In The Spotlight
DEWA and Dell Technologies advance smart, sustainable utilities
Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has taken another decisive step towards shaping the future of smart and sustainable utilities by exploring strategic collaboration opportunities with Dell Technologies.
HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, welcomed a senior Dell Technologies delegation led by Adrian McDonald, President for Europe, Middle East & Africa; Walid Yehia, Managing Director – Gulf; and Mohammad Amin, Senior Vice President – CEEMETA. The meeting was also attended by Marwan Bin Haidar, Executive Vice President of Innovation and the Future at DEWA, and Mohammed Bin Sulaiman, CEO of Moro Hub, part of Digital DEWA.
The discussions centred on strengthening cooperation to deploy advanced digital solutions that support Dubai’s smart infrastructure ambitions, accelerate green initiatives and transform utility services through innovation. Both parties examined how emerging technologies can play a pivotal role in redefining operational excellence across the energy and water sectors.
Al Tayer affirmed that, in line with the vision and directives of Dubai’s wise leadership to make AI the cornerstone of future initiatives and services in the emirate, DEWA is harnessing the latest Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies, particularly AI, to enhance performance and productivity. He emphasised the critical role of robust IT infrastructure, AI and Big Data analytics in building more resilient, efficient and customer-centric utility services.
The meeting highlighted opportunities for Dell Technologies to contribute its global expertise in digital transformation to support DEWA’s ambitious road maps for sustainable energy, integrated water management and smart city development. Discussions explored modernising critical infrastructure through next-generation IoT, edge computing and advanced data centre solutions to enhance grid reliability, seamlessly integrate renewable energy and optimise water distribution networks.
Both sides also examined how AI, advanced analytics and machine learning can unlock new operational efficiencies through predictive maintenance, intelligent demand forecasting and personalised customer engagement. Sustainability emerged as a core focus, with an emphasis on green data centres, energy-efficient system designs and innovative cooling technologies aligned with Dubai’s environmental goals.
The dialogue concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening cybersecurity frameworks, ensuring the long-term security, resilience and reliability of Dubai’s critical utility infrastructure in an increasingly digital future.
Wind energy is becoming a strategic pillar of renewable energy development in several Middle Eastern nations. (Image source: Adobe Stock)
Building a skilled workforce for Middle East wind projects
The wind energy sector in the Middle East is expanding rapidly as countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Oman push forward with ambitious renewable energy goals
As wind projects grow across the region, the need for a highly skilled and safety-focused workforce becomes increasingly important. Wind turbine technicians play a central role in this transition because they keep turbines operating efficiently and safely. One of the most widely recognised qualifications for these technicians is GWO certificates, which provide an international benchmark for technical ability and safety awareness in the wind industry. This article explores why these certificates are essential in preparing a qualified workforce for the Middle East’s evolving wind energy landscape.
The growing need for skilled technicians in Middle East wind energy
Wind energy development in the region brings unique challenges due to harsh climates, expanding infrastructure and the technical demands of modern turbines. Technicians must work at significant heights, handle mechanical and electrical systems and operate in extreme temperatures. They also need the skills to inspect equipment, troubleshoot issues and perform regular maintenance to avoid operational downtime.
GWO certificates offer standardised and comprehensive safety training that prepares technicians for these conditions. The training includes essential modules such as working at heights, manual handling, fire awareness and first aid. For companies building or maintaining wind farms in the Middle East, workers trained under GWO certificates provide a reliable and competent foundation for meeting regional project demands.
GWO certificates for wind technician safety and competence
Achieving GWO certificates has become an industry requirement for technicians working on wind turbines worldwide. This training ensures workers understand both routine safety practices and emergency response techniques that are crucial in a high-risk environment. Programme modules address working at height procedures, safe movement in turbine towers and how to react during unexpected situations.
For the Middle East, adopting GWO certificates is key to aligning wind energy operations with global safety and performance expectations. Many countries in the region are still expanding their wind energy infrastructure, making it essential to build a trained workforce from the outset. Certification gives employers confidence that technicians possess the correct skills to meet international standards and handle the environmental challenges specific to the region.
How GWO training supports wind energy growth in the Middle East
Wind energy is becoming a strategic pillar of renewable energy development in several Middle Eastern nations. As large-scale wind farms are introduced, project success increasingly depends on having well-trained personnel capable of maintaining turbine availability and performance. GWO-based training provides practical capabilities that technicians rely on daily, from climbing and rescue procedures to safe handling of equipment during routine inspections.
In addition, GWO certificates support broader industry goals by promoting a consistent safety culture across the region. As more companies adopt these certifications, teams gain shared knowledge and practices that reduce risk and improve reliability. This consistency is especially important for international firms entering the Middle East market since it ensures alignment with the safety expectations used worldwide.
Conclusion
The Middle East’s shift toward renewable energy places wind power at the center of long-term sustainability plans. The success of these projects will depend heavily on the capabilities of technicians responsible for turbine operation and maintenance. GWO certificates provide a structured and globally recognised path to building that skilled workforce and ensuring that safety and performance standards remain high.
Organisations that want to strengthen their workforce can explore training options through providers such as FMTC Safety. For more information about certification programmes suitable for the Middle East wind sector, visit fmtcsafety.com, where you can find course options designed to prepare technicians for the region’s challenging and fast-growing wind energy industry.
Palma awards US$207mn contract for West Residence in Jumeirah Islands
Dubai-based Palma Development has awarded a 760 million UAE dirhams ($206.94 million) construction contract to Khansaheb Civil Engineering for West Residence, the first residential tower within the AED5 billion Serenia District, a flagship master-planned community in Jumeirah Islands.
The 46-storey West Residence tower will feature 411 one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes, alongside two exclusive penthouses, the developer confirmed in a statement. While no official completion date has been provided, the project is a significant addition to Palma Development’s expanding luxury portfolio in Dubai.
In July, Palma Development appointed APCC Piling & Marine Contracting to begin shoring and piling works for the tower, signalling the commencement of key foundational works.
The Serenia District is designed around six lifestyle zones: the Serenia Signature Clubhouse, Health and Social zone, Sports and Recreation spaces, Family Oasis, Nature Discovery zone, and a Wellness Retreat. This approach underlines Palma’s focus on creating a holistic and luxury residential experience in Dubai’s upscale communities.
Khansaheb Civil Engineering has a proven track record in the region, having successfully delivered Serenia Residences The Palm and currently executing Serenia Living on Palm Jumeirah. In April, Palma Executive Director Omar Derbas told Zawya Projects that the AED 3 billion Serenia Living on Palm Jumeirah’s West Crescent is on track for full completion by the fourth quarter of 2025.
With the West Residence project, Palma Development continues to strengthen its presence in Dubai’s luxury real estate market, offering modern, high-rise living in one of the city’s most sought-after master-planned communities.
Panafrican named Wirtgen Group regional dealer
The Wirtgen Group has announced the appointment of Panafrican Equipment Group as its new authorised dealer, expanding access to its complete line of products and technologies across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi in East Africa, as well as Ghana and Sierra Leone in West Africa
In Nigeria, the partnership will specifically cover the group’s minerals and soil compaction portfolio.
A long-standing partner across Africa
For decades, the Wirtgen Group has maintained a strong presence on the continent. Its six specialist brands – Wirtgen, Vögele, Hamm, Kleemann, Benninghoven and Ciber – work in synergy to meet the specific requirements of customers across diverse sectors. Together, they bring proven expertise and extensive industry knowledge to African markets. “With the innovative road construction and mineral solutions, the Wirtgen Group is well equipped to meet future challenges”, says Jerry Muchiri, Manager Regional Business and Dealer Development East Africa and Nigeria at Wirtgen International GmbH.
Panafrican’s strong after-sales commitment
Panafrican’s established footprint and its commitment to high-quality service delivery will further strengthen access to Wirtgen Group’s technologies throughout the region. “As authorised dealer, Panafrican provides complete support for all construction and mineral processing needs, combining our service expertise with Wirtgen Group's innovative portfolio and applications know how,” commented Scott McCaw, CEO and managing director Panafrican Group.
The collaboration positions both companies to deliver enhanced customer support and reinforces their shared dedication to innovation, quality and customer-centric service.
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Discover the affordable RFID Scan & Drive solution from Brady!
Have you ever arrived at an intervention without the necessary equipment? Ever lost tools during field interventions? How much time do you spend to make sure all equipment is accounted for, and present in your vehicles? Now you can confirm vehicle inventories digitally and automatically, highlight any missing assets, and home in on misplaced items to quickly complete your vehicles. How much time could you save?
Everything present
Instantly see which tools are present in a vehicle - and what is missing. Easily save substantial time per vehicle, per intervention, with automated equipment inventory checks that take only seconds.
By labelling equipment with passive, battery-free UHF RFID labels, we can let an RFID reader in your vehicle detect which tools and items are present. The RFID reader can check detected tools versus a list of expected items to confirm a complete vehicle inventory or to highlight missing equipment on your phone.
Be fully equipped before leaving for a field intervention. Avoid losing tools after interventions. Don’t waste time checking visually where every piece of equipment is. Just scan, get confirmation in seconds, and drive to your next destination.
Home in on assets
Quickly find misplaced equipment. Home in on specific items with a portable RFID reader and proximity-increasing sounds and visuals.
Passive, battery-free UHF RFID labels bounce back radio signals from a portable RFID reader up to 15 metres. By measuring the strength of the returning radio signal with patented data capture technology, our portable RFID readers guide users towards a unique RFID label applied on a specific tool. When closing in, auditive and visual feedback strength from the reader increases.
RFID labels can include an LED, powered by an RFID reader from a 1.5 metre distance, to let a tool light up or to find it in a dense inventory of equipment.

Solution components
Brady develops and manufactures every component in our solution. Tested in in-house laboratories, each component is designed to withstand the wear and tear of field interventions, including exposure to UV, dust and moisture.
- RFID labels: Brady offers industrial grade on- and off-metal RFID-labels and tags that stay attached and remain legible on your equipment.
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Are you interested in automated inventory checks solution from Brady? Visit our website, watch the short video and download the free RFID labelling guidebook.
.The museum stands as a profound tribute to the life, leadership, and legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.(Image source: EMSTEEL)
EMSTEEL powers construction of the Zayed National Museum
EMSTEEL has announced its pivotal contribution to the construction of the iconic Zayed National Museum—the newest cultural beacon in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District.
Officially inaugurated by the UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and attended by Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates, the opening formed part of the nation’s celebrations for the 54th Eid Al Etihad. The museum stands as a profound tribute to the life, leadership, and legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, embodying the UAE’s unity, heritage, and ambitious future.
Throughout the museum’s development, EMSTEEL played a central role by supplying the structural backbone of this architectural masterpiece. Across three years, the Group delivered approximately 24,000 tonnes of rebar, up to 25,000 direct block units, and around 100,000 tonnes of bulk cement. These critical materials underpinned the engineering integrity of the project, enabling the creation of a landmark that will serve as a cultural touchstone for generations to come.
Saeed Ghumran Al Remeithi, group CEO of EMSTEEL, said,“The opening of the Zayed National Museum on the 54th Eid Al Etihad is a defining moment for our nation. It reflects the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the unity that shaped the UAE’s extraordinary journey of progress. As a national industrial champion, we are honoured that our steel and building materials contributed to a landmark of such cultural and historic significance. This project reflects our role in supporting the UAE’s long-term development and our commitment to fostering an industrial sector that continues to strengthen the nation’s future.”
EMSTEEL’s involvement in the Zayed National Museum adds to its impressive legacy of supporting the UAE’s most celebrated cultural and architectural undertakings. From Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi to the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, along with national treasures such as Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Dubai’s Museum of the Future, the Group has become synonymous with high-impact, visionary development.
These landmark contributions underline EMSTEEL’s position as a trusted partner in national progress. With an unwavering focus on sustainability, low-carbon manufacturing, and resilient local supply chains, EMSTEEL continues to bolster the UAE’s industrial strength while helping shape its cultural and architectural legacy.
Fincantieri signs shipbuilding MoU with Bahrain
Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri and ASRY (Arab Shipbuilding & Repair Yard) have signed an Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore new opportunities for collaboration in the shipbuilding sector
Under the MoU, the two sides will jointly evaluate opportunities for the design and construction of offshore service and military vessels up to 80 metres in length, as well as the potential for export contracts in the Gulf area.
The agreement also includes maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for military, commercial and offshore vessels, as well as the exchange of know-how in naval design and production process optimisation.
The military vessels would be intended for use by the Bahrain Navy and Coast Guard.
ASRY is a leading operator in ship repair and marine services in the Gulf of Bahrain.
Fincantieri was represented by its chairman, Biagio Mazzotta, and Eugenio Santagata, general manager of the Fincantieri Naval Vessels Division, who signed the agreement together with Ahmed AlAbri, CEO of ASRY.
Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and managing director of Fincantieri, said the MoU represents an opportunity for Fincantieri to enter the Bahraini shipbuilding market and is a further step in consolidating the group's strategy and presence in the Middle East.
“This agreement strengthens our strategic position in the Gulf and confirms Fincantieri's desire to develop long-term industrial partnerships with leading partners such as ASRY,” said Folgiero.
“By combining complementary skills and converging visions, we are laying the foundations for a solid and structured presence in the Bahraini shipbuilding market, in line with the objectives of our integrated export platform in the Middle East.”
The signing of the MoU took place on the sidelines of the 46th Gulf Cooperation Council Summit in the presence of Italian President of the Council of Ministers Giorgia Meloni, and Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister His Royal Highness Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa.
Separately, Fincantieri announced a partnership In Saudi Arabia with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) to establish a scholarship aimed at supporting young researchers in maritime security, cyber-resilience and emerging applied navigation technologies.
It follows an MoU signed last January and reflects a shared commitment of both sides in promoting excellence in education and technology transfer, in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a Fincantieri statement read.
“The scholarship will enable young and talented researchers to develop innovative solutions to counter new threats to navigation, such as recent cases of AIS and GPS spoofing, which can alter vessel positions and compromise the safety of shipping routes,” it stated.
The programme will focus on three strategic areas: the advanced authentication of AIS signals to prevent manipulation; the opportunistic detection of GPS spoofing through intelligent satellite data analysis, and star-based position verification enhanced by machine learning algorithms.
Fincantieri added that the goal is to develop an operational software platform that can be integrated into on-board digital systems, strengthening the collaboration between universities and industry and contributing to the growth of the Fincantieri Digital Ecosystem (FDE).