Managing Continued Urban Development

Dubai Municipality’s active membership in the Digital Twin Consortium is a core component of its wider strategic efforts to expand international collaboration. As the emirate continues its trajectory of rapid growth, the application of these advanced digital solutions will be instrumental in managing its continued urban development. By exchanging knowledge on a global stage and continually refining its geospatial technologies, Dubai is setting a powerful benchmark for what the smart cities of tomorrow can achieve.

Parker Hannifin, a Fortune 250 global leader specialising in motion and control technologies, has announced the launch of its new Viking Xtreme ISO valve series.

Manufacturing

Industrial automation and mobile electrification require components that can withstand increasingly demanding operational environments.

Across sectors such as railway transit, agriculture, and oil and gas, modern machinery relies on robust pneumatic control systems to ensure consistent, uninterrupted performance. Addressing these complex engineering challenges head-on, Parker Hannifin, a Fortune 250 global leader specialising in motion and control technologies, has announced the launch of its new Viking Xtreme ISO valve series. This compact, ISO-standard subbase valve platform is specifically engineered to handle the rigours of general, mobile-related, and harsh industrial applications.

To maximise installation flexibility and operational performance, engineers can deploy these valves in varied configurations to suit their specific infrastructure. Key installation and operational features include:

  • The ability to install the valve on a single subbase or integrate it into a stackable manifold.

  • Stackable manifold installations that effectively support pressure zoning within centralised applications.

  • Internal or external pilot configurations that can be conveniently adjusted in the field to meet precise application requirements.

Advanced Core Technology for Extreme Conditions

At the core of this newly launched platform is Parker’s advanced over-moulded spool technology. This specific engineering choice supports a long service life, broad operating capabilities, and a reliable, high-performance output even under continuous strain. The bi-directional, over-moulded spool is designed to function seamlessly in extreme temperatures, operating efficiently from -40°C to +70°C (-40°F to +158°F). In addition to its impressive temperature resilience, the system accommodates an operating pressure range that spans from a vacuum up to 10 bar. For pneumatic remote pilot variants, this pressure threshold extends even further to 16 bar. The platform also boasts exceptional flow performance, delivering flow rates ranging from 540 Nl/min (0.55 Cv) up to a substantial 5900 Nl/min (6.01 Cv).

Mobile-related applications and harsh environmental conditions present unique threats to machinery, notably through constant vibration, sudden impacts, and corrosive external elements. To combat these recurring issues, the Viking Xtreme ISO valve series offers various solenoid voltages paired with either standard or mobile-rated coils, alongside remote pilot valve options. The mobile versions of this valve have successfully passed rigorous shock and vibration testing, comprehensively meeting the stringent IEC 6173:1999, category 1, class B standards.

To further protect against corrosion in highly challenging and exposed settings, the valves incorporate durable materials throughout their entire construction. Essential durability features include:

  • The strategic utilisation of stainless steel for end fasteners, internal springs, and solenoid armatures.

  • An impressive salt spray qualification that exceeds 1000 hours of continuous testing.

  • A robust construction that fully supports operation in demanding salt spray applications.

Strategic Consolidation for Machinery Design

These modern advancements allow plant managers and machinery designers to rethink their pneumatic infrastructure entirely. The new series is explicitly designed to help operators consolidate their existing ISO non-plug-in valve inventories. Depending on the specific application, the versatile platform may enable a one-size reduction. This potential downsizing can significantly help to lower overall operational costs, reduce footprint dimensions, and decrease equipment weight, all without sacrificing the required system performance.

Speaking on the strategic launch of this robust new platform, Patrick Berdal, European Product Manager for Controls within the Electric Motion & Pneumatic Division at Parker Hannifin, highlighted the industry's constantly evolving needs.

“Customers are looking for compact, reliable pneumatic valve solutions that help simplify machine design while performing in demanding operating conditions,” said Berdal. “The Viking Xtreme ISO valve series reflects Parker’s commitment to engineering solutions that improve productivity, uptime, and operational efficiency for customers across key industrial and mobile markets.”.

As a fundamental part of the broader Motion Systems Group, Parker's Electric Motion and Pneumatic Division continues to design and manufacture components that actively improve system safety, efficiency, and performance across both heavy industrial applications and modern mobile electrification.

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Energy

Türkiye is definitively transforming into a clean energy and synthetic fuels powerhouse, serving as the essential green bridge for the EU-MENAT region.

Renewables

The global transition towards zero-emission energy has reached a critical juncture, with nations racing to establish secure, sustainable supply chains.

Positioned at the geographical and economic crossroads of the world, the corridor connecting the European Union with the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is rapidly emerging as a focal point for renewable infrastructure. Within this highly strategic landscape, a major development has been spotlighted. According to recent insights published by Dii Desert Energy, Turkey is definitively transforming into a clean energy and synthetic fuels powerhouse, serving as the essential green bridge for the EU-MENAT region.

Historically recognised as a pivotal transit hub for fossil fuels, Turkey is now aggressively rewriting its energy narrative. The nation is moving swiftly to capitalise on its vast wind and solar resources, aiming to pivot from a net energy importer to a formidable exporter of low-emission power. This transformation is not merely a domestic ambition; it is a critical enabler for European markets seeking reliable, decarbonised energy alternatives to meet stringent net-zero targets.

The 120 GW National Energy Plan

At the core of this monumental shift is Turkey’s highly ambitious National Energy Plan. Realising the urgent need to decarbonise and achieve energy independence, the government has set a definitive trajectory for the coming decade. The plan focuses extensively on scaling up domestic generation, fundamentally altering the national energy mix.

By the year 2035, the country aims to reach an impressive 120 gigawatts (GW) of installed renewable capacity. To achieve this, the nation plans to quadruple its current solar and wind generation capabilities. Local wind production, in particular, is slated to take a leading role in this rapid expansion. By harnessing its natural meteorological advantages, Turkey intends to significantly diminish its historical reliance on imported carbon-intensive fuels, ensuring a resilient and sustainable domestic grid while unlocking export potential.

Upgrading the Grid: A $28 Billion Investment

Generating immense volumes of renewable energy is only the first step; transmitting and storing it requires robust, modernised infrastructure. Dii Desert Energy highlights that integrating this unprecedented scale of wind and solar into regional power systems demands meticulous coordination. To support the 2035 targets, Turkey has outlined a comprehensive $28 billion grid modernisation programme.

Key components of this massive infrastructure overhaul include:

  • Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS): The deployment of 7.5 GW of large-scale battery capacity. This is the primary enabler for grid stability, managing the inherent intermittency of renewable sources and ensuring a consistent power supply.

  • Green Hydrogen Electrolysers: The development of 5 GW of electrolyser capacity, which will establish the necessary foundation for a thriving, domestic green hydrogen economy.

  • Common User Infrastructure (CUI): The strategic rollout of shared infrastructure to de-risk giga-scale renewable developments. This approach significantly lowers entry barriers for commercial project developers and accelerates deployment.

Pioneering the Synthetic Fuels Market

Beyond the direct transmission of green electricity, Turkey is strategically positioning itself as a global leader in the low-emission molecules sector. By marrying its expanding renewable capacity with advanced electrolyser technology, the country is laying the groundwork for the large-scale commercial production of green hydrogen and synthetic fuels.

To navigate the complex regulatory and financial landscape of this nascent industry, Turkey has engaged in high-level international collaborations. Working alongside institutions such as the World Bank, the nation is actively developing a comprehensive national hydrogen roadmap. This strategic framework is designed to overcome existing hurdles related to commercial offtake agreements and create an exceptionally favourable environment for international investment, ensuring that long-term green fuel projects are bankable and secure.

Uniting the EU-MENA Energy Divide

Ultimately, Turkey’s greatest asset remains its unique geopolitical positioning. As the European Union accelerates its decarbonisation efforts, the demand for cross-border clean energy imports is surging at an unprecedented rate. Meanwhile, the MENA region offers some of the most favourable conditions globally for low-cost renewable generation.

Through its $28 billion grid overhaul and unwavering commitment to green hydrogen, Turkey is cementing its role as the indispensable link between these two vital markets. By facilitating the seamless transfer of zero-emission power and synthetic fuels across continents, the nation is not just upgrading its own grid—it is actively driving the industrial green transformation of the entire region.

Kingdom Konsult of Qatar and The Biofuel Company of Saudi Arabia have joined forces to officially bring B100 biofuel to the Qatari market.

El Gouna Red Sea, the flagship year-round destination developed by Orascom Development Egypt, which has officially announced the opening of its latest green infrastructure project, Solarize-2.

Water

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.

UK-based wastewater treatment specialist Bluewater Bio has secured a contract to upgrade and expand the MODON Industrial Wastewater Treatment Plant (IWWTP) at Jeddah 1st Industrial City, lifting capacity by 60 per cent whilst maintaining continuous operations for local manufacturers.

EMFIS® is expanding its methodology across EYWA Way of Water.

Construction

Chinese engineering and construction firm SEPCOIII has officially announced the full commercial operation of the Saudi Red Sea Utility Infrastructure Project.

Construction

Chinese engineering and construction firm SEPCOIII has officially announced the full commercial operation of the Saudi Red Sea Utility Infrastructure Project.

This achievement marks a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 programme. By seamlessly blending renewable power generation, substantial battery storage, and advanced water management, the multi-utility project sets a new global benchmark for sustainable tourism development. It demonstrates how luxury hospitality can thrive independently of interconnected national power grids, offering an operating example for similar isolated networks globally.

The vision for off-grid tourism infrastructure

The Red Sea development is engineered to be one of the world's most ambitious regenerative tourism destinations. However, establishing a luxury footprint in a remote, ecologically sensitive coastal region requires a radical departure from conventional utility solutions. Extending traditional transmission lines and water pipelines is frequently uneconomic and environmentally disruptive.

To address these distinct geographical and ecological challenges, the mega-resort relies entirely on a self-sustaining microgrid. The successful commercialisation of this integrated utility project underscores the kingdom's serious commitment to sustainable infrastructure within its giga-projects. For investors and developers eyeing the wider region, reliable, green utility infrastructure is a fundamental differentiator, enhancing long-term value and livability while safeguarding natural habitats.

Integrated systems powering the Red Sea

SEPCOIII, a wholly owned subsidiary of POWERCHINA, delivered the venture under an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) agreement. It is widely recognised as the first utility-scale commercial installation globally to integrate multiple complementary power and utility systems of this magnitude.

Rather than just focusing on power generation, the comprehensive package provides all essential services to luxury hotels and tourism facilities across the destination. Under the EPC contract, the interconnected infrastructure components delivered include:

  • A 358 MWac solar photovoltaic (PV) generation plant.

  • A battery-based energy storage system (BESS) featuring a capacity of more than 1,300 MWh.

  • Robust electrical grid systems and telecommunications infrastructure.

  • Seawater desalination plants paired with potable water distribution lines.

  • Complete wastewater conveyance networks and advanced sewage treatment facilities.

  • Sustainable solid-waste processing and district cooling setups.

Setting global records in renewable energy

The transition to full commercial operation represents the completion of the wider multi-utility package, bringing online assets that have been progressively commissioned since 2023. The project was developed under a public-private partnership structure, bolstered by a long-term offtake agreement supported by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). Key technology partners included major Chinese suppliers for the energy storage and solar modules.

Because of its unprecedented scale and innovative integration, the multi-utility microgrid has garnered substantial international acclaim. Its technical advancements and eco-conscious construction methods have resulted in numerous industry accolades:

  • A Guinness World Record in 2025 for the world's largest off-grid battery energy storage project by capacity.

  • The prestigious 2022 MUSE Design Gold Award.

  • The 2026 Renewable Energy Innovation of the Year Award.

  • The 2026 Sustainable Construction Project of the Year Award.

Economic and Environmental Impact

Beyond the immediate environmental benefits of displacing fossil fuels and preserving the pristine coastal ecosystem, the utility mega-project delivers robust economic advantages. The broader Red Sea development, propelled by this foundational infrastructure, is projected to create approximately 70,000 jobs. Furthermore, it is expected to contribute an estimated SAR 22 billion to the national GDP.

By successfully bringing this colossal system to full commercial operation, SEPCOIII has demonstrated that large-scale renewable energy, storage, water, and waste systems can be seamlessly combined to support sustainable tourism in isolated locations. The technical and operational lessons learned from this record-breaking installation will undoubtedly pave the way for future off-grid developments, proving that high-end luxury and absolute sustainability can cohesively coexist.

The Volvo CE Masters World Final recently concluded, celebrating the very best talent within the sector.

The Middle East is currently overseeing some of the world's most ambitious infrastructure developments, driving unprecedented demand for high-grade construction materials. Wet processing experts CDE have partnered with Stevin Rock to deliver two major sand and aggregates wash plants at the Al Ghail facility in the United Arab Emirates.

Mining

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.

Aramco and Ma’aden have officially signed a shareholders’ agreement to establish a joint venture aimed at unlocking significant new frontiers for mineral exploration and hard-rock mining across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

Egypt and Jordan have formally agreed to significantly deepen their strategic partnership across the energy and mining sectors.

Manufacturing

Teledyne FLIR has introduced the first thermal imaging cameras to achieve the ANSI/CAN/UL 2684 listing, providing an independently evaluated benchmark for thermal image fire detection to support resilient industrial operations.

Manufacturing

Industrial fire safety across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is shifting from reactive emergency response to proactive risk management.

Traditional fire detection technologies have long relied on identifying products of combustion, like smoke or flame, meaning a fire has already begun before an alarm triggers. In critical infrastructure, an abnormal temperature rise often provides the earliest indication of an emerging hazard. Addressing this, Teledyne FLIR has introduced the first thermal imaging cameras to achieve the ANSI/CAN/UL 2684 listing, providing an independently evaluated benchmark for thermal image fire detection to support resilient industrial operations.

Elevating Standards for Gulf Infrastructure

The recent UL 2684 listing of Teledyne FLIR's A40 and A70 (Axx-Series) models marks a watershed moment for fire engineers and asset owners. This aligns with the 2025 edition of NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code. Under Section 17.12, NFPA 72 includes a dedicated category requiring thermal image fire detection systems to be explicitly listed.

For the GCC, where established fire protection frameworks lean heavily on NFPA codes and UL-listed equipment, this establishes a clearer pathway for specifying early detection solutions. While this benchmark does not replace local Civil Defence approvals, it offers stakeholders objective, laboratory-tested equipment rather than relying solely on manufacturer claims. The standard sets strict requirements for environmental performance, durability, and fire testing.

Key Applications in Critical Assets

The relevance to Middle Eastern markets is driven by the rapid expansion of high-value infrastructure. Thermal imaging provides early warnings where equipment degradation can smoulder long before ignition. Crucial applications include:

  • Data Centres: Identifying anomalies like a busbar joint heating whilst under load.
  • Solar Installations: Detecting faults in rooftop arrays, specifically within DC connectors or inverters where conventional detectors are absent.
  • Heavy Industry: Safeguarding continuous-process manufacturing and refining operations.
  • Energy Storage: Monitoring battery energy storage systems and electrical utilities.

The Mechanics of Proactive Visualisation

Unlike standard cameras used merely for general visualisation, a calibrated thermal image fire detector continuously measures absolute temperatures across every pixel. Operators can establish measurement regions to monitor precise temperature differentials, absolute thresholds, and rates of temperature increase.

This capability is vital because industrial equipment naturally fluctuates in temperature. A transformer running warm during standard operations is not a fire condition; however, if that component begins climbing in temperature whilst its operational load is falling, it provides a crucial early warning.

By identifying thermal anomalies before smoke is generated, organisations can transition from crisis management to planned maintenance. Teams can isolate a battery module or tighten a loose connection before operations are disrupted. Axx-Series cameras enhance this by combining thermal detection with visible imaging, allowing operators to verify alarms swiftly. Analytics are processed on the camera, minimising reliance on external servers and enabling devices to initiate events directly through compatible control systems.

Brady Corporation has introduced the new i7500 RFID label printer, a device designed to eliminate consumable waste and streamline on-premise RFID encoding.

Parker Hannifin, a Fortune 250 global leader specialising in motion and control technologies, has announced the launch of its new Viking Xtreme ISO valve series.

Logistics

The Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO) has officially announced a strategic partnership with logistics giant DHL.

Logistics

When elite athletes push the boundaries of human endurance across multiple continents, an equally formidable feat of stamina is occurring entirely behind the scenes.

The global movement of sporting infrastructure is a complex operation that demands absolute precision. Ensuring that fragile bicycles, elite broadcasting gear, medical supplies, and sprawling race infrastructure arrive without a hitch is the invisible engine powering international competition.

The Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO) has officially announced a strategic partnership with logistics giant DHL. This agreement appoints DHL Global Event Logistics as the Official Logistics Partner for the highly anticipated final three events of the 2026 T100 Triathlon World Tour, set to take place across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

The GCC has rapidly transformed into a global epicentre for elite sporting events, demanding world-class operational frameworks. The climax of the 2026 T100 season is poised to highlight this regional capability, with three crucial stops bringing the nine-part world tour to a spectacular conclusion.

The Middle Eastern leg of the championship calendar is structured as follows:

  • Dubai, UAE: 13-15 November 2026.

  • Saudi Arabia: 27 November 2026.

  • Qatar (World Championship Finals): 10-12 December 2026.

The intricacies of global event logistics

Triathlon is inherently an equipment-intensive discipline. Accommodating the rigorous requirements of elite swimming, cycling, and running means that the volume and fragility of the cargo are immense. Moving a massive international sporting event between three different countries in under a month is a formidable undertaking. It involves bespoke solutions tailored to the specific customs regulations, transport infrastructure, and operational nuances of each host market.

DHL’s remit encompasses the deployment of integrated international freight solutions. This includes handling both inbound and outbound freight movements, managing the seamless transition of race equipment, and overseeing all associated event materials. The logistics programme will rigorously prioritise advanced planning, customs compliance, operational coordination, and freight visibility to guarantee time-critical delivery.

Speaking on the logistical demands of the tour, Sue Donoghue, DHL Global Forwarding KSA CEO, said: “We are extremely proud that DHL Global Event Logistics has been appointed the Official Logistics Partner for the Professional Triathletes Organisation and the T100 Triathlon World Tour across its three GCC events in 2026. Delivering major international sporting events requires detailed planning, customs expertise, operational precision and full visibility at every stage of the logistics journey. This is where our team brings real value – helping to ensure that critical equipment and event materials arrive safely, on time and exactly where they need to be.”

A global footprint reaching its zenith

Before the tour arrives in the Middle East, the competition will have already traversed a gruelling, multi-continent schedule. The 2026 T100 Triathlon World Tour commenced on the Gold Coast (21-22 March), followed by major stops in Singapore (25-26 April), Spain (23-24 May), San Francisco (6-7 June), and Vancouver (15-16 August). Following an upcoming stop on the French Riviera (19-20 September), the athletes and the logistical caravan will direct their focus toward the Gulf.

Such an expansive geographic footprint underscores exactly why securing a globally integrated supply chain partner is paramount.

Expanding on the significance of the region, Donoghue added: “With Dubai, Saudi Arabia and Qatar hosting the final stages of the 2026 T100 season, this partnership gives us an exciting opportunity to demonstrate DHL’s specialist event logistics capabilities across three of the region’s most important sporting markets.”

Strategic alignment for future growth

For the Professional Triathletes Organisation, safeguarding the competitive integrity of the tour means ensuring athletes have what they need, precisely when they need it. The collaboration with a market leader ensures that the logistical complexities of operating in multiple Middle Eastern jurisdictions will not compromise the delivery of the sporting spectacle.

Responding, PTO Chief Commercial Officer Stuart Ramsey, said: “We are delighted to welcome DHL as a partner for our 2026 GCC events. Delivering world-class international sporting events across multiple countries requires experienced partners who understand the complexity, deadlines and operational standards involved.”

By addressing the unique transport and customs requirements of Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, this partnership establishes a robust operational baseline for the sport's continued expansion.

Ramsey concluded: “DHL brings an exceptional global network together with significant experience in international event logistics, and we look forward to working together across Dubai, Saudi Arabia and Qatar as we continue to grow the T100 Triathlon World Tour.”

The session was chaired by H.E. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Raisi, Director of Ports and Border Points Affairs at the Sharjah Ports, Customs and Free Zones Authority, and Chairman of the Committee.

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