In The Spotlight
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has channelled more than AED 10 billion—equivalent to US$2.72bn—into comprehensive electricity transmission network projects.
DEWA powers Dubai’s future with US$2.72bn grid expansion
Dubai’s skyline is synonymous with boundless ambition and rapid urban evolution.
Behind the gleaming architecture and the sprawling metropolitan landscape lies a complex, unseen heartbeat: an electrical grid that must continuously adapt to power one of the world’s most dynamic cities. As Dubai steadily marches toward a more sustainable future while maintaining its rapid pace of economic expansion, the absolute necessity for a resilient and robust power infrastructure has never been more paramount.
Rising to this formidable challenge, the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has channelled more than AED 10 billion—equivalent to US$2.72bn—into comprehensive electricity transmission network projects. This capital injection reinforces the emirate's energy grid, ensuring it remains capable of accommodating surging power consumption driven by industrial growth, residential communities, and the clean energy transition.
The scale of this investment underscores a proactive approach to urban management. The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of DEWA, Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, recently shed light on the authority’s extensive infrastructural accomplishments achieved during the initial six months of 2026. The utility successfully commissioned eight new 132-kilovolt (kV) transmission substations within this timeframe. Together, these state-of-the-art facilities provide a substantial combined conversion capacity of 1,200 megavolt-amperes (MVA). This meticulous undertaking also encompassed the successful laying of 20 kilometres of crucial transmission cables, carrying an estimated cost of AED 970 million.
The strategic vision propelling these massive engineering feats is firmly rooted in the broader economic and social frameworks established by Dubai’s visionary leadership. Articulating this foundational philosophy, Al Tayer stated: "In line with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai Social Agenda 33, we are committed to meeting current and future requirements, keeping pace with growing electricity demand and expanding our infrastructure,"
Beyond the standard municipal substations, DEWA has also made significant strides in its renewable energy integration. The utility commissioned a 400/132kV transmission substation at Saih Al Dahal, located within the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park. This particular project represents an investment of AED 630 million and boasts a staggering total conversion capacity of 2,000 MVA. To seamlessly connect this solar powerhouse to the main grid, engineers constructed 117 kilometres of 400kV overhead transmission lines. Such endeavours are not achieved lightly; these collective infrastructural projects demanded more than nine million intensive working hours, executed under the highest international standards of reliability and safety.
Looking ahead, DEWA’s developmental blueprint for the immediate future reveals an unyielding momentum. Currently, the authority is actively overseeing the construction of an additional 65 fresh 132kV substations, alongside one major 400kV substation. Over the coming three years, this pipeline of development is poised to expand even further. The utility intends to formally solicit bids for more than 30 supplementary 132kV substations. Furthermore, engineers will lay down an astonishing 340 kilometres of underground transmission cables and erect two further 400kV substations, creating a dense web of power resilience across the entire emirate.
Hussain Lootah, DEWA’s Executive Vice President of Transmission Power, highlighted the immediate community benefits of these recently activated substations. The newly integrated facilities are strategically positioned to serve multiple rapidly developing zones throughout Dubai. Key districts benefiting from this enhanced power stability include Madinat Hind 4, Al Khairan First, Al Layan First, Nad Al Sheba First, the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Gardens, Al Barsha South Fourth, Me’aisem Second, and Al Manara.
This deliberate placement ensures that residential and commercial consumers alike experience absolute grid stability without sudden disruption. By the close of the first half of 2026, DEWA officially operated a staggering 402 transmission substations across the grid. This impressive portfolio now comprises 28 major facilities operating at the high-capacity 400kV level, and 374 substations functioning at the 132kV tier.
The volume of ongoing developmental work is further evidenced by the contracts granted in the first six months of the year alone. DEWA officially awarded 21 distinct contracts for new 132kV substations distributed across vital districts, including Al Jaddaf, Jebel Ali, Airport City, and Umm Suqeim. Additionally, contracts were finalised to install 64 kilometres of transmission cables to link these new substations. These newly awarded contracts carry an aggregate value of roughly AED 3 billion.
The Artificial Intelligence Journalism for Research and Forecasting (AIJRF) has officially launched the first phase of its highly anticipated AI-Powered Government Communications Initiative (AIGC).
AIJRF launches AI government communications programme in Arab nations
The Artificial Intelligence Journalism for Research and Forecasting (AIJRF) has officially launched the first phase of its highly anticipated AI-Powered Government Communications Initiative (AIGC).
This pioneering programme has been meticulously designed to overhaul how public institutions manage their messaging, bringing together 100 prominent government communication officials, directors, and sector specialists representing 19 Arab countries.
Founded in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, in 2018 by a dedicated group of professors and researchers specialising in media studies, artificial intelligence, the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and the humanities, the AIJRF is positioning the AIGC as a cornerstone of digital transformation across Arab government institutions. The primary objective is to thoroughly equip government communication leaders and professionals with the necessary skills to utilise advanced technology, specifically Agentic AI, to develop their operations and fundamentally improve institutional decision-making.
The ambition of the newly launched programme is substantial. Dr Mohamed Abdulzaher, the Chief Executive Officer of the AIJRF, has outlined a comprehensive multi-year roadmap for the initiative. The overarching goal is to systematically train and qualify 3,000 government communication officials and directors over the next three years, extending through to 2028. Furthermore, the initiative seeks to establish a permanent footprint in more than 1,000 Arab government institutions and public entities by directly engaging with their government communication, corporate communication, and digital media departments.
The Integration of Agentic AI
A central pillar of the AIGC programme is the deployment and integration of autonomous and semi-autonomous AI systems. Speaking at the opening of the initiative’s first training programme, Dr Abdulzaher clearly defined the strategic direction of the foundation’s efforts.
“Through this initiative, we are working to strengthen the integration and use of Agentic AI tools across all stages of government communication and improve access to target audiences,” he stated.
This integration represents a significant shift from conventional media strategies to data-driven, automated government communication systems. The training programme is thoughtfully structured to help participants convert modern tools and technologies into highly applicable solutions. These solutions span crucial areas such as proactive media planning, dynamic content management, real-time monitoring, public engagement, and the highly sensitive management of critical situations and crises.
As artificial intelligence becomes an indispensable asset, the professional requirements for public sector communicators are rapidly evolving. It is no longer sufficient to merely draft press releases or manage social media channels; today's professionals must be adept at navigating complex technological ecosystems. Alongside traditional communication skills, professionals are increasingly required to analyse data, manage AI tools, supervise AI agents, verify outputs, assess risks, and make communication decisions based strictly on evidence and performance indicators.
Establishing the AIGC-Net
To ensure the long-term sustainability and collaborative growth of this digital transition, the AIJRF utilised the launch of the first cohort—which prominently featured officials from the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, to announce the establishment of a specialised regional body. The Arab Network for AI-Powered Government Communication Officials (AIGC-Net) is the first dedicated network of its kind aimed at integrating advanced technologies into public sector messaging.
AIGC-Net will function as a vital professional platform, seeking to develop robust government communication systems across Arab institutions. It will achieve this by aggressively expanding the use of generative and Agentic AI, big-data analytics, intelligent automation, extended reality, metaverse technologies, advanced monitoring systems, and strategic foresight tools. By harnessing these technologies, the network expects to drastically improve government communication efficiency, accelerate public response times, enhance multilingual content production, and strengthen overall public engagement.
Moreover, AIGC-Net is tasked with collecting and comprehensively documenting information regarding government communication departments, officials, and regional experts. Members of the network will be provided with a sustainable, professional environment offering continually updated training programmes, bespoke advisory services, specialised analytical reports, and unmatched networking opportunities. Ultimately, the AIGC and its associated network represent a monumental leap forward in building future-proof, data-driven government communication systems throughout the Arab world.
The Syrian Ministry of Tourism has officially embarked on a sweeping, ambitious digital overhaul, securing a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with three prominent technology enterprises from Saudi Arabia.
Syria’s tourism ministry inks Saudi tech MoU
The Syrian Ministry of Tourism has officially embarked on a sweeping, ambitious digital overhaul, securing a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with three prominent technology enterprises from Saudi Arabia.
This landmark collaboration with industry leaders Tamkeen, Cipher, and Hawaz is specifically designed to fast-track the technological evolution of Syria’s tourism landscape. Representing a major, transformative step in the Ministry’s long-term digital strategy, the agreement strategically moves far beyond basic administrative modernisation. Instead, it paves the clear way for a fully integrated digital operating model that will fundamentally reshape the tourism sector and greatly enhance the overall visitor experience.
Pioneering a Unified Digital Ecosystem
At the heart of this international partnership lies the ambitious goal of creating a unified digital platform dedicated to tourism services and seamless bookings. To complement this, the authorities will launch a national digital tourism portal. This comprehensive gateway will provide prospective travellers with vital information concerning destinations, cultural attractions, and events across Syria.
By harnessing the technical prowess of these Saudi firms, the Syrian government intends to revitalise its tourism economy, making the nation's rich heritage more accessible to regional and international markets. Mazen Al-Salhani, the Minister of Tourism, captured the essence of this initiative: “Digital transformation is not simply a technology project—it is a strategic pillar of rebuilding a more competitive, resilient and future-ready tourism sector.” This vision positions emerging technologies as the primary enablers of service innovation and destination competitiveness.
Strengthening Cybersecurity and Data Governance
A transformation of this magnitude necessitates a fortified digital infrastructure. Consequently, the newly signed agreement places a heavy emphasis on strengthening cybersecurity capabilities across the Syrian tourism sector. The Saudi technology trio will play a pivotal role in implementing robust data governance frameworks to ensure all digital operations remain secure.
Furthermore, the partnership involves the development of advanced data collection and analytics systems. By adopting these sophisticated tools, the Ministry of Tourism can guarantee that future policymaking and long-term sector planning are driven by concrete, evidence-based research. Signed formally in Damascus, in the presence of the Minister of Tourism and members of the Syrian-Saudi Business Council, this MoU highlights the growing necessity of public-private partnerships. Such collaborations are essential for executing large-scale digital initiatives that modernise public services and expand the digital economy.
Leveraging International Expertise
Tamkeen, Cipher, and Hawaz bring a wealth of specialised knowledge to this Syrian initiative. Their combined expertise covers digital transformation, government technology, cybersecurity protocols, and institutional modernisation. Crucially, these companies possess extensive experience in supporting digital initiatives that closely align with the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
The Syrian Ministry of Tourism intends to fully leverage this vast experience. By integrating international best practices in digital governance, operational excellence, and user-centric service design, the Ministry aims to cultivate a highly competitive operating environment. This initiative represents a sector-specific milestone within Syria’s broader nationwide digital agenda. It embeds advanced digital capabilities across the entire value chain of the tourism industry, ranging from fundamental government services and destination management to visitor engagement and the facilitation of new investments.
Equipping the Workforce for a Digital Future
Beyond the implementation of software platforms, the programme recognises that human capital is the true engine of sustainable growth. Therefore, specialised capacity-building programmes form a vital component of the overarching agreement. These targeted educational initiatives are explicitly designed to equip Syrian tourism professionals with the critical skills required to operate within an increasingly digital tourism economy.
In tandem with these training programmes, the partnership will also launch dynamic destination marketing initiatives strategically aimed at capturing regional and international markets. By combining a technologically fluent workforce with an integrated digital ecosystem, the Syrian Ministry of Tourism is taking a definitive stride toward an innovation-led future. This strategy ensures the nation remains a resilient, highly competitive destination on the global tourism map for decades to come.
Iraq has successfully secured a series of landmark energy agreements with the United States.
Iraq secures US$200bn in US energy deals
Iraq has successfully secured a series of landmark energy agreements with the United States.
During a highly significant diplomatic visit to Washington by Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi, the Iraqi government cemented deals estimated to be worth US$200bn. These comprehensive contracts are set to revitalise the country’s foundational oil and gas industries. According to Iraqi Oil Minister Bassem Mohammed Khudair, who detailed the outcomes of the talks, this massive injection of capital will serve as the cornerstone of Iraq's strategic vision. The scale of this international commitment underscores a renewed focus on expanding a sector that remains the lifeblood of the Iraqi economy. This historic bilateral alignment is expected to reshape the trajectory of the nation's economic recovery.
Expanding Production and International Co-operation
The newly minted partnership encompasses seven key agreements designed to upgrade Iraq's extraction and processing capabilities. Minister Khudair noted that these deals will substantially increase the nation's oil and gas reserves while boosting day-to-day production. At present, Iraq’s total oil production capacity has already surpassed 4.8 million barrels per day. The administration views this capacity as a robust foundation upon which the new US agreements will build.
Furthermore, Iraqi oil fields are already a hub of global enterprise, with 22 international companies currently operating within the country. The presence of these foreign entities demonstrates the vast, untapped potential still present within the region. The integration of the Washington-backed agreements will harmonise with these operations, creating a more dynamic extraction environment. By expanding capacity through these frameworks, Iraq aims to solidify its position as a global energy supplier.
Advancing Towards Domestic Self-Sufficiency
While exports remain a primary focus, the government is equally dedicated to fulfilling domestic energy requirements. Minister Khudair highlighted that Iraq is firmly on track to achieve complete self-sufficiency in natural gas by the year 2030. This ambitious target represents a critical shift for the nation, which has historically faced complexities in capturing its own gas resources.
Remarkable progress has already been recorded in other areas. Iraq has successfully achieved full self-sufficiency in the provision of gas oil, commonly known as diesel, and kerosene. Additionally, domestic facilities are generating approximately 30 million litres of gasoline daily to meet local demand. However, the minister acknowledged that the journey is not without hurdles. Despite the impressive production figures, persistent challenges remain within the country’s fuel distribution mechanisms. Addressing these logistical distribution roadblocks is essential to ensure that this newly harnessed energy reliably reaches consumers across all provinces.
Catalysing Socio-Economic Growth
Beyond the immediate metrics of barrels and litres, the US$200bn investment strategy is heavily oriented towards generating tangible benefits for the Iraqi populace. The government anticipates that the revitalisation of the energy sector will serve as a massive engine for job creation, offering new employment avenues for a growing workforce.
These contracts are also structured to deliver broader social benefits that extend into the educational sphere. Notably, the agreements include provisions for scholarship opportunities, linking industrial growth directly with human capital development. By investing in education, Iraq is laying the groundwork for a future where its own professionals can lead the management of the nation's infrastructure.
Navigating OPEC Quotas and Looking Ahead
As production capacities expand, the Iraqi government is simultaneously addressing the diplomatic complexities of global oil markets. Minister Khudair revealed that officials are engaged in serious and constructive dialogue with the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). The primary objective of these talks is to negotiate an increase in the country’s official oil export quota, allowing Iraq to capitalise on its enhanced capabilities.
Addressing the historical context of these negotiations, the oil minister was explicit about the nation's stance. "The government remains committed to securing the export share Iraq deserves, while taking into account the exceptional circumstances the country has endured as a result of wars and the destruction of its infrastructure," he said. Through massive international investment and assertive diplomacy, Iraq is charting a highly resilient energy future.
Oman is firmly accelerating its national development trajectory by driving forward a comprehensive road infrastructure programme valued at more than RO105 million, equivalent to approximately $273 million.
Oman Pushes ahead with US$273mn road infrastructure programme
Oman is firmly accelerating its national development trajectory by driving forward a comprehensive road infrastructure programme valued at more than RO105 million, equivalent to approximately $273 million.
Spearheaded across the North A’Sharqiyah Governorate through 2025 and 2026, these ambitious transport initiatives form a core pillar of the country's long-term economic diversification framework under the overarching Oman Vision 2040 strategy. According to the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, the extensive scheme involves building brand-new routes, widening the existing transportation grid, and executing the dualisation of crucial highways that tie together residential districts, industrial zones, and major tourist destinations across the governorate’s various wilayats.
Providing a comprehensive update on regional progress, transport officials highlighted that steady, uninterrupted headway is being achieved on several critical fronts. Notably, construction on the 9-kilometre Aqabat Wadi Bani Khalid road has surged past the 85 percent completion mark. Once fully operational, this strategic pathway will tightly connect the commercial centre of Wadi Bani Khalid with key surrounding tourism, commercial, and economic hubs, facilitating smoother transit for both local residents and commercial operators alike.
In tandem with this landmark milestone, the ministry has formally awarded a substantial RO29.1 million contract dedicated to the dualisation of the 15.6-kilometre Al Yahmedi Al Qafisi road situated within the Wilayat of Ibra. Simultaneously, active engineering operations continue unabated on a vital roadway linking the communities of Mahlah, Ghubrat Al Tam, and Ismailiyat Al Khabah located in Dima Wa Al Taaiyin, representing an investment valued at over RO8 million.
Beyond these flagship projects, the ministerial roadmap encompasses several newly awarded contracts designed to close infrastructural gaps and optimise regional accessibility. These essential additions include a RO4.8 million project establishing a direct link between Ibra and Dima Wa Al Taaiyin, a RO13.5 million road construction initiative at Al Jabal Al Abyadh, and a RO12.4 million contract focused on paving local roads throughout Al Qabil.
Furthermore, the expansive regional upgrade initiative features a RO9.2 million modernisation scheme targeting the crucial thoroughfare connecting Sinaw, Mahoot, and Duqm. This is complemented by a RO15.6 million contract directed toward completing all remaining engineering works on the Sultan Turki bin Said Road, an essential transport corridor stretching across both the North and South A’Sharqiyah governorates.
These localized enhancements are part of a much broader nationwide push to expand the country's transport network. Across the Sultanate, the cumulative length of asphalt roads has climbed past 16,680 kilometres, supported by an unprecedented surge in development expenditure aimed at accelerating project delivery and bridging planned budgets with actual on-the-ground implementation. Infrastructure spending has taken centre stage, accounting for a massive share of state capital allocation to ensure that vital economic corridors are completed efficiently.
Reflecting on the broader strategic momentum driving these milestones, Minister of Transport, Communications and Information Technology Eng Saeed bin Hamoud al Maawali remarked in an official performance report: "The year 2025 represents a renewed milestone in the journey of work and achievement." This overarching drive towards rapid project execution aligns seamlessly with the nation's wider macroeconomic objectives, strengthening the transport and storage sector's contribution to gross domestic product.
By systematically modernising land transport corridors and enhancing inter-governorate connectivity, Oman is actively reinforcing its foundation as a competitive regional logistics and trade hub. These targeted investments not only streamline domestic mobility and commercial freight movement but also directly support local employment generation, sustainable industrial growth, and long-term economic prosperity across the Sultanate.
Saudi-based Al Yamamah Steel Industries Company has officially named leading Italian engineering firm Danieli as the contractor tasked with establishing a state-of-the-art steel billet production plant in the kingdom.
Italian firm Danieli secures US$71mn Saudi plant deal
Saudi-based Al Yamamah Steel Industries Company has officially named leading Italian engineering firm Danieli as the contractor tasked with establishing a state-of-the-art steel billet production plant in the kingdom.
The monumental project, scheduled for full completion by 2029, represents a significant milestone in the region's expanding industrial and manufacturing landscape.
Initially referred to in earlier regulatory disclosures as an unnamed specialised European corporate entity to protect commercial secrets and maintain competitive advantages, the true identity of the partner has now been publicly confirmed following formal updates filed with the Saudi bourse, Tadawul. The multi-million-dollar undertaking underscores the growing collaboration between Saudi industrial enterprises and world-class European engineering specialists.
Under the terms of the substantial SAR270 million agreement—equivalent to approximately $71 million—the scope of work assigned to the Italian corporation encompasses the complete manufacture, supply, and installation of advanced steel billet production equipment at the subsidiary's dedicated premises in the kingdom. Al Yamamah for Reinforcing Steel Bars Company, a key subsidiary of Al Yamamah Steel Industries, oversees this ambitious venture as part of its ongoing strategy to strengthen upstream steelmaking operations and expand domestic processing capabilities.
Corporate leadership has confirmed that the entire engineering, supply, and installation process will be executed swiftly, with Danieli targeted to finish all contracted works within a strict timeframe of two and a half years. Regarding the broader economic outlook, the Saudi group has noted that the financial impact of this landmark deal is expected to be formally reflected in financial statements during the second half of 2028. Furthermore, industry observers note that adopting such cutting-edge manufacturing methodologies aligns seamlessly with broader national objectives aimed at diversifying the industrial base and bolstering domestic production capabilities.
Headquartered in Buttrio, Italy, Danieli boasts a storied history and an unyielding reputation within the global metallurgical sector. Founded back in 1914 by Mario Danieli, the enterprise has evolved remarkably from its modest steelmaking origins in Milan into a massive, globally respected engineering and manufacturing corporation. Today, Danieli stands proudly recognized as one of the world's top three manufacturers of plants and machinery tailored specifically for the metals industry. The firm commands widespread expertise in designing and building specialised equipment for both ferrous and non-ferrous metals, ranging from heavy-duty electric arc furnaces to complex rolling mills.
A defining operational strength of the Italian group is its comprehensive project oversight model. Danieli expertly manages every developmental phase in-house, stretching seamlessly from initial conceptual design right through to rigorous on-site commissioning. Furthermore, the corporation maintains strategically distributed manufacturing workshops worldwide to guarantee consistently standardised production standards across all international jurisdictions.
The announcement of this major industrial contract follows closely on the heels of important financial restructuring for the subsidiary involved. Last month, Al Yamamah for Reinforcing Steel Bars Company secured official authorization from regulatory authorities to implement a capital increase. This was achieved through the issuance of 25 million brand-new shares priced directly at the company's established book value of SAR12, which equates to roughly $3.20 per share.
As part of this capital strengthening initiative, parent firm Al Yamamah Steel announced it would actively subscribe to 6.3 million shares within the rights issue, committing a total investment of SAR75.6 million. Crucially, this capital injection is being funded entirely through internal corporate resources. The fresh proceeds generated from the share issuance are earmarked to robustly bolster the subsidiary's overarching financial position while concurrently financing the construction phases of its expansive manufacturing plant.
By integrating Danieli's cutting-edge metallurgical technology with robust local funding and strategic vision, Al Yamamah Steel Industries is positioning itself for sustained growth within the competitive regional infrastructure sector. As construction gathers momentum over the coming months, the partnership serves as a testament to the robust economic ties driving modern industrial advancement across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
DAMAC has just unveiled a landmark achievement for the year: the scheduled handover of 8,800 premium residential units across the emirate.
DAMAC Properties hits 2026 milestone with 8,800 handovers
Dubai’s property market has long been a barometer for the region’s economic vitality, and the sector shows no signs of slowing down.
Leading this charge is DAMAC Properties, the largest private real estate developer across the United Arab Emirates and the wider Middle East. The organisation has just unveiled a landmark achievement for the year: the scheduled handover of 8,800 premium residential units across the emirate.
This monumental delivery is not occurring in a vacuum. It runs parallel to a massive financial injection into the local construction sector. During the first half of 2026 alone, DAMAC has awarded more than AED 10 billion in construction contracts. This immense capital deployment underscores the developer’s robust momentum and unwavering commitment to expanding its diverse portfolio of master-planned communities and high-profile standalone developments.
Expanding Dubai’s Master Communities
For prospective homeowners and investors, the 8,800 handovers represent a significant turning point. The scheduled deliveries span an array of DAMAC’s most prestigious and highly sought-after flagship destinations. Residents will soon be moving into sprawling, family-orientated communities such as DAMAC Hills and DAMAC Hills 2, which have become synonymous with suburban luxury in Dubai.
The highly anticipated DAMAC Lagoons project will also see handovers, bringing its unique, water-inspired lifestyle to fruition. Beyond these sprawling master communities, the 2026 handover programme includes ultra-luxury urban residences, specifically the striking Chic Tower and the sophisticated Elegance Tower.
This sustained progress highlights DAMAC’s ability to advance complex construction activities. The developer has continually strengthened its formidable pipeline by forging strategic partnerships with top-tier contractors, improving operational efficiencies, and implementing cutting-edge, technology-driven building processes.
Leadership and Resilience
Despite broader geopolitical challenges that often create uncertainty in global markets, the developer has remained steadfast in its operational goals. Ali Sajwani, Managing Director of DAMAC Properties, articulated this resilience perfectly, stating: “DAMAC remains fully committed to delivering every promised unit and project to our customers without disruption or delay. Despite the regional tensions earlier this year, our construction activity, operations and handover timelines continue to progress with confidence and consistency. Our priority remains clear, to deliver on our commitments while maintaining the highest standards of quality, efficiency and execution. Dubai continues to demonstrate exceptional resilience as a global real estate and investment destination, and DAMAC remains focused on supporting the emirate’s long-term vision through timely delivery, and continued investment across our developments.”
A Legacy of Global Ambition
To understand the sheer scale of the 2026 handovers, one must look at the historical trajectory of the firm. Founded in 2002 by Hussain Sajwani, DAMAC Properties has meticulously built a robust, industry-leading track record over the past two decades. Prior to this year's handovers, the developer had already successfully delivered 50,000 units to market. The future pipeline is even more substantial, with an astonishing 54,000 additional units currently under construction.
This domestic success has provided a springboard for international recognition. In 2025, DAMAC Properties aggressively expanded its brand presence both locally and on the global stage. This was driven by pioneering global partnerships. By aligning with internationally renowned sporting powerhouses such as Chelsea Football Club and the Oracle Red Bull Racing team, DAMAC successfully elevated its profile from a regional property leader to a globally recognised luxury lifestyle brand. These strategic moves were complemented by a series of iconic project launches that further solidified its market dominance.
The record-breaking AED 10 billion in H1 2026 contracts and the ambitious 8,800-unit handover schedule represent a fundamental dedication to constructing lifestyle-led communities. By maintaining this aggressive pace of development and delivery, DAMAC Properties is playing a pivotal role in supporting Dubai’s overarching real estate growth. The developer continues to meet the sustained demand from homeowners and investors drawn to the emirate, ensuring that Dubai remains a premier destination on the global property map.