In The Spotlight
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.
Emirates is advancing inflight sustainability through its closed-loop recycling programme. (Image source: Emirates)
Emirates inflight sustainability and closed loop recycling programme
Emirates has successfully repurposed over 88,000 kg of plastic from its Economy Class meal services into new onboard products, marking a significant milestone in its closed-loop recycling programme.
The airline is committed to environmental stewardship and has invested approximately US$13.6mn in transitioning to a closed-loop manufacturing model for inflight dining serviceware. Damaged trays, bowls, and snack dishes are collected in Dubai, cleaned, and processed into new items containing up to 25% recycled material. These are then reintroduced onto thousands of flights, supporting circular economy principles and reducing landfill waste. The initiative is delivered alongside deSter, an aviation serviceware provider holding a 'Gold' sustainability rating from Ecovadis. The recycling facility itself employs sustainable design, utilising solar power and efficient water management.
Beyond serviceware, Emirates is reducing its environmental footprint across the cabin. First Class mattress toppers and blankets now use reusable bags made from recycled polyester instead of plastic packaging. Headset packaging across all classes is made from 100% recycled low-density polyethylene. Children's plush toys and bags incorporate at least 50% recycled content , and unnecessary plastic wrapping has been removed.
Amenity kits across cabins feature bio-based materials, kraft paper, and recycled post-consumer polyester. Economy and Premium Economy fleece blankets are now crafted from recycled polyester, with each blanket using the equivalent of 28 recycled plastic bottles. First and Business Class passengers are provided loungewear made from breathable modal fabric sourced from certified botanic fibres , alongside organic skincare products sustainably harvested in Ireland.
Plastic straws have been entirely phased out in favour of paper alternatives , and menus are printed on responsibly sourced paper. Highlighting the natural world, the airline's inflight entertainment is also featuring 100 episodes of acclaimed BBC Earth documentaries narrated by Sir David Attenborough throughout June and July.
This ambitious pilot farm will feature a concentrated cluster of six highly advanced wind turbine generators.
Oman’s O-Green to Pioneer 58 MW Wind Power Pilot in Duqm
Omani state-backed integrated clean energy platform, O-Green, is advancing a pilot wind farm in the Duqm Special Economic Zone (SEZ). Formally named the Duqm North and South Wind Project (DNSWP), the development will feature a cluster of six wind turbine generators with a total installed capacity of 58 MW
Founded recently in 2025 as a strategic partnership between OQ Alternative Energy—a subsidiary of the OQ Group—and the state-owned enterprise Naqaa Sustainable Energy, O-Green is rapidly establishing itself as a regional powerhouse. The company is currently advancing a landmark initiative situated within the Duqm Special Economic Zone (SEZ), formally titled the Duqm North and South Wind Project (DNSWP).
This ambitious pilot farm will feature a concentrated cluster of six highly advanced wind turbine generators, ultimately delivering a total installed capacity of 58 megawatts (MW). What makes this development particularly noteworthy is the sheer scale of the hardware; each individual turbine will boast a capacity of 9.6 MW, officially making them the largest individual turbines of their specific kind currently deployed anywhere in the Middle East. Strategically planned for deployment across two distinct sites within the SEZ, the DNSWP is projected to generate an impressive 190 gigawatt-hours of electricity on an annual basis.
Crucially, the power generated by these massive turbines has a dedicated and innovative purpose. The 190 gigawatt-hours of clean electricity will directly contribute to the decarbonisation of a brand-new wind turbine manufacturing plant, which O-Green is also currently developing within the Duqm area. This manufacturing facility represents a first-of-its-kind endeavour in the Sultanate. Currently in the early stages of its development, Phase 1 of this facility will specifically focus on producing multi-megawatt-class turbines. To achieve this, O-Green is utilising cutting-edge technology licensed from Shanghai Electric Group, widely recognised as a major player in China's burgeoning clean energy equipment manufacturing sector.
Beyond the Duqm pilot, O-Green is aggressively expanding its domestic portfolio. A standout initiative currently under implementation is a monumental 2.7 GW round-the-clock renewable energy mega-project, which seamlessly integrates solar, wind, and battery energy storage systems across Duqm and Mahout. Securing the commercial viability of this massive undertaking, O-Green recently signed a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the Nama Power and Water Procurement Company (PWP), the sole buyer of power and water in Oman. Furthermore, O-Green has partnered strategically with the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (Madayn) to implement a 93 MW solar power plant in Suhar Industrial City. Slated to commence commercial operations this September, it will supply vital clean energy to more than 200 industrial facilities.
O-Green's vision is not confined to the Arabian Peninsula. On the African continent, a bilateral partnership with the Botswana Power Corporation is driving the development of a 500 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) plant in Maun. This project serves as a foundational step in a broader cooperative initiative targeting up to 3,000 MW of combined capacity in the future. Concurrently, O-Green is targeting the future of digital infrastructure, focusing on the creation of AI-enabled, cloud, and hyperscale data centres in both Oman and Europe, all powered by dependable and competitively priced renewable energy.
These diverse projects are all integral components of O-Green’s expansive global portfolio, which aims to exceed 11 GW of solar and wind generation capacity, alongside 4.5 gigawatt-hours of battery energy storage. With more than 3.3 GW of generation and 2.4 gigawatt-hours of storage already successfully secured, the company is demonstrating a formidable commitment to the global energy transition.
Abu Dhabi Department of Energy hosted the third Water and Energy Majlis on 5 June 2026.
Abu Dhabi launches new water and energy resilience framework
Without water and power, the machinery of modern civilisation halts. As global conditions grow increasingly volatile, safeguarding these essential utilities demands proactive, intelligent adaptation
Addressing this imperative, the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy hosted the third Water and Energy Majlis on 5 June 2026, operating under the theme 'From National Readiness to Smart Resilience'.
Serving as a precursor to the Abu Dhabi Water & Power Week, the summit marked the official launch of the pioneering Abu Dhabi Water and Energy Resilience Framework. Constructed upon three pillars—infrastructure, human capital and governance, and technology and innovation—the strategy outlines 15 core measures. These protocols aim to guarantee supply security, enhance emergency preparedness, diversify resources, and deploy centralised assets to meet fluctuating demands.
The majlis attracted ministers and corporate leaders from over thirty countries to discuss hardening utility networks against future shocks. Delegates explored avenues for enhanced disaster readiness, digital crisis response, and building a cooperative regional roadmap based on the United Arab Emirates’ expertise.
During a paramount dialogue, H.E. Dr. Abdulla Humaid Al Jarwan, chairman of the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, highlighted the pressing need for integrated regional systems and a shared regulatory foundation. Emphasising this immense responsibility, he stated:
“The water and energy sectors are vital pillars of the national security system, and safeguarding them is the responsibility of every official and decision-maker. What we have witnessed recently has been a practical demonstration of the efficiency and resilience of our infrastructure and a test of our ability to protect our national resources. The efforts we are advancing today reflect Abu Dhabi’s ambitions and the vision of its wise leadership to ensure the prosperity of our communities, protect the future of our children, enable economic growth, and safeguard the stability of our nations.”
His Excellency added: “today, we stand at a pivotal moment for the water and energy sectors. We have come together to help shape their future by strengthening partnerships, aligning efforts, and expanding cooperation at both the national and regional levels. More than ever, we must work towards shared goals, guided by a common vision and clear priorities, to safeguard our collective resources and build a resilient, interconnected framework that strengthens systems, supports collaboration, and enhances our ability to respond effectively to any crisis.”
Providing a crucial perspective on environmental stewardship, H.E. Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, the UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, engaged in the high-level talks. She stated:
“In the UAE, we view water, energy, and food security as an interconnected resilience system. Our national strategies integrate these sectors into a single developmental pathway, aligned with our ambitious target to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Within this framework, we are enhancing local food production by deploying climate-smart agricultural technologies that maximise water and energy efficiency while minimising our carbon footprint. We are equally committed to transforming the entire food value chain to be more efficient and sustainable.
“To secure our water future, we are pursuing the ambitious goals of the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036. This includes optimising water and energy demand through sustainable desalination, particularly through the widespread adoption of advanced reverse osmosis systems. On the global stage, the UAE is fostering international cooperation to address water scarcity, as demonstrated by the launch of the Mohamed bin Zayed Water Initiative (MBZI). This December we will convene global players to the UN Water Conference in Abu Dhabi, which we are hosting in partnership with Senegal. We aim to transform global water challenges into collaborative opportunities, treating water as a shared global resource.”
Her Excellency added: “Our resilience model extends beyond infrastructure; its strategic core is rooted in the community. Empowering individuals as active partners is essential to fostering a conscious, responsible approach to environmental challenges. In parallel, we are accelerating our transition towards a circular economy driven by innovation. By powering water production with clean energy, optimising its use in agriculture, and scaling up water recycling, we are building a sustainable development model that protects our environment, strengthens national resilience, and ensures prosperity for generations to come.”
Further enriching the discussion, H.E. Dr. Abdulla Ahmed Al Mandous, president of the World Meteorological Organization and director general of the National Center of Meteorology, asserted that securing resources is fundamentally tied to precise atmospheric tracking. He explained how the UAE’s early warning systems, bolstered by global data exchange and radar integration, shield critical infrastructure from severe weather. Furthermore, he detailed the incorporation of artificial intelligence into forecasting models and the deployment of cloud-seeding techniques to augment water reserves.
The summit concluded with a commitment to establish specialised task forces. By maintaining strategic collaboration, Abu Dhabi and its regional partners are actively securing operational dependability and supply stability for the future.
Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation PJSC (Empower) has inaugurated an advanced Command Control Centre (CCC) at its new headquarters in Dubai.
Empower advances district cooling with new AI-driven command control centre
Emirates Central Cooling Systems Corporation PJSC (Empower) has inaugurated an advanced Command Control Centre (CCC) at its new headquarters in Dubai, revealing that the district cooling provider is leading regional efforts to implement digital transformation initiatives and advanced industrial technologies
The launch represents a key component of the company's technological ecosystem, designed to support round-the-clock operations and ensure an impressive 99.99% network reliability. Findings from the inauguration indicate that Empower is moving beyond traditional management, with a growing focus on deploying digital technologies at scale to improve operational performance across the emirate.
According to the announcement, the new facility reinforces Empower’s pioneering position in adopting smart systems. This commitment is reflected in its operational priorities, heavily utilising advanced predictive capabilities that identify potential malfunctions before they occur, thereby minimising unplanned downtime and enhancing service reliability for customers.
“The new Command Control Centre represents a significant step forward in Empower’s journey towards establishing a smarter, more efficient and flexible operating model that keeps pace with the rapidly increasing demand for district cooling services in Dubai. The centre reflects the company’s commitment to employing the latest digital solutions and smart systems in managing its operations, enhancing real-time monitoring capabilities, improving response efficiency, and supporting service continuity in line with the highest standards of reliability and dependability. This step is an extension of Empower’s approach to strategic investment in digital infrastructure, ensuring network readiness and operational efficiency, while further strengthening its network reliability, which has reached 99.99%.” said H.E. Ahmad Bin Shafar.
AI drives operational transformation
Artificial intelligence continues to play a central role in the company's operational evolution. The centre operates through an integrated platform leveraging advanced artificial intelligence (AI), big data analytics, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies.
Rather than being limited to isolated applications, these technologies are seamlessly integrated into Empower’s various operational technology environments, including energy management systems, SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, and security and safety networks. Operators are using these systems to provide a comprehensive, real-time view of all processes, monitoring and managing plants across Dubai 24x7 through interactive screens that deliver accurate data and enable faster responses to operational changes.
“The centre provides an integrated operational system that supports proactive, data-driven decision-making, enables the prediction of operational challenges before they occur, reduces unplanned outages, and improves energy efficiency, positively impacting both organisational performance and environmental sustainability. At Empower, we continue to embrace innovation as a fundamental pillar in advancing our operations and enhancing our ability to meet the needs of our customers and major urban development projects in the emirate, thereby increasing customer satisfaction and supporting Dubai’s journey towards greater sustainability and global leadership in district cooling,” added Bin Shafar.
Sustainability and innovation remain priorities
As digital adoption accelerates, Empower is prioritising technologies capable of delivering measurable environmental and business outcomes. Advanced analytical dashboards are actively supporting strategic decision-making, allowing management to monitor key performance indicators and analyse operational trends. Furthermore, the proactive nature of the centre contributes directly to improved energy efficiency and reduced carbon emissions, keeping the organisation firmly aligned with the UAE’s sustainability goals.
The Command Control Centre represents a significant addition to the broader portfolio of advanced technologies embedded across Empower's operations. As the sector becomes increasingly advanced, Empower is expanding its use of automated digital systems, smart metering, operational databases, and thermal energy storage (TES) solutions across its 90 plants, highlighting a clear strategic intent to future-proof its industrial infrastructure.
Middle East dominates industrial AI shift. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Is the Middle East redefining smart manufacturing today?
Rockwell Automation has released the Middle East results of its 11th annual State of Smart Manufacturing Report, revealing that manufacturers across the region are leading global efforts to implement digital transformation initiatives and advanced industrial technologies
The report draws on research conducted with manufacturing executives worldwide, including a representative sample from the Middle East. Findings indicate that manufacturers in the region are moving beyond planning and experimentation, with a growing focus on deploying digital technologies at scale to improve operational performance.
According to the study, the Middle East has emerged as the world's most committed region when it comes to digital transformation. Nearly all respondents, 98%, consider digital transformation essential to their business, placing the region ahead of Europe, the United States and the global average. This commitment is reflected in spending priorities, with manufacturers dedicating close to 30% of their operating budgets to industrial technology investments.
“Manufacturers in the Middle East are not just adopting digital technologies, they are scaling them at pace,” said Ediz Eren, regional vice-president, Middle East, Africa and Türkiye, Rockwell Automation.
“What sets the region apart is the combination of strong investment, clear strategic intent and a willingness to embed advanced technologies directly into operational environments.”
AI drives industrial transformation
Artificial intelligence continues to play a central role in the region’s manufacturing evolution. The report shows that AI adoption has reached near-universal levels, with almost every manufacturer either already using AI technologies or planning to do so. Generative AI has also gained widespread acceptance, becoming integrated across industrial operations throughout the region.
Rather than being limited to experimental applications, AI is increasingly being incorporated into operational technology environments. Manufacturers are using it to enhance quality management, strengthen cybersecurity measures and optimise production processes.
The study found that organisations are prioritising technologies capable of delivering measurable business outcomes. AI and machine learning were identified as the technologies generating the highest return on investment, reinforcing the region’s focus on practical and performance-driven digital transformation strategies.
Workforce and cyber security remain priorities
As digital adoption accelerates, manufacturers are facing new organisational challenges. Workforce readiness has become a major concern, with change management emerging as the leading challenge as companies introduce advanced technologies throughout their operations.
To address these issues, manufacturers are expanding reskilling initiatives and increasing efforts to recruit employees with expertise in digital technologies and artificial intelligence. The report highlights a growing recognition that future manufacturing competitiveness will depend heavily on workforce capabilities.
Cybersecurity continues to rank among the highest priorities for industrial organisations. As operational environments become more connected, manufacturers are investing heavily in protecting digital systems while managing the risks associated with increased connectivity.
The report also highlights growing interest in simulation technologies such as digital twins. Adoption plans in the Middle East exceed those seen in other regions, with many organisations preparing to invest in these technologies over the coming year. Digital twins are increasingly being used to model production environments, test operational changes and improve efficiency before implementation.
Despite strong progress in digitalisation, the research indicates that many manufacturers still struggle to maximise the value of their operational data. While significant volumes of data are being collected, a substantial proportion remains underutilised, highlighting the need for stronger data-driven decision-making capabilities.
Overall, the findings suggest that manufacturers in the Middle East are pursuing a distinctive approach to digital transformation characterised by significant investment, widespread technology adoption and a strong emphasis on operational outcomes. The report concludes that the region is not only keeping pace with global manufacturing trends but is increasingly helping shape the future direction of industrial transformation.
The State of Smart Manufacturing Report captures perspectives from manufacturing leaders across a range of sectors, including automotive, life sciences, consumer goods and industrial manufacturing. The research examines how organisations are adopting technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity solutions, digital twins and workforce development strategies as they respond to growing operational complexity and competitive pressures.
Aluminium Bahrain plans to acquire Aluminium Dunkerque, strengthening its global low-carbon aluminium strategy and European presence. (Image source: Alba)
Alba advances acquisition of Aluminium Dunkerque facility
Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba) has announced plans to acquire Aluminium Dunkerque, the European Union’s largest aluminium smelter, in a deal valued at around US$2.2bn
The proposed transaction forms part of Alba’s ambition to establish a global low-carbon aluminium platform and was announced alongside current owner American Industrial Partners (AIP) and French public investment bank Bpifrance, which is set to become a minority shareholder in the business.
Following completion of the transaction, Alba will take full ownership of Aluminium Dunkerque through a deal valued at around US$2.2bn. The acquisition will be financed entirely through a consortium of Alba’s banking partners. Under the terms of the MoU, Bpifrance will invest €100mn in the transaction, securing a 6% shareholding in Aluminium Dunkerque, subject to the necessary regulatory and customary approvals. The investment bank will also be represented on the board of the smelter’s holding company.
The participation of Bpifrance as a minority shareholder and board member is intended to reinforce Aluminium Dunkerque’s strategic role within France’s industrial sector while strengthening its regional presence.
His Excellency Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa said the agreement reflects the strong economic relationship between Bahrain and France while highlighting the confidence global investors continue to place in Bahrain. He noted that the deal further reinforces the Kingdom’s position as a competitive industrial centre with the talent and capabilities required to pursue opportunities internationally.
Khalid Amro Al-Rumaihi, chairman of Alba’s board of directors, emphasised the importance of Aluminium Dunkerque as a strategic French industrial asset. He described the acquisition as a significant milestone for Alba, demonstrating confidence in the company’s future growth potential while supporting the development of a more diversified and internationally competitive industrial platform. He added that the transaction creates opportunities to strengthen industrial resilience in both Bahrain and France while deepening economic and industrial cooperation between the two countries.
"Alongside Alba, Bpifrance’s investment in Aluminium Dunkerque underscores our commitment to securing and reinforcing the long-term future of this strategic industrial site. By joining forces, we are not only supporting the growth of a key player in the European aluminium sector but also ensuring that Aluminium Dunkerque remains a cornerstone of France’s industrial resilience and innovation. Together, we will work to strengthen the site’s industrial project, fostering sustainable development and competitiveness for years to come," remarked Nicolas Dufourcq, CEO at Bpifrance.
“We are pleased to mark an important step in the transition of Aluminium Dunkerque’s ownership to Aluminium Bahrain. Over the past four months, the process has advanced smoothly as expected thanks to the constructive work among all parties and a shared commitment to responsible execution. We remain confident that Alba is the right long-term owner for Aluminium Dunkerque and will be a strong partner for France in supporting the company’s continued development and strategic role in Europe. Aluminium Dunkerque’s success during our ownership reflects France’s enduring attractiveness as a destination for long-term industrial investment, supported by its strong industrial base, skilled workforce and commitment to decarbonisation,” concluded Dino Cusumano, general partner at AIP.
Based in Loon-Plage near Dunkerque, the facility has an annual production capacity of approximately 300,000 tonnes of aluminium. Supported by advanced automation systems, integrated operations and a skilled workforce, the smelter is well positioned to meet rising demand across Europe for low-carbon and sustainably produced aluminium.