In The Spotlight
ACCIONA has successfully piloted an innovative cement-free concrete pavement.
ACCIONA pilots novel cement-free concrete pavement in Dubai
ACCIONA has successfully piloted an innovative cement-free concrete pavement.
Unveiled in Dubai on the 1st of July, 2026, this pioneering initiative represents a major leap forward for low-carbon transport infrastructure. The newly developed prototype pavement utilises fourteen precast slabs, all of which have been manufactured using a completely novel, cement-free concrete formulation. By replacing traditional clinkers with repurposed industrial by-products that act as a high-performance binder, ACCIONA has marked a decisive step towards the development of infrastructure with a substantially lower environmental footprint. This advancement is particularly timely, as it aligns perfectly with the rapidly growing demand for highly sustainable construction solutions across the Middle East.
The pilot pavement has been strategically installed directly on the access road leading to ACCIONA’s Equipment Park. Spanning a total surface area of 108 square metres, this site was deliberately chosen to serve as a comprehensive, full-scale demonstrator. The primary objective of this demonstrator is to rigorously evaluate the pavement's structural and material performance under exceptionally demanding environmental conditions. Furthermore, it will be tested against the intense wear and tear caused by heavy-vehicle traffic.
The evaluation process will monitor how the novel concrete withstands various extreme stressors that are typical of infrastructure environments situated within arid and semi-arid regions. These operational stressors prominently include prolonged exposure to high ambient temperatures and severe surface abrasion.
To successfully produce this advanced geopolymer concrete, ACCIONA utilised a specific blend of industrial by-products. The composition includes fly ash, which was supplied directly from a thermal power plant, alongside steel slag derived from blast-furnace steel production operations. The steel slag was provisioned by CEMCO Cement Trading, highlighting the collaborative nature of this sustainable supply chain. These carefully sourced sustainable materials undergo a sophisticated chemical activation process to form the final concrete product. This critical chemical activation was made entirely possible through a strategic partnership with MC Bauchemie Spain. As a vital project collaborator, MC Bauchemie Spain supplied the essential chemical activator whilst also providing the specialised technical support required to develop and meticulously fine-tune the new concrete formulation.
The environmental benefits of this new concrete are profoundly significant, primarily driven by the total elimination of clinker from the manufacturing process. As a direct result, the cement-free concrete delivers a remarkable 76 per cent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions when compared with conventional reference cement, specifically CEM I.
However, the advantages of this pavement extend far beyond its lowered environmental impact. The solution features a modular precast design, which fundamentally streamlines the entire lifecycle of the infrastructure. This modularity simplifies the initial manufacturing phase, accelerates on-site installation procedures, and drastically reduces ongoing maintenance requirements. Furthermore, the precast slabs actively support circular economy principles by facilitating straightforward reuse and efficient recycling at the end of their operational life.
These modular and sustainable characteristics are considered particularly relevant for the Middle East market. Throughout the region, large-scale infrastructure projects, extensive logistics corridors, expanding industrial zones, and new urban developments are increasingly prevalent. Such vast developments fundamentally require construction solutions that are not only highly durable but also resource-efficient and low-carbon, ensuring they remain aligned with rigorous national sustainability and circular economy agendas.
This specific initiative is intrinsically linked to the broader European LIAISON project. ACCIONA’s participation in this European innovation project aims to expertly design and validate sustainable solutions for developing low-carbon transportation infrastructure. Ultimately, these solutions possess significant potential for widespread applicability across international markets, very much including the Middle East.
The successful deployment of this pavement pilot further cements ACCIONA’s position as a global company and a recognised leader in the provision of regenerative solutions for a decarbonised economy. The organisation's extensive business offering encompasses a wide array of sustainable sectors, including renewable energy generation, water treatment and management, eco-efficient transportation and mobility systems, and resilient infrastructures. Demonstrating a long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship, the company has successfully maintained a carbon-neutral operational status since 2016. Illustrating the vast scale of its global operations, ACCIONA recorded impressive sales figures of €8.1 billion in the year 2021. Today, the enterprise maintains a robust and active business presence spanning across more than sixty countries worldwide.
Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) has announced significant progress in restoring production at its Al Taweelah facility, achieving crucial early milestones ahead of schedule.
EGA reports rapid progress in Al Taweelah smelter restart
Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) has announced significant progress in restoring production at its Al Taweelah facility, achieving crucial early milestones ahead of schedule.
The industrial site suffered substantial damage on the 28th of March when Iranian attacks on the Khalifa Economic Zone Abu Dhabi forced an emergency shutdown.
Safety and Infrastructure Recovery
Following the incident, EGA emphasised that the safety of employees and contractors remains its highest priority. Two employees sustained injuries requiring hospitalisation; both have since been discharged to continue their recoveries. The company quickly established a dedicated team tasked with delivering a safe restoration of the Al Taweelah facilities.
Repairs to damaged infrastructure have progressed rapidly. Basic utilities are now restored across the complex, and the availability of natural gas and electricity is projected to ramp up to meet the demands of the restart programme.
Smelter and Reduction Cell Progress
EGA must progressively restore 1,262 reduction cells to resume hot metal production at the smelter. The company has completed anode removal across all reduction cells. Bath cleaning is approximately 90 per cent complete, and frozen metal has been removed from over 20 per cent of the cells. The first restored reduction cell was restarted on the 26th of May, and 89 reduction cells have been restarted so far. While hot metal production could take up to a year to return to pre-incident levels, EGA is working to accelerate this timeline.
Casthouse, Recycling, and Refining The Al Taweelah Casthouse produced its first cast metal on the 4th of May. The facility is currently remelting the frozen metal extracted from the reduction cells to manufacture finished aluminium products, alongside casting new hot metal from the restored reduction cells.
Before the March incident, the recycling plant had recently commenced final commissioning and cast metal production. Commissioning work resumed in April, followed by recycled cast metal production in early May. The ramp-up to full production is anticipated to take up to six months, maintaining the original timeline based on scrap availability.
At the alumina refinery, first alumina production is expected early in the third quarter. A rapid ramp-up to full production will depend on the optimisation of bauxite supply chains, though the broader ramp-up of hot metal production is not reliant on the refinery reaching full capacity.
Leadership Perspective
Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, said: "We are rapidly and safely actioning a clear, disciplined plan to restore production at Al Taweelah, which is one of the most important aluminium production complexes in the world. All opportunities to accelerate the timeline further are being explored, and we will achieve our goal of emerging stronger than ever before. Our people have risen to this challenge, and I commend their continued heroism and dedication to EGA's bright future."
Jebel Ali Operations and Logistics
While Al Taweelah recovers, EGA’s Jebel Ali site continues to produce aluminium at full capacity. Inbound deliveries of major raw materials currently exceed requirements, leading to increasing raw material stockpiles in the UAE. EGA possessed significant volumes of metal in transit and overseas warehouses at the onset of the conflict, allowing continued supply to some customers. Although outbound logistics constraints in March caused a temporary suspension of new shipments, EGA has successfully established alternative logistics routes using ports outside the Strait of Hormuz. The company is selling more metal than it produces at Jebel Ali, gradually reducing UAE stockpiles, though a full return to pre-crisis shipment levels requires the re-opening of the Strait.
As a member of the IDEA Board of Directors, Bin Shafar joined global industry leaders and representatives from various nations and international organisations to sign a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Empower signs global MoU to advance district cooling
During the 117th International District Energy Association (IDEA) Conference and Exhibition 2026, a significant milestone was reached for the global sustainable energy sector.
His Excellency Ahmad Bin Shafar, the Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation PJSC (Empower) participated in a pivotal international agreement. As a member of the IDEA Board of Directors, Bin Shafar joined global industry leaders and representatives from various nations and international organisations to sign a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement is designed to accelerate the deployment of district cooling systems worldwide.
The strategic MoU arrives at a critical juncture for climate action. Its primary objective is to strengthen international cooperation and hasten the widespread adoption of district cooling systems. These systems are increasingly acknowledged as a proven, practical solution to pressing environmental challenges. By implementing district cooling, cities can substantially improve energy efficiency, enhance energy security, support local economies, and drastically reduce carbon emissions.
To achieve these ambitious goals, the MoU emphasises the necessity of robust international collaboration. The signatories have committed to facilitating the active exchange of industry expertise and promoting technological innovation across borders. Furthermore, the agreement outlines critical support for the development of modern policies and regulatory frameworks. Establishing these foundations is essential to help accelerate the seamless implementation of district cooling systems in cities around the globe. Ultimately, the document reflects a shared commitment among signatories to advance the transition towards energy systems that are highly sustainable and resilient.
This strategic alliance aligns perfectly with the overarching objectives of the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement. It also serves as a direct reflection of the parties' mutual dedication to advancing the critical climate and sustainability goals set forth by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. For Empower, the signing of this MoU underscores the organisation's rapidly growing role in supporting major international initiatives. The company is actively working to accelerate the global transition to a low-carbon economy through the cultivation of strategic partnerships, the open exchange of vital knowledge, and enhanced collaboration among key stakeholders operating across the sustainable energy sector. Furthermore, Empower's proactive participation in this global event reinforces its position as a leading global player in the district cooling industry and an active contributor to shaping the future of sustainable urban energy systems.
Highlighting the importance of this global collaboration, H.E. Ahmad Bin Shafar stated:
“This agreement reflects a growing international commitment to strengthening cooperation and knowledge exchange to accelerate the development and wider adoption of district cooling systems as a practical and effective solution for advancing sustainability, improving energy efficiency, and reducing carbon emissions. At Empower, we are proud to represent the UAE in this important initiative, which reflects the country's leading position in supporting climate solutions and advancing the transition to a low-carbon economy, guided by our visionary leadership and its steadfast commitment to sustainability, innovation, and strategic partnerships. We believe that district cooling and district energy play a pivotal role in building more efficient, resilient, and future-ready cities, and that expanding international cooperation will help accelerate the transition to more sustainable urban energy systems, while supporting local economic growth and strengthening communities' resilience to the challenges of climate change,” said H.E. Ahmad Bin Shafar.
Empower’s prominent role at the event extended beyond the MoU signing. The company participated as a Diamond Sponsor of the IDEA Conference and Exhibition 2026, which was meticulously organised under the central theme of ‘Connecting Networks’. The international conference took place from 23 to 26 June 2026 in Ottawa, Canada. Empower's participation featured several key engagements that cemented its industry leadership. This included Bin Shafar's active participation in high-level keynote sessions, as well as a comprehensive series of strategic meetings with senior government officials and respected industry experts. These discussions were designed to explore new opportunities to further strengthen international cooperation and facilitate the exchange of best practices within the district cooling industry.
The contract was signed at BEEAH Headquarters by H.E. Sultan Mohammed Al Ketbi, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities Affairs, and Khaled Al Huraimel, Group CEO and Vice Chairman of BEEAH, alongside key municipal delegates.
Sharjah launches advanced Al Dhaid waste management complex
Sharjah’s Department of Municipalities Affairs signed a landmark contract with BEEAH to establish an integrated waste management project in Al Dhaid City.
Spanning 430,000 square metres in the Maghsa area, this cutting-edge complex is designed to centralise sustainable, end-to-end waste management. The contract was signed at BEEAH Headquarters by H.E. Sultan Mohammed Al Ketbi, Chairman of the Department of Municipalities Affairs, and Khaled Al Huraimel, Group CEO and Vice Chairman of BEEAH, alongside key municipal delegates.
The expansive complex will host a variety of specialised facilities to champion the circular economy. These include designated areas for material recovery, construction and demolition waste, industrial wastewater, and animal byproducts, alongside a fully engineered sanitary landfill. The site will address hard-to-recycle materials through advanced waste-to-energy conversion and the production of refuse-derived fuel. By aligning with international best practices, the initiative optimises resource efficiency, maximises recyclable material recovery, and significantly reduces landfill dependency across Sharjah.
Expanding Regional Impact Through Strategic Phases
Strategically positioned to serve seven municipalities, the project covers the central and eastern regions. The central zone operations accommodate Al Dhaid, Al Madam, Maliha, and Al Batayeh. The eastern region network encompasses Kalba, Khor Fakkan, and Dibba Al Hisn. The infrastructure is structured across three successive implementation phases. Phase one establishes vital transfer stations, primary treatment facilities, and engineered landfills. Phase two introduces specialised systems for processing municipal and industrial waste, paving the way for the third phase of total integration, ensuring strict environmental sustainability.
The collaboration underscores a major push toward environmental integration. Commenting on the agreement, H.E. Sultan Mohammed bin Huwaiden Al Ketbi stated: "Guided by the strategic vision of Sharjah’s leadership to enhance the emirate’s infrastructure and municipal services, signing this contract with BEEAH to establish an integrated, centralized complex in the Maghsa area of Al Dhaid City represents a pivotal strategic milestone in our efforts to complement our municipal offering efforts with the cutting-edge expertise of BEEAH." He further emphasised the long-term community benefits, adding: "The project will provide a state-of-the-art environmental engineering ecosystem that serves seven municipalities across the emirate, directly contributing to national sustainability agenda, enhancing the integrated waste management ecosystem, and ensuring a healthy and sustainable environment for future generations."
Advancing Toward a Zero-Waste Future
Echoing this sentiment, H.E. Sheikh Engineer Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Qasimi, Director of the Department of Municipalities Affairs, remarked: "This pioneering project reflects the department’s unwavering commitment to adopting the latest innovative engineering and environmental solutions in Sharjah. The development of such an integrated, centralized waste management complex in the Maghsa area of Al Dhaid City represents a fundamental transformation in our efforts to develop a collaborative municipal ecosystem, through the establishment of an advanced infrastructure that would serve municipalities across the central and eastern regions of the emirate." Highlighting the operational goals, he noted: "Our strategic partnership with BEEAH aims to facilitate the adoption of highest international standards and best practices in waste sorting, treatment, as well as safe and sustainable disposal. It will help us achieve tangible environmental and economic results, that contribute to enhancing quality of life and supporting our journey toward comprehensive sustainable development."
The project aligns perfectly with the emirate’s broader ecological ambitions. Khaled Al Huraimel articulated the significance of this expansion, stating: "We are proud to partner with the Department of Municipalities Affairs to advance Sharjah’s circular economy ambitions across the Central and Eastern regions. This project marks a significant milestone in delivering pioneering, sustainable waste management solutions for all municipalities in the emirate. Building on the 93% landfill diversion rate we have already achieved in Sharjah City, this project will accelerate progress towards a zero-waste-to-landfill future." Finally, Fahad Shehail, CEO – Environment at BEEAH, highlighted the technological mechanics driving these goals: "Using state-of-the-art technology to track material recovery rates and resource efficiency, the 430,000-square-metre integrated complex in Al Dhaid will serve seven municipalities through advanced recycling, waste-to-energy conversion, and material recovery. We are committed to advancing circular economy solutions that not only enhance the environment and elevate quality of life for societies but also supports Sharjah’s ambition to become the Middle East’s first zero-waste-to-landfill city."
Moving away from a focus solely on scale, the city is witnessing new launches and masterplans defined primarily by the exceptional calibre of the architects shaping them.
Five upcoming residential projects reshaping Dubai
Dubai's residential pipeline is entering one of its most considered phases in years.
Moving away from a focus solely on scale, the city is witnessing new launches and masterplans defined primarily by the exceptional calibre of the architects shaping them. From super-prime towers situated on the waterfront to expansive masterplans connected by public transit, the forthcoming years will introduce some of the most highly anticipated residential projects the emirate has seen. Together, these five distinct developments mark a significant shift, shaping exactly where and how Dubai will live next.
Wedyan, Dubai Canal
Positioned along the Dubai Canal in one of the city's most established waterfront locations, Wedyan stands as the debut residence of the Al Ghurair Collection. Soaring forty-six storeys, the tower will comprise one hundred and forty-nine residences. Buyers will find a mixture of three, four, and five-bedroom layouts, alongside two full-floor penthouses and a three-storey sky villa. The building's façade is defined by a layered, textured profile inspired by the movement of water and sand, representing the first UAE project by celebrated architect Kengo Kuma.
Furthermore, the building will provide more than sixty-five thousand square feet of amenity space distributed across distinct levels. These feature Japanese teahouse-inspired pavilions and deep-planted terraces realised in collaboration with Gustafson Porter + Bowman. Specialised glazing is incorporated to protect residents' artworks from UV rays. Situated minutes from Downtown Dubai and the international airport, Wedyan is expected to reach completion by 2030.
The Weave, Jumeirah Village Circle
Located within Jumeirah Village Circle, The Weave serves as the inaugural development under Al Ghurair Development's premium freehold portfolio. Demonstrating immense demand, its first phase has already sold out. The building is the creation of Australian architect Joe Adsett, marking his first Middle East project. Its façade draws inspiration from safafa, the traditional weaving of palm fronds, reinterpreted through sculptural balconies and angled lines.
Inside, residences range from approximately seven hundred to one thousand eight hundred square feet, with layouts designed to maximise space, light, and circulation. A rooftop club brings together a pool, jacuzzis, an ice bath, fitness studios, a private cinema, barbeque areas, and a social lounge. The Weave sits within reach of Circle Mall, Dubai Hills Mall, and Dubai Autodrome, centrally situated between the city's airports, with completion expected in 2028.
Upcoming Tower, Wadi Al Safa 3
Set near Al Barari and The Wilds, the upcoming residence in Wadi Al Safa 3 marks the first UAE residential project by Neri&Hu Design and Research Office. Founded in Shanghai, the acclaimed practice has been recognised with the Frame Lifetime Achievement Award. This residential tower will be complemented by dedicated amenity spaces, parking, and ground-level retail, with residences conceived to foster a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living. True to their design ethos, the architecture will explore the interplay of contrasting materials and textured surfaces, shaping how residents gather.
Upcoming Residence, Dubai South
In Dubai South, Al Ghurair Development has appointed Lisbon-based practice Aires Mateus for an upcoming premium residential development. Founded by brothers Manuel and Francisco Aires Mateus, this marks their first project in the UAE. The building offers one, two, and three-bedroom homes, including duplex residences. These are designed around the Aires Mateus philosophy that a home's quality is determined by spatial proportion, light, and the relationship between interior and exterior rather than decorative complexity. The development sits within a strategically positioned growth corridor near Al Maktoum International Airport.
A One-Million-Square-Foot Community in Al Jaddaf
Al Ghurair Development's most ambitious project to date is a one-million-square-foot transit-connected masterplan community in Al Jaddaf. It neighbours the planned HSR Etihad Station and the Creek Metro. The masterplan brings together residential, commercial, cultural, and hospitality spaces within a walkable, mixed-use district designed to support a five-minute-city lifestyle, where daily needs are accessible on foot. Designed by Pelli Clarke & Partners, the creators of the Petronas Towers and Salesforce Tower, this commission serves as the practice's first masterplan in Dubai.
Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), the largest industrial organisation in the United Arab Emirates outside the oil and gas sector, has officially inaugurated the nation’s largest aluminium recycling plant.
EGA inaugurates largest aluminium recycling plant in the UAE
Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), the largest industrial organisation in the United Arab Emirates outside the oil and gas sector, has officially inaugurated the nation’s largest aluminium recycling plant.
Located in Al Taweelah, this facility represents a vital milestone in EGA’s strategic expansion into low-carbon aluminium production and serves as a boost for the development of the UAE’s circular economy.
The inauguration ceremony welcomed dignitaries including Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, alongside Her Excellency Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi (EAD). Also in attendance were EGA’s Chairman Homaid Al Shimmari, Vice Chairman His Excellency Saeed Al Tayer, and various members of EGA’s Board and senior management.
During the event, Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak emphasised the broader implications:
“Recycling is the cornerstone of the UAE’s Circular Economy Policy which aims to transform the nation into a global hub for green development by shifting from linear to circular production and consumption, enhancing resource efficiency, and minimising waste. Aluminium represents one of our greatest opportunities to drive this transition from linear to circular model of production. It is infinitely recyclable, protecting our ecosystems while fuelling a sustainable, low-carbon economy. Recycling aluminium waste requires up to 95 per cent less energy compared to producing new primary aluminium from raw ore, saving significant energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”
She further added:
“Emirates Global Aluminium has been a pioneer of our nation’s industry for decades, and today, they are leading the charge as our national champion in aluminium recycling. I congratulate EGA on the strategic growth of its recycling business both here in the UAE and globally, proving that industrial leadership and climate action go hand in hand.”
Capacity and Production Details
The Al Taweelah plant has a production capacity of 185,000 tonnes per year. It processes post-consumer and some pre-consumer aluminium scrap, transforming it into low-carbon premium aluminium billets and T-bars, marketed as RevivAL. EGA also blends recycled metal with primary aluminium produced using solar power, marketed as CelestiAL-R, and with nuclear power, sold as MinimAL-R.
Historically, the majority of aluminium scrap generated within the UAE has been exported for processing outside the country. The Al Taweelah facility rectifies this by offering local capacity, positioning EGA as the largest consumer of aluminium scrap in the UAE.
Construction and Operational Timeline
Constructing the plant required four million hours of work, completed with zero injuries requiring time off. The project utilised more than 26,300 cubic metres of concrete—exceeding the volume of ten Olympic-size swimming pools—and over 4,600 metric tonnes of structural steel, equivalent to two-thirds of the iron weight of the Eiffel Tower.
Initial production commenced in February. However, final commissioning was paused following an Iranian attack on Khalifa Economic Zone Abu Dhabi on 28 March. Commissioning resumed during April, and recycled cast metal production recommenced in early May. The ramp-up to full production will take up to six months, dependent on scrap availability.
Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, stated:
“The inauguration of Al Taweelah recycling plant is a major milestone in EGA’s development of a global aluminium recycling business. This new plant turns aluminium waste generated in the UAE and elsewhere into new aluminium that makes modern life possible around the world. With this project, we have added a new industrial activity to EGA’s operations in the UAE, in line with Make it in the Emirates and the UAE’s Operation 300bn industrial growth strategy.”
Global Expansion
The plant is part of EGA’s global ambitions. Including a planned acquisition of an 80 per cent stake in Italian company Eco Green, EGA’s total recycling capacity exceeds 400,000 tonnes per year across the UAE, Europe, and the United States, with an additional 200,000 tonnes under development.
This follows acquisitions in Germany and the United States in 2024. EGA Leichtmetall in Germany is expanding more than six-fold, adding a second plant near Hannover with 150,000 tonnes of capacity, expected during 2028. In Minnesota, EGA Spectro Alloys completed a 65,000 tonnes expansion in 2025 and is developing a second phase to add a further 35,000 tonnes by 2027.
AJi Enters Syrian Market and signs a Strategic Collaboration Agreement with Damascus-based Tala Engineering Consulting and Project Management
AJi Enters Syrian market with Tala Engineering partnership
AJi has marked its official entry into the Syrian market as the Syrian construction industry steadily gathers momentum and prepares for comprehensive renewal
This strategic move was inaugurated with the company’s high-profile participation in BUILDEX 2026. Recognised as the 24th International Exhibition for Construction, the event was held over five days, from 10 to 14 June 2026 at the Damascus Fairground, Syria. The exhibition served as an ideal platform for AJi to demonstrate its capabilities and establish a robust local presence amidst a receptive regional audience.
Central to AJi’s strategic positioning within the Syrian market is the formalisation of a landmark partnership. During the exhibition, AJi signed a Strategic Collaboration Agreement with Tala Engineering Consulting and Project Management, a highly respected, Damascus-based Syrian consultancy firm. The formal agreement establishes a reliable framework for long-term cooperation between the entities. Their joint objective is to pursue and execute engineering consultancy, design, supervision, and project management opportunities across Syria. The alliance successfully combines AJi’s international expertise with Tala Engineering’s profound local market knowledge and intricate understanding of regional regulatory capabilities.
The scope of this collaborative endeavour is deliberately broad and ambitious, designed to meet the multi-faceted demands of a nation undergoing rapid transformation. The partnership will actively target major opportunities across a diverse range of critical sectors. These include foundational infrastructure, advanced healthcare facilities, modern urban development, hospitality, vital transportation networks, extensive industrial zones, and large-scale public sector projects.
The sheer scale of the opportunity and the necessity for strategic alliances are underscored by macroeconomic data. According to the World Bank’s latest assessment, Syria’s overarching reconstruction needs are estimated at US$216 billion. Within this figure, approximately US$82 billion is required for the restoration and development of essential infrastructure. This includes the revitalisation of critical power grids, the rebuilding of extensive road networks, and the modernisation of water distribution systems. A financial and logistical undertaking of this immense magnitude undeniably calls for highly coordinated, collaborative participation from both international industry leaders and local experts.
Commenting on the significance and vision of the newly forged partnership, Eng. Hamzeh Awwad, CEO of AJi Group, stated: "Syria today is one of the most promising markets in the region, and what is being rebuilt here is more than infrastructure, it is the foundation of urban life for generations to come. At AJi, we believe reconstruction must be done right the first time, sustainably, with liveable, people-centred cities at its heart. No single firm or sector can deliver a national rebuild of this scale alone. All industries from engineering, construction, finance, energy, and technology must come together in support of Syria's reconstruction plan. Our agreement with Tala Engineering reflects exactly that spirit, international expertise and local knowledge working hand in hand to help shape a sustainable future for Syria."
The formal signing of this agreement has occurred at a decidedly pivotal moment for the country's economic trajectory. Following the easing of international sanctions and renewed, proactive engagement from Gulf, European, and global partners, the landscape of the Syrian market is being rapidly reshaped. Large-scale capital projects in transportation, energy production, urban development, and modern industrial zones are emerging swiftly. This influx of activity is driving an accelerating demand for high-level engineering expertise, cutting-edge construction technology, and sophisticated project management capabilities that joint ventures like AJi and Tala Engineering are uniquely positioned to provide.
AJi has successfully reaffirmed its definitive, long-term commitment to the Syrian market through its prominent presence at BUILDEX 2026 and the establishment of its strategic new partnership with Tala Engineering Consulting and Project Management. By pooling global insights with deep-rooted domestic experience, both organisations are preparing to tackle the complex engineering challenges ahead. The firm stands ready to support and guide the country's ongoing journey toward a resilient, sustainable recovery and holistic national development.