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Masdar expands Saudi renewable energy portfolio

Energy

Masdar secures two solar projects in Saudi Arabia

Masdar, a Abu Dhabi energy company, has been awarded two solar photovoltaic (PV) projects, with a combined capacity of 2 GW, under the sixth round of bidding in Saudi Arabia's National Renewable Energy Program (NREP)

The Independent Power Producer (IPP) projects, for the 1,400 MW Najran plant and the 600 MW Ad Darb facility, will be developed on a build, own, and operate (BOO) basis, with a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) signed with the Saudi Power Procurement Company (SPPC).

The Ad Darb plant, which will be located in Jizan Province, is expected to begin commercial operations in late 2027, with the Najran project, based in Najran Province, starting commercial operations in the first half of 2028.

Mohamed Al Ramahi, CEO of Masdar, said, Masdar is proud to support Saudi Arabia to achieve its Vision 2030 renewable energy targets. Winning the Najran and Ad Darb projects marks a significant expansion of our Saudi portfolio, and is testament to our two decades of experience in developing and operating utility-scale renewable projects, and our strong track record in the region. We look forward to develop these projects and contribute to the Kingdom’s sustainable economic growth.”

Principal Buyer is the entity responsible for conducting predevelopment studies, tendering power generation projects, and signing Power Purchase Agreements with project developers.

To date, the company has awarded a total capacity of 43.2 GW, with 12.3 GW being already connected to the grid.

Masdar has secured the largest capacity in the highly competitive SPPC bidding for three consecutive years, with other solar projects in development including the 1,100MW Al Henakiyah project, scheduled to begin commercial operations next year, and the 2,000 MW Al Sadawi project, expected to start operation in 2027.

Established in 2006, Masdar is a clean energy investor, developer and operator, with a global portfolio capacity of over 51 GW and a mandate to increase its portfolio to 100GW by 2030.

Masdar opened an office in Saudi Arabia in 2022 to support the nation’s clean energy objectives.

Masdar’s operational portfolio in the Kingdom includes the 300 MW Jeddah Solar Power Plant and the 400 MW Dumat Al Jandal Wind Farm, Saudi Arabia’s first wind project and the largest in the Middle East.

Dr Al Jaber underlined the UAE’s leadership in integrating AI and technology to drive efficiency.

Event News

ADIPEC 2025 calls for AI-driven energy growth

Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, ADNOC CEO and Masdar chairman, officially opened ADIPEC 2025 in Abu Dhabi today with a powerful call for realism, collaboration and innovation in the face of global energy challenges

Addressing global industry leaders, Dr Al Jaber urged the sector to “tune out the noise, track the signal,” emphasising that “near-term uncertainty is real, while long-term demand remains very strong.” He highlighted that energy demand will continue to grow across all sectors, noting that “renewables will more than double, funding for LNG will grow by 50%, jet fuel by more than 30%, and oil will stay above 100 million barrels per day beyond 2040.”

He stressed that “what we’re really talking about here is energy addition, not energy transition,” reinforcing that “energy equals jobs, growth, competitiveness and intelligence.”

Dr Al Jaber also underlined the UAE’s leadership in integrating AI and technology to drive efficiency. “We are laser-focused on becoming the most AI-native energy company,” he said, referencing ADNOC’s Energy to the Power of AI programme, which boosts production forecasts by 90%.

Closing his address, he urged unity and resilience. “Real progress is never the work of one single individual or company. It happens when we move together with purpose.”

Secretary Doug Burgum, 55th Secretary of the Interior, Chair, Energy Dominance Council of the United States of America spoke at the opening ceremony. He urged the global community to hasten the adoption of AI, while calling for the US to stay ahead in what he termed the “AI arms race”.

The opening of ADIPEC also saw a ministerial panel comprised of His Excellency Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, the UAE’s Minister of Energy and Infrastructure; His Excellency Saad bin Sherida Al Kaabi, the Qatari Minister of State for Energy Affairs; and His Excellency Eng. Karim Badawi, Egypt’s Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources.

The panelists grappled with the complex future of the energy sector, emphasising the urgent need for investment, balanced policies, and collaboration across borders.

Al Mazrouei highlighted the rising demand for diverse energy sources. “We will definitely need more oil, definitely more gas, definitely more renewable energy,” he noted, adding, “If we’re not investing in a large scale... we will have an issue down the road.”

Addressing geopolitical uncertainties, Al Kaabi warned of the consequences of regulatory decisions. “If Europe does not really look at how they can water down the CSDDD... we will not be delivering energy to Europe for sure, 100%.”

Both the US and Qatar have warned the European Union that its Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) could disrupt liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies to Europe. They are concerned that penalties of up to 5% of a company's global annual turnover for non-compliance could make it unprofitable to supply Europe, and have urged the EU to revise or repeal the CSDDD. Qatar, a major LNG supplier to Europe, stated that it would halt exports to the bloc if it faced such fines.

Al Kaabi emphasised, “We shouldn’t be following politics when we look at the lives of people and how much energy we need.”

Badawi brought focus to regional innovation and cooperation, “Egypt is very much focused in terms of unleashing the potential of the mining sector,” he said. He also stressed the importance of diverse strategies, explaining that Egypt is “Very much focused on creating the energy mix, which leverages renewables, oil, gas, and nuclear.”

ENECIQ helps employees generate tailored insights. (Image source: ENEC)

Technology

Presight and ENEC drive AI innovation across industrial sectors

The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) and Presight, a leading global AI and big data analytics company, have announced the co-development of ENECIQ, an independent agentic AI platform designed to accelerate insights, decision-making, and knowledge sharing within ENEC.

The launch of ENECIQ marks a major milestone in ENEC’s digital transformation journey and underscores its commitment to harnessing advanced technologies to enhance efficiency across corporate and support functions. The secure platform integrates AI across ENEC’s internal systems, providing intelligent, context-aware support to employees and improving productivity through automation and data-driven insights.

Drawing from ENEC’s internal knowledge bases, ENECIQ helps employees generate tailored insights, summarise technical reports, analyse project KPIs, and quickly access procedures and documentation. By embedding AI into daily workflows, the platform frees up valuable time for innovation and strategic problem-solving.

Developed within ENEC’s secure cloud environment, ENECIQ remains entirely separate from its nuclear reactor operations systems, maintaining the highest international and local standards of data security and governance.

H.E. Mohamed Al Hammadi, managing director and group chief executive officer of ENEC, said, “At ENEC, we continue to integrate cutting-edge technologies as part of our ongoing journey to elevate our standards of excellence. The collaboration with Presight and the development of ENECIQ will help our teams with securing AI capabilities tailored to our organisation’s unique needs. Our continued focus on excellence puts us at the forefront of the nuclear industry globally, and this is a welcome step forward in driving efficiencies at every level.”

Thomas Pramotedham, chief executive officer of Presight, said, “ENECIQ sets a benchmark in innovation for sovereign agentic AI deployment within critical national infrastructure, representing one of the most advanced corporate-wide implementations. This platform integrates secure AI across a highly complex operational and data environment where precision, reliability, and data integrity are non-negotiable. Delivering AI at this scale, within such a mission-critical institution, demands not only cutting-edge technology but also deep domain expertise and rigorous governance. ENECIQ showcases the transformative potential of sovereign AI in the energy sector enhancing operational resilience, accelerating decision-making, and unlocking new efficiencies that support the UAE’s long-term energy and AI ambitions.”

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Energy

mtu generators strengthen Kuwait’s energy resilience. (Image source: Rolls Royce)

Energy

Rolls-Royce powers Kuwait airport expansion

Rolls-Royce is set to supply seven mtu emergency power generators to support the expansion of energy infrastructure at Kuwait International Airport

The 20V 4000 DS 3600 diesel generators will be installed in the new Terminal 2, providing power for key facilities such as the catering building and the airport’s central energy systems.

Kuwait International Airport is currently undergoing a significant expansion to establish one of the Gulf region’s most advanced aviation hubs. Once complete, Terminal 2 will accommodate an initial 25 million passengers annually, with potential future capacity rising to 50 million. The development aligns with the national growth initiative, Kuwait Vision 2035.

The project has been commissioned by the Kuwaiti directorate general of civil aviation in partnership with the Ministry of Public Works, with international construction company LIMAK serving as the general contractor.

Engineered to perform under extreme conditions, the mtu units are designed for ambient temperatures reaching up to +55°C. Delivery is scheduled for early 2026, followed by a phase of testing, commissioning, and handover.

“We are proud that our products ensure the safe operation of critical infrastructure at the airport – even in this region with extreme environmental conditions,” said Salim El Banna, country sales manager UAE, Bahrain, Iraq & Kuwait, Power Systems Division, Rolls-Royce.

Rolls-Royce supports critical infrastructure worldwide with more than 85,000 mtu emergency power systems in operation. These systems — based on diesel and gas generators as well as dynamic UPS solutions — provide reliable, uninterrupted power for airports, data centres, hospitals, industrial facilities, and energy providers. mtu technology has long been deployed at leading international airports such as Frankfurt, Dubai, Madrid, Prague, Palma, and Hurghada.

OEG secures three multi-year Qatar contracts, investing in new equipment and expanding operations across the Middle East. (Image source: OEG)

The collaboration expands ongoing technical studies by Decahydron and SNOC. (Image source: Decahydron)

Water

The Dammam Independent Sewage Treatment Plant (ISTP) was officially inaugurated earlier this week. (Image source: Metito)

Water

Dammam ISTP inaugurated under PPP framework

The Dammam Independent Sewage Treatment Plant (ISTP) was officially inaugurated earlier this week.

Delivered by a consortium led by Metito Utilities alongside Mowah and Orascom Construction, the project marks a major step forward in supporting Saudi Vision 2030’s National Water Strategy through an innovative Public–Private Partnership (PPP) framework.

Awarded by the Saudi Water Partnership Company (SWPC), the Dammam ISTP was developed with a total investment of SAR690mn (US$185.26mn) under a 25-year Build–Own–Operate–Transfer (BOOT) model. The plant has an initial capacity of 200,000 m³/day, expandable to 350,000 m³/day, serving nearly one million residents in western Dammam.

The performance-based PPP model mobilizes private sector capital, technology, and expertise to deliver critical infrastructure that meets the Kingdom’s growing water demands.

The plant utilises Integrated Fixed Film Activated Sludge (IFAS) technology, achieving high treatment efficiency while reducing civil works and tank volumes. Its sustainable design incorporates anaerobic digestion to convert sludge into biogas for on-site use, alongside solar drying greenhouses that harness Dammam’s abundant sunlight. These features minimise emissions and reduce operational costs.

Construction, which began in 2020 after financial close, recorded over 6.9 million safe man-hours with zero lost-time incidents (LTIs), created hundreds of local jobs, and enhanced sustainability through resource recovery and reduced landfill dependency. The project contributes directly to several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 6 (Clean Water & Sanitation), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

ServeU drives water innovation with PureBlue Water

Construction

MDS marks 30 years of innovation in screening technology

MDS, a global leader in specialist screening equipment, marked its 30th anniversary this year, celebrating three decades of innovation and growth. From humble beginnings in a repurposed farm shed in rural Ireland, the company evolved into an internationally recognised manufacturer of heavy-duty rock and environmental trommels, valued for their durability and reliability in the most demanding conditions.

Founded in 1995 by Liam Murray and his wife Una, MDS began as a small workshop producing Christmas tree stands and custom projects for local customers. With limited resources, the company diversified early on, manufacturing turnstiles for local GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) clubs, robotic systems, and agricultural machinery. Its reputation for practical design and engineering ingenuity steadily grew, paving the way for a major transformation.

That transformation came in 2014 with the development of the first MDS rock trommel, marking the company’s move away from subcontracting and agricultural equipment into specialised screening solutions. The launch of the M515 mobile rock trommel represented years of accumulated expertise and collaboration. It was followed by the M412 and M413 compact trommels, which carried forward the same robust design ethos, tailored for smaller-scale applications.

“MDS was no longer just a fabrication shop. We had a product with a market that believed in it,” said Liam Og Murray, Regional Sales Manager and son of founder Liam Murray. Having grown up around the workshop, Liam Og inherited the company’s values of innovation and integrity. “The shift to rock trommels led to substantial growth for MDS between 2015 and 2020 and ultimately laid the groundwork for our relationship with Terex,” he added.

Since being acquired by Terex in 2021, MDS has expanded its global distribution network, particularly across Europe, while maintaining a strong focus on product development. The flagship M515 was relaunched with improved transportability, better service access, and increased stockpile capacity. In 2024, the M518R was reintroduced after a comprehensive redesign to meet the needs of small to medium-sized operations processing compost, biomass, and municipal waste.

The company also invested heavily in production improvements, opening a new state-of-the-art paintshop equipped with advanced filtration technology to ensure cleaner air and a higher-quality finish. These upgrades enhanced both operator safety and product quality.

With continued growth in sight, MDS appointed Steven Keenan as its new General Manager. Having served as Engineering Manager for three years, Keenan brought a deep understanding of the company’s operations and culture, along with prior experience at Terex Omagh and Poclain Hydraulics.

“I want to congratulate the entire MDS team on reaching this fantastic milestone,” said Steven. “As we enter our next chapter, my focus will be on strengthening our global distribution network so that our renowned models can deliver even greater impact across international markets. I’m excited to lead the team into this next phase of growth. With a deep engineering background and a genuine passion for innovation, I’m committed to driving forward our technology and expanding our product offering to meet the evolving needs of our customers.”

LANDCROS ushers in smart construction era

Mining

The agreement aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy. (Image source: Maaden)

Mining

Maaden signs solar power deal for Al Baitha Bauxite Mine

Maaden Bauxite and Alumina Company (MBAC), a subsidiary of Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Maaden), has signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Emerge, the joint venture between Masdar and EDF.

The deal will see the development of a solar power facility to supply clean energy to the Al Baitha Bauxite Mine for the next 30 years.

The project will integrate an 8 MWp ground-mounted solar photovoltaic array with a 30 MWh battery energy storage system, ensuring stable, round-the-clock power supply.

Expected to generate around 17,300 MWh of electricity annually, the facility will cut approximately 13,800 tonnes of CO₂ emissions each year, comparable to removing over 3,000 cars from the road.

With the new system, the Al Baitha Bauxite Mine will be able to operate almost entirely on renewable energy, making it one of the region’s first large-scale mining operations powered predominantly by clean sources.

The agreement aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy by advancing the Kingdom’s energy transition, lowering industrial carbon emissions, and supporting sustainable economic growth.

Emerge will deliver the project on a full turnkey basis, overseeing financing, design, procurement, construction, operations, and maintenance.

The initiative underscores Maaden’s growing role as one of the world’s fastest-expanding mining companies while positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in sustainable mining practices.

Ali Al-Qahtani, executive vice-president, of Maaden’s aluminum business, said, “This partnership supports our ambitions to drive renewable energy across our operations, as well as reinforcing our committment to advancing sustainable solutions that benefit both our businesses and the communities we serve. We look forward to working with Emerge to deliver this integral pillar of our operations.”

Abdulaziz Alobaidli, chairman of Emerge and chief operating officer at Masdar, commented, “Emerge offers businesses a seamless, cost-effective pathway to transform to renewable energy. This partnership demonstrates the value Emerge brings to industries looking to decarbonise and optimise their energy usage.”

Omar Aldaweesh, CEO KSA of EDF Group and EDF power solutions, and Emerge board member, said, “Emerge’s partnership with Maaden marks a bold step in decarbonising the Kingdom’s mining sector. By delivering a tailored solar power plant and battery storage solution, we are paving the way for a more resilient, low-carbon future while proving that industrial ambition and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.”

The successful bidders include four consortia

Manufacturing

Honeywell's mobile computer production line in Dhahran

Honeywell announced the launch of a new production line for its advanced handheld mobile computers, the ScanPal EDA57 and the CT47, at its facility in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.

The launch marked a significant milestone in Honeywell’s localisation strategy, reinforcing its commitment to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals by expanding high-tech manufacturing within the Kingdom and enabling faster delivery of critical industrial solutions.

The Dhahran facility served as a cornerstone of Honeywell’s regional operations and formed part of a growing local manufacturing base that also produced Honeywell gas detection systems. Fully equipped for assembly, integration and testing, the site allowed the company to produce and deploy its latest technologies directly from within Saudi Arabia, thereby enhancing operational agility, shortening delivery times and strengthening local technical support.

The ScanPal EDA57 was introduced as a rugged, high-performance handheld computer built for demanding industries such as retail, warehousing and field services. Featuring robust 5G and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, advanced scanning functions and a durable design, the device was engineered to maximise efficiency for frontline workers across indoor and field environments.

Meanwhile, the CT47 — part of Honeywell’s Mobility Edge platform — was developed as an ultra-rugged mobile computer designed to meet the evolving needs of modern supply chains. With enterprise-grade durability, real-time inventory and order tracking, and extended software lifecycle support, the CT47 helped manufacturers, logistics providers and transport operators maintain visibility and control across operations.

George Bou Mitri, President of Honeywell Industrial Automation for the Middle East, Turkey, Africa and Central Asia, said: “This new production line marks another important milestone in our localization journey. By producing global renowned devices in Dhahran, we’re equipping Saudi-based industries with the tools they need to digitalize oper,tions, boost productivity and drive efficiency – all while creating in-country value and supporting the Kingdom’s industrial ambitions under Vision 2030.”

Honeywell’s ongoing investment in Saudi Arabia underscored its long-standing contribution to the Kingdom’s industrial development. With nearly half of its Saudi workforce composed of nationals, the company continued to focus on technology transfer, skills development and innovation. This approach reflected Honeywell’s commitment to nurturing local talent and delivering sustainable industrial growth from within the Kingdom.

EMSTEEL launches private 5G network. (Image source: EMSTEEL)

Logistics

The bonded rail corridor will enable seamless goods movement. (Image source: Etihad Rail)

Logistics

UAE launches bonded rail corridor between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah

His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Member of the Executive Council and Chairman of Etihad Rail, has witnessed the signing of a preliminary agreement to establish a new bonded rail corridor between Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi and Fujairah Terminals.

The agreement, signed by Etihad Rail, Abu Dhabi Customs, Fujairah Customs, Abu Dhabi Ports Group, Fujairah Terminals, and Noatum Logistics, was announced during the second edition of Global Rail 2025. The initiative is set to enhance the efficiency, safety, and integration of rail transport across the UAE.

Sheikh Theyab welcomed the project as a milestone in strengthening the nation’s logistics and trade infrastructure. He said the corridor would reinforce the UAE’s position as a global trade gateway, while also supporting the country’s Net Zero 2050 commitments.

The bonded rail corridor will enable seamless goods movement between Khalifa Port, Fujairah Terminals, and their adjacent free zones. By streamlining customs procedures, the initiative will reduce clearance times, ensure smoother entry and exit processes, and complete final formalities at the destination.

Looking ahead

Through the collaboration, Etihad Rail aims to provide secure, safe, and sustainable cargo transport via the national rail network. Goods shipped through the corridor will also benefit from priority clearance, giving customers a competitive advantage for transit shipments, exports, and domestic trade between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.

Pilot operations are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2025. Ahead of the launch, Etihad Rail and its partners are working with authorities and customers to formalise cooperation frameworks, roll out services, and establish performance monitoring mechanisms to guarantee efficiency and quality.

Looking ahead, the corridor will be expanded to additional stations across the network, with new services and technologies introduced to deliver further efficiencies. The project aligns with the UAE’s strategy to modernise customs procedures, improve transport safety, and advance sustainability goals, cementing the country’s role as a hub for regional and global trade.

The inauguration was attended by Siemens Mobility leadership and Saudi government representatives. (Image source: Siemens Mobility)

Energy

OEG secures three multi-year Qatar contracts, investing in new equipment and expanding operations across the Middle East. (Image source: OEG)

Energy

OEG strengthens Middle East market presence

OEG has strengthened its presence in the Middle East with three multi-year contract awards and renewals in Qatar, reinforcing the company’s long-standing partnerships and commitment to sustainable regional growth

The agreements cover the rental of nearly 700 units, including technical and lifting assets, cementing long-term collaboration with a leading oilfield services company, another major service provider, and a prominent E&P organisation.

To support these operations, OEG has invested around US$6mn in approximately 650 new pieces of advanced equipment, specifically designed for the challenging conditions of the Middle East. This investment enhances OEG’s market position and customer retention across Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait, and is projected to generate up to US$2.8mn in year-on-year growth while strengthening its regional operational footprint.

The company has also expanded its team, adding 10 employees across industrial gases, HSEQ, finance, and operations. In the UAE, this includes Peter Steyn as Regional Sales Manager, Abdulhalim Khamis as Senior HSEQ Manager, and Suresh Shanmugam as Industrial Gas Specialist.

With 35,000 m² of yard and office space across the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, OEG’s 40-strong regional team now operates one of the most advanced hubs for high-volume unit handling in the region.

The largest of the new contracts covers more than 550 assets, including enhanced oil recovery, and introduces OEG’s technical innovation: IMDG-certified nitrogen quads mated with a DNV-certified lifting frame. This solution allows higher-pressure gas delivery without additional boosting equipment, improving safety, efficiency, and operational flexibility.

The second agreement, executed through OEG’s local partner Venture Gulf Engineering, a subsidiary of Al Nasar Holdings, involves around 120 cargo container units (CCUs) and continues the companies’ long-standing partnership.

The third is a contract extension until next June, building on a collaboration established in 2019, which now utilises over 2,000 OEG assets.

Chris Kleinhans, OEG regional director for the Middle East, said, “We’re very proud to continue the momentum for our business in Qatar through this trio of contracts. They reflect the strength of the relationships we’ve built across the region and the confidence our clients have in our integrated, full-service capability to deliver a rapid and reliable response.

“Our One Energy Group model is creating real value and positioning us for sustainable growth, both regionally and globally, as we diversify into new industrial markets. For example, one of the Qatar contract extensions expands our existing scope with the client by around 40%. It also opens opportunities in adjacent sectors for our new nitrogen quad transportation solution — including healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture — where demand for industrial gases continues to rise. Together, these achievements further anchor OEG for its next phase of growth across traditional and emerging energy sectors in the region.”

OEG secures three multi-year Qatar contracts, investing in new equipment and expanding operations across the Middle East. (Image source: OEG)

The collaboration expands ongoing technical studies by Decahydron and SNOC. (Image source: Decahydron)

Water

ServeU drives water innovation with PureBlue Water

Water

Can decentralised systems redefine UAE water management?

In a strategic move advancing the UAE’s sustainability agenda, ServeU LLC, the facilities management subsidiary of Union Properties PJSC, has entered a partnership with PureBlue Water, a Dutch specialist in decentralised wastewater treatment technologies

The collaboration aims to deploy advanced distributed water treatment systems across residential, commercial, industrial, and leisure developments throughout the UAE.

ServeU brings its extensive regional presence and integrated facilities management capabilities, while PureBlue Water contributes its compact, high-efficiency treatment modules designed to operate at source rather than rely on large centralised sewer networks. These systems bypass extensive pressurised pipelines and traditional large-plant infrastructure, offering faster deployment, reduced construction and maintenance costs, and enhanced operational efficiency. The treated effluent is suitable for reuse on-site, such as for irrigation of golf courses, rooftop gardens, and shaded community spaces, thereby conserving freshwater resources and promoting greener landscapes.

Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the UAE’s climate action objectives, this initiative underscores a shift toward circular economy water management and sustainable infrastructure delivery. ServeU’s commitment to embedding sustainable solutions across its operations is reinforced through this venture, as the company accelerates its transformation into a provider of smart, environmentally conscious built environment services.

Together, ServeU and PureBlue Water are delivering a model for the future, where modern infrastructure supports efficient water reuse, cost-effective operation, and the creation of sustainable ecosystems across the UAE’s built environment sectors.

ServeU drives water innovation with PureBlue Water

Construction

LANDCROS ushers in smart construction era

Construction

Hitachi Construction Machinery rebrands as LANDCROS

Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. (HCM) has announced that it will undergo a transformation and rebrand as LANDCROS, effective April 2027

As the construction and mining industries enter a new era, global demand is shifting toward faster, smarter, and more sustainable methods of developing infrastructure and housing, despite challenges such as a shrinking skilled workforce, rising costs, and tighter deadlines. In response, Hitachi Construction Machinery is reinventing itself to stand alongside its customers and distribution partners, leading this transformation together.

Solutions beyond machinery

The name ‘LANDCROS’ embodies the company’s determination to deliver innovative solutions to customers worldwide in the construction and mining sectors.

This rebranding marks a renewed commitment to accelerate the company’s evolution, representing its dedication to creating and delivering greater value in collaboration with customers well into the future.

Francesco Quaranta, HCM europe president & CEO, stated, “LANDCROS represents our commitment to go beyond machinery, empowering customers with intelligent, connected, and sustainable solutions. It is based on a partnership philosophy, working openly with technology leaders, integrating cutting-edge digital and AI capabilities into machines that symbolise reliability in the construction industry, whilst creating a reimagined customer experience from ground to cloud.”

This transformation builds upon HCM’s trusted dealer network, the foundation of its success. Together, the company and its partners aim to redefine the customer experience by integrating AI, data, design, and human ingenuity to help build a more sustainable future.

LANDCROS ushers in smart construction era

Mining

Saudi Arabia awards Bechtel EPCM contract for gold mine

Maaden has awarded a major EPCM contract to Bechtel for its Ar Rjum gold mine.

This follows Maaden’s Final Investment Decision (FID) in August 2025 as part of its plan to double gold production by 2030.

Under the US$104mn agreement, Bechtel will provide EPCM services for constructing the mine and processing facilities.

The multi-year contract supports the development of Ar Rjum, located in the Makkah Region, roughly 200 km northeast of Ta’if.

The mine is projected to yield 3.6 million ounces of gold over a 12-year life-of-mine period, featuring an open-pit operation and a processing facility handling eight million tons of ore annually.

Bob Wilt, CEO of Maaden, said, “The Ar Rjum Project is a major milestone in Maaden’s journey to strengthen our portfolio. We have ambitious targets for our gold business and Ar Rjum will be a major component of our ability to double production, as well as to grow at pace and continue to build our pipeline of talent to deliver our strategy.”

Ailie MacAdam, president, Bechtel Mining & Metals, added, “In partnership with Maaden and leveraging Bechtel’s global supply chain of more than 7,000 suppliers along with our strong local partnerships, we’re proud to support a project that advances long-term regional growth and prosperity.”

The successful bidders include four consortia

Manufacturing

EMSTEEL launches private 5G network. (Image source: EMSTEEL)

Manufacturing

EMSTEEL launches UAE’s first private 5g network in manufacturing

EMSTEEL Group has successfully piloted a private 5G network, in collaboration with e& UAE, the flagship telecom arm of global technology group e&.

The initiative represents a major milestone in EMSTEEL’s Industry 4.0 journey and supports the UAE’s national strategy for industry, Operation 300bn, by enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability across its production facilities.

The private 5G network delivers high-speed, reliable coverage throughout EMSTEEL’s extensive and complex industrial environments, overcoming the limitations of traditional connectivity solutions. With data securely managed on EMSTEEL’s on-premise infrastructure, the network enables the integration of advanced technology projects, including the Asset Insight platform.

The Asset Insight application was the first to be demonstrated on the network. Using industry-grade tablets, workers can scan QR codes on equipment to access real-time documentation, maintenance history, and sensor data. The app also allows staff to generate maintenance requests instantly, helping to minimise downtime and repair costs while improving efficiency and safety.

Eng. Saeed Ghumran Al Remeithi, group CEO of EMSTEEL, said, “Our partnership with e& UAE to launch the World’s first private 5G network in manufacturing represents a landmark achievement in EMSTEEL’s digital transformation journey. It is more than a technological upgrade; it is a fundamental shift in how we operate, innovate, and ensure the safety of our people and assets. The Asset Insight platform is a powerful example of how we are translating Industry 4.0 principles into tangible operational benefits. This pilot launch reinforces our commitment to pioneering sustainable and efficient manufacturing practices, setting a new benchmark for the industrial sector both regionally and globally.”

“This transformative private 5G deployment with EMSTEEL exemplifies our vision of enabling the industries of tomorrow through cutting-edge connectivity. By delivering enterprise-grade network infrastructure tailored for demanding manufacturing environments, we are unlocking possibilities for smart factories, predictive maintenance, and AI-driven operations. At e&, we are committed to partnering with industry leaders like EMSTEEL to co-create solutions that don’t just connect devices, but fundamentally reimagine how industries operate and contribute to a more sustainable future,” added Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, CEO of e& UAE.

The successful pilot underscores EMSTEEL’s commitment to investing in advanced technologies that enhance operational performance while strengthening its position as a global leader in low-carbon steel production and sustainable building materials. This technology strategy extends beyond manufacturing, with potential applications in commercial operations, customer experience, health and safety, sustainability, data utility, research and development, and more.

EMSTEEL launches private 5G network. (Image source: EMSTEEL)

Logistics

IVECO and MTT deliver first Eurocargo trucks to Iraq

IVECO and its long-term partner MTT, through EuroMT Srl bodybuilder, have begun delivering 20 Eurocargo units to the Directorate of Civil Defense in Iraq.

The first batch of Eurocargo ML180E28 4x2 models marks the debut of firefighting water tankers in Iraq. Each vehicle is equipped with a EuroMT Srl 10,000-litre water tank and a high-performance firefighting pump system, designed to offer flexibility, efficiency, and rapid emergency response capabilities.

Machine Technology Trading Co. (MTT), an official IVECO dealer for several years, is headquartered in Baghdad with a secondary branch in Erbil, Kurdistan Region. The company provides full coverage across Iraq, offering the complete range of IVECO trucks.

Khalid O. Mawlood, general manager of MTT, said, "We are proud that our local Governorate has chosen our company together with IVECO brand for the fleet of firefighting vehicles and we hope to serve this mission as always we did in the past and we will continue to do."

Ali Sheikholmoloki, IVECO business manager for Iraq, added, “In this special year, which IVECO is turning to 50 years, we are celebrating together with our historical partner MTT the delivery of 20 Eurocargo units firefighting water tankers equipped to Al Diwanya Governorate in Iraq. I can proudly say that Eurocargo is the most versatile vehicle in its category which surely will bring us many more achievements in this market for different segments.”

Eurocargo: a multi-mission truck

Eurocargo stands out as a symbol of reliability, flexibility, and versatility. Designed for a fast-changing and competitive market, the model combines strength and agility with a refreshed design that enhances both aesthetics and performance.

Available in over 11,000 variations, the Eurocargo range includes seven gross vehicle weight options, four power ratings, seven gearboxes, and three cab types to meet any operational requirement. Its bumper design allows easy access to the windscreen, while LED Daytime Running Lights and optional Xenon headlights ensure safer night driving. Every design detail, from the reshaped deflector to the UV-filtered windscreen, improves aerodynamics and comfort.

Cab options for every mission

Eurocargo offers three cab types — Day, Sleeper, and Crew — each available with two roof heights. The Day cab is suited for urban use, balancing width and length for ease of manoeuvrability. The Sleeper cab, available in standard or high roof versions, offers overnight accommodation with one or two bunks and up to 260 litres of internal storage. The Crew cab, ideal for construction and emergency services, carries up to six passengers plus the driver, along with essential tools and equipment.

The inauguration was attended by Siemens Mobility leadership and Saudi government representatives. (Image source: Siemens Mobility)

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