In The Spotlight
Siemens unveils advanced circuit protection and circular soft starter
Siemens Smart Infrastructure has expanded its portfolio of industrial control and protection technologies with new developments aimed at improving electrical safety, operational reliability and sustainability in industrial environments.
The company has enhanced the capabilities of its semiconductor-based circuit protection technology while also introducing a refurbished soft starter developed under circular economy principles. The announcements reflect a broader push by Siemens to combine advanced electrical engineering with environmentally responsible manufacturing.
Central to the update is the continued development of the SENTRON Electronic Circuit Protection Device (ECPD), which was first launched in 2024. The device uses semiconductor technology to perform electronic switching far faster than traditional protection systems, helping to reduce short-circuit energy and safeguard connected equipment.
The ECPD can deliver switching speeds up to 1,000 times faster than conventional solutions. It also integrates more than ten configurable functions into a single unit, allowing operators to significantly reduce the space required within distribution boards while enabling software-based configuration.
Siemens plans to expand the product range with a single-phase version that will include integrated residual current monitoring. This function enables continuous supervision of electrical circuits to detect faults at an early stage without disrupting operations. Such monitoring is particularly relevant for facilities that require high levels of reliability, including data centres, exhibition venues and lighting installations, where uninterrupted power supply is essential.
A three-phase version of the ECPD is also under development to address higher-voltage systems operating at 400V and 32A. This model is expected to support a wider range of infrastructure and industrial applications, including conveyor systems, elevators, heat pumps, air conditioning installations and event power distribution networks.
According to Andreas Matthé, the company’s use of semiconductor technology is reshaping industry expectations for circuit protection by delivering faster response times, compact designs and improved system uptime.
Alongside the circuit protection developments, Siemens has also introduced its first refurbished soft starter designed according to circular economy principles. The SIRIUS 3RW5 -Z R11 refurbished soft starter is created through a controlled refurbishment process in which used devices are thoroughly tested, key components replaced and performance validated to meet the same standards as new equipment.
This remanufacturing process typically reduces carbon emissions by as much as 50% compared with producing a new device, primarily due to lower resource consumption. Environmental Product Declarations document the environmental benefits and ensure transparency.
The refurbished soft starter retains full compatibility with new units in terms of installation, parameterisation and functionality, enabling straightforward integration into existing systems. The product also incorporates traceability features such as a QR-based ID Link, allowing lifecycle monitoring across both its initial and refurbished service phases.
Siemens is showcasing the technology at the Light + Building 2026 in Frankfurt, where the company is highlighting how digitalisation and circular design can work together to support more sustainable industrial operations.
Gulf aviation adjusts schedules as regional tensions disrupt flights
Airlines and aviation authorities across the Middle East are adjusting operations as regional tensions and airspace restrictions continue to disrupt travel, forcing carriers to reduce schedules while governments coordinate support for affected passengers.
Emirates confirmed it is operating a reduced flight schedule until further notice following the partial reopening of some regional airspace. The airline said it plans to run more than 100 flights to and from Dubai on 5 and 6 March in order to transport passengers and move essential cargo such as pharmaceuticals and perishables.
A spokesperson said the carrier will progressively rebuild its timetable as more airspace becomes available and operational requirements are met. Safety, the airline emphasised, remains its primary priority while it continues to monitor developments across the region.
Passengers have been advised to travel to the airport only if they hold confirmed bookings and to check the airline’s website and social media channels for the latest updates.
Meanwhile, Dubai-based carrier flydubai has resumed flights across parts of its network but is currently operating a scaled-back schedule. The airline said it is gradually adding services as restrictions on regional airspace begin to ease.
However, flight times may be longer than usual as aircraft are temporarily rerouted to avoid restricted zones. The airline also urged customers not to travel to the airport without confirmation of a booking or rebooked flight. Travellers connecting through Dubai will only be accepted if their onward flight is operating.
Despite wider disruptions, aviation activity in Jordan has remained comparatively stable. The Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission reported that airports across the Kingdom continued operating normally on Wednesday despite the closure of airspace in several neighbouring countries.
According to commission chairman Deifallah Farajat, Queen Alia International Airport recorded 67 inbound flights and 58 departures during the day, with national carrier Royal Jordanian accounting for the largest share of operations. Authorities said technical teams remain on standby to respond to any developments affecting airspace safety.
Elsewhere, the government of Oman has begun assisting foreign nationals stranded across the Gulf as the travel disruption intensifies. Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Albusaidi said the country is working with governments and international airlines to organise flights for travellers seeking to leave the region.
Omani authorities are coordinating with diplomatic missions and carriers to ensure safe and orderly departures for affected passengers. The initiative reflects the Sultanate’s longstanding diplomatic approach of prioritising humanitarian assistance during regional crises.
The aviation disruption follows the escalation of the US-Israel-Iran conflict, which has prompted several countries to close or restrict their airspace. Airlines have been forced to cancel services or divert aircraft along longer routes to avoid conflict zones.
Industry observers warn that flight disruptions could persist in the coming weeks if hostilities continue, with travellers across the Middle East advised to monitor airline updates as schedules remain subject to rapid change.
Giatec and Sika partner to advance digital concrete tech
Digital concrete technology company Giatec has announced a commercial partnership with specialty chemicals manufacturer Sika aimed at accelerating the adoption of data-driven solutions across the global concrete value chain.
The collaboration will combine Giatec’s digital monitoring and analytics platforms with Sika’s extensive global presence and expertise in construction materials. Through the partnership, the companies intend to expand the use of intelligent technologies in concrete production, transportation, placement and long-term performance monitoring.
Sika operates in more than 100 countries and offers a broad portfolio of construction solutions, including high-performance concrete admixtures and advanced building systems. By integrating Giatec’s digital tools into Sika’s global network, the two companies expect to broaden access to technologies that help construction firms optimise quality control, efficiency and sustainability.
Ivo Schädler, Head Construction at Sika, said the collaboration reflects a shared ambition to support the industry’s transition towards more digitally enabled operations.
“By combining Sika’s materials science and construction expertise with Giatec’s innovative digital concrete solutions, we aim to help the sector move away from reactive methods towards proactive, data-enabled decision-making,” he said. “This approach can improve project quality, boost productivity and support more sustainable construction outcomes.”
The announcement comes as the construction sector increasingly embraces digital tools and artificial intelligence. Industry forecasts indicate that the global market for AI-driven construction technologies could expand significantly over the next decade, driven by demand for improved productivity, cost control and environmental performance.
Giatec’s technology ecosystem includes wireless concrete sensors, artificial intelligence-based software platforms and in-transit monitoring tools designed to provide real-time data on concrete behaviour during transport and placement. According to the company, these systems help contractors and producers improve consistency, reduce material waste and make faster operational decisions.
Pouria Ghods, CEO and co-founder of Giatec, described the agreement as a key step in expanding the company’s global impact. He noted that combining Sika’s global reach with Giatec’s digital expertise will help address long-standing challenges related to efficiency, performance and sustainability within the construction sector.
“Together we can deliver measurable value for producers, contractors and project owners by providing greater transparency and insight into concrete performance,” Ghods said.
Both companies are showcasing their technologies and discussing the partnership with industry stakeholders at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, where representatives are presenting solutions designed to support the digital transformation of construction practices.
Middle East Energy moved to September
Middle East Energy has been rescheduled from 7-9 April to 1-3 September 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, organisers have confirmed via an official statement.
The new dates have also been updated on the Middle East Energy official website.
The 50th edition is now expected to welcome nearly 50,000 attendees from 178 countries, with the revised dates said to provide greater flexibility for travel, logistics and full-scale solution showcases across the power value chain.
While no reason has been formally stated for the change, the move comes amid ongoing regional tensions in the Middle East.
The statement added, "Hosting this landmark event in September 2026 will provide additional space at DWTC and an extended period for all participants to organise logistics and travel and prepare product, machinery and technology showcases, to maximise value for everyone."
Organisers said the team is committed to supporting participants and addressing any queries ahead of the September gathering.
Mark Ring, Group Director – Energy & Power, Informa, said, "This event has always been about bringing the global energy and power community together to share ideas, showcase innovation and drive progress. By hosting the 2026 edition in September, we are ensuring that exhibitors and attendees have the opportunity to make the most of this important event. We remain committed to delivering an exceptional experience for everyone and look forward to welcoming the energy sector to Dubai this September.”
Wirtgen launches W 200 F large milling machine
Road construction equipment manufacturer Wirtgen has introduced the W 200 F, a new-generation large milling machine designed to improve efficiency, operational precision and sustainability in road rehabilitation projects.
The machine forms part of Wirtgen’s latest portfolio of intelligent cold milling machines, developed to help contractors achieve a balance between productivity, milling quality and operating costs. With flexible milling widths of 2.0 m and 2.2 m and a maximum milling depth of 330 mm, the W 200 F is suited to a wide range of road maintenance applications, from removing surface layers to full-depth rehabilitation and fine milling tasks.
At the core of the machine’s capabilities is the company’s MILL ASSIST control technology, which automates many operational adjustments typically carried out manually by machine operators. Milling operations often require continuous parameter changes due to varying road surfaces and working conditions. These include adjustments to milling speed, drum rotation and water flow.
Using digital monitoring and real-time data analysis, MILL ASSIST automatically optimises these parameters while the machine is operating. According to Wirtgen, the system identifies the most efficient balance between production output and resource consumption, allowing the equipment to respond dynamically to changing site conditions. The automation helps reduce fuel use, water consumption and tool wear while also lowering noise and carbon emissions.
The W 200 F also introduces a revised operating interface designed to simplify machine control. Instead of monitoring several separate displays, operators can now access key operational data through a single 7-inch control panel that provides an overview of machine performance and milling progress. A secondary 5-inch panel manages the LEVEL PRO ACTIVE levelling system, which ensures precise surface results during milling operations.
LEVEL PRO ACTIVE is fully integrated with the machine’s control system and includes automated functions to improve productivity. For example, the system allows the machine to automatically raise itself when passing over obstacles such as manhole covers. It also assists operators when positioning the machine for subsequent milling passes, helping to maintain consistent surface quality.
Another notable feature is the optional Multiple Cutting System (MCS), which allows milling drums with different tool spacings to be replaced without additional tools. Using this system, a milling drum can be removed and replaced in approximately 15 minutes. The ability to quickly change drums enables contractors to adapt the machine to different project requirements and minimise downtime.
In addition, the W 200 F supports rapid replacement of entire milling drum assemblies. Pre-assembled units with different milling widths can be swapped in around one hour, allowing contractors to respond more quickly to changing project specifications on site.
Etihad Rail trials emergency border passenger route
Etihad Rail has operated a passenger train on a trial basis between Al Ghuwaifat, near the Saudi border, and Al Faya in Abu Dhabi, as part of contingency planning linked to current regional developments.
The test run forms part of wider preparedness measures aimed at safeguarding essential services and ensuring alternative transport options remain available if required. The initiative was carried out in coordination with the Abu Dhabi Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre (ADCMC).
Officials said the route connecting the two stations holds strategic significance, strengthening transport links between the UAE and Saudi Arabia while facilitating access to key ports and logistics hubs. The connection is designed to support the movement of citizens and residents and provide additional flexibility within approved response frameworks.
The operation sits within a broader package of integrated measures implemented by relevant authorities to reinforce logistical security and business continuity. These efforts are aligned with multi-scenario risk management strategies intended to ensure that critical infrastructure remains resilient under changing circumstances.
Matar Saeed Al Nuaimi, Director-General of ADCMC, said transport readiness is central to Abu Dhabi’s comprehensive emergency response system. He noted that developments are managed under structured governance and close coordination across sectors, allowing for rapid adjustments and efficient deployment of resources.
Al Nuaimi added that maintaining flexibility within the transport network is vital to sustaining essential services and preserving societal stability. The Centre, he said, continues to monitor developments around the clock to strengthen preparedness and public confidence.
From Etihad Rail’s side, Chief Projects Officer Eng Mohammed Al Shehhi said the trial demonstrates the adaptability of the UAE’s national railway network. He noted that operating passenger services along the Al Ghuwaifat–Al Faya corridor highlights the system’s ability to support national requirements under various scenarios.
Al Shehhi said the initiative aligns with directives to bolster the national transport ecosystem and enhance its strategic contribution to community resilience. He confirmed that Etihad Rail teams remain in close coordination with government partners to maintain operational continuity.
Authorities stressed that the move reflects proactive planning rather than reactive measures, translating risk assessments into practical solutions that enhance infrastructure resilience and ensure the smooth movement of people when needed.
Dubai awards AED2.5bn stormwater contracts
Dubai Municipality has awarded five major contracts under the second phase of its Tasreef Programme, committing AED2.5bn to expand and reinforce the emirate’s stormwater drainage network.
The move follows directives from Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to strengthen critical infrastructure and ensure drainage systems are fit to serve Dubai for the next century. The newly announced package will cover 30 key districts across approximately 430mn sq m, supporting a projected population of three million residents by 2040.
Contracts have been signed with international contractors including DeTech Contracting and China State Construction Engineering Corporation, alongside specialist consultants. The scope comprises three construction agreements and two design and study contracts focused on selected locations across the city.
The latest awards build on Phase One allocations announced in April 2025 and form part of a phased delivery strategy aimed at improving flood resilience amid rapid urbanisation and intensifying climate pressures. Dubai Municipality said the projects are aligned with the objectives of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and broader national climate neutrality ambitions.
Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, described Tasreef as one of the emirate’s flagship infrastructure initiatives, designed to embed long-term sustainability into urban planning. He said the programme seeks to establish an integrated stormwater management system that enhances preparedness, safeguards resources and improves quality of life.
Adel Al Marzouqi, CEO of the Waste and Sewerage Agency, added that Phase Two will raise network capacity in priority areas, improve service continuity and elevate safety standards.
Among the headline schemes is the construction of a main tunnel up to four metres in diameter, linking communities along Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Al Yalayis Road to the primary drainage backbone. A separate 27 km integrated network will extend between Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Jamayel Road, incorporating advanced tunnels to protect a strategic industrial and logistics corridor.
Additional works include a new drainage tunnel and pumping station along Dubai–Al Ain Road and Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street, as well as a stormwater collection lake. Design contracts have also been issued for an integrated stormwater and groundwater system in Al Marmoom and Saih Al Salam, connected to the main line along Al Qudra Road.