Construction

Ashghal has recently unveiled a series of remarkable sustainability milestones achieved across its various building projects since 2022.

The construction industry has historically been associated with immense resource consumption and substantial waste generation.

However, a significant environmental paradigm shift is currently underway in the Middle East. At the forefront of this ecological transformation is Qatar's Public Works Authority, widely recognised as Ashghal. By deploying an advanced, integrated system for waste management, Ashghal has recently unveiled a series of remarkable sustainability milestones achieved across its various building projects since 2022. By prioritising the reusing and recycling of construction and demolition materials, the organisation is systematically reducing the environmental footprint of the nation's rapidly expanding infrastructure.

This ambitious environmental strategy is deeply intertwined with the country's long-term developmental blueprints, specifically the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy. For Ashghal, the transition towards a circular economy is no longer merely a theoretical aspiration but a highly operational reality. The authority's integrated approach dictates that materials previously condemned to landfills are now rigorously managed, recovered, and treated as highly valuable commodities. This systematic methodology not only enhances overall resource utilisation efficiency but also plays a crucial role in mitigating the sheer volume of waste typically generated by large-scale urban development and building initiatives.

The scale of material recovery achieved by Ashghal over the past few years is unprecedented for the region. According to the latest project data, the authority has successfully reused or transferred a staggering 2.5 million cubic metres of excavation materials. Rather than discarding this massive volume of earth and rock, Ashghal strategically redirected it to the specialised recycling yards operated by the Qatar Primary Materials Company (QPMC). At these dedicated facilities, the excavated matter is processed and readied for integration into future construction endeavours, thereby drastically lowering the sector's dependence on the extraction of virgin raw materials. In addition to the earthworks recovery, Ashghal has completely recycled more than 300,000 tonnes of general construction and demolition waste, further cementing its commitment to sustainable building practices.

Beyond earth and rubble, the organisation has implemented highly granular resource recovery protocols directly at the project sites. Timber, a material frequently discarded after limited use in scaffolding and concrete formwork, has seen an exceptional rate of recovery. Ashghal has managed to repurpose approximately 80,000 tonnes of timber waste within the very perimeters of its active project sites. This localised reuse not only prevents landfill overflow but also cuts down on the logistical emissions associated with transporting waste. The authority has also established strict sorting mechanisms for other common project by-products. Consequently, an impressive 7,000 tonnes of plastic waste, 3,000 tonnes of paper waste, and 1,000 tonnes of scrap metal have been successfully diverted to officially approved recycling facilities.

Perhaps most remarkably, Ashghal’s comprehensive waste diversion efforts extend well beyond conventional construction debris. The authority has also taken responsibility for the everyday biological waste generated across its extensive network of project sites and workforce accommodations. Nearly 8,000 tonnes of food waste have been successfully recovered through this holistic environmental programme. Rather than allowing this organic refuse to decompose in municipal dumps and generate harmful greenhouse gases, Ashghal has ensured it is systematically converted into organic compost or expertly processed at designated treatment facilities. This organic conversion process represents a vital component of the circular economy, transforming discarded meals into agricultural inputs that can support local landscaping and greening projects. Such detailed attention to every waste stream highlights the meticulous nature of the authority's operations.

Through these multifaceted initiatives, Qatar's Public Works Authority is proving that massive infrastructure development does not have to come at the expense of the environment. By carefully managing, reusing, and recycling millions of tonnes of varied waste materials, Ashghal is establishing a robust blueprint for the future of sustainable construction. These achievements highlight how proactive governmental leadership can drive industry-wide change, encouraging private contractors and developers to adopt similar green methodologies. Ultimately, the organisation's unwavering dedication to circular economy principles ensures that Qatar continues to build its physical landscape while simultaneously protecting its natural ecosystem for generations to come.

The Egyptian real estate landscape has witnessed a significant milestone as Jora Developments officially commenced construction on its flagship iXORA Residence project located in Hadayek October City.

The Egyptian real estate landscape has witnessed a significant milestone as Jora Developments officially commenced construction on its flagship iXORA Residence project located in Hadayek October City.

This major development marks the company's formal entry into the integrated residential communities segment, drawing upon more than 15 years of proven experience in the local property market. By breaking ground less than a year after the initial project launch, the organisation has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to streamlining regulatory compliance and protecting prospective buyers' interests.

Atef Morsi, Chairman of JORA Developments, said that the launch of construction represents a key milestone in the company's growth strategy. He further noted that the meticulously planned residential community is being developed on a sprawling 43,000 square metre site. Crucially, more than 75% of the total area has been explicitly allocated to landscaped green spaces, open zones, and modern recreational amenities. This design philosophy is intended to provide residents with expansive open views, enhanced privacy, and a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle environment.

Strategically positioned in the heart of Hadayek October on Ahmed Zewail Road, the compound enjoys close proximity to Al Wahat Road, the Mall of Egypt, and Dreamland. The site benefits from seamless connectivity via three main access roads, placing it within easy reach of top-tier educational, commercial, and recreational destinations. To ensure timely delivery, the developer has already fulfilled nearly 80% of the land value and successfully secured a significant portion of the required construction materials. Consequently, the executive team is targeting a complete handover within an ambitious 30-month timeframe, keeping fully aligned with their projected construction schedule.

Architecturally, the master plan was crafted by renowned engineering consultant Mohamed Hafez, incorporating modern design concepts that prioritise resident wellbeing and functional elegance. The residential apartments range in size from 111 square metres to 173 square metres, offering carefully optimised layouts that maximise natural light and interior ventilation. Additionally, the development features a dedicated 1,500 square metre commercial, administrative, medical, and service area designed to provide comprehensive day-to-day conveniences right at the doorstep of every homeowner.

Complementing the residential structures, the project boasts an array of lifestyle amenities, including swimming pools, a mosque, dedicated cycling lanes, well-paved internal roads, and secure underground parking facilities equipped with separate access points. Ahmed Adel, Chief Commercial Director at JORA Developments, said that iXORA Residence was planned to balance product quality with investment value by offering efficient unit layouts and relatively low loading ratios compared with competing developments. These thoughtful inclusions ensure a superior living standard for families seeking long-term value.

Capitalising on the robust market momentum generated by the ground-breaking ceremony, the firm has officially launched the third phase of iXORA Residence. To accommodate diverse financial requirements across different client segments, the newly introduced phase features flexible payment structures designed to ease purchasing pressures. Prospective buyers can secure their units with an initial 5% down payment followed by convenient instalments spread across six years. Alternatively, clients can opt for a 10% down payment with a seven-year repayment tenure, or a 15% down payment extending up to eight years.

Industry experts note that obtaining essential regulatory approvals—such as the land allocation notice, land handover record, ministerial decree, and building permit—prior to commencing construction highlights the firm's rigorous corporate governance. By pairing transparent legal procedures with robust construction schedules and highly attractive payment terms, Jora Developments is setting a remarkable benchmark for residential projects across West Cairo. The initiative successfully caters to modern families and savvy property investors looking for secure, high-yield assets in a thriving urban corridor.

The United States-based engineering giant Fluor Corporation has officially announced its selection by the Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC) for a vital new contract.

The global petrochemical sector is witnessing a significant transformation as nations in the Middle East diversify their industrial capabilities and expand their downstream production networks.

The Kingdom of Bahrain is making robust strides to enhance its manufacturing infrastructure and economic footprint. In a major development for the region’s energy and petrochemical landscape, the United States-based engineering giant Fluor Corporation has officially announced its selection by the Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC) for a vital new contract. The Texas-headquartered firm will be responsible for executing the front-end engineering and design (FEED) for an advanced new aromatics facility situated within the Kingdom of Bahrain.

This strategic contract marks a pivotal moment for GPIC, a prominent industry player originally established as a joint venture among Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states to spearhead the regional manufacture of fertilisers and petrochemicals. The upcoming aromatics project is designed to significantly expand GPIC’s existing industrial complex in Bahrain. At present, the facility is highly regarded for its steady production of core chemical commodities, specifically ammonia, urea, and methanol. By integrating the new aromatics plant into this established footprint, GPIC is poised to elevate its manufacturing capabilities, diversify its product portfolio, and capture a broader segment of the international petrochemical market.

The new aromatics facility will utilise commercially proven process technologies, ensuring maximum efficiency, safety, and output quality to achieve these ambitious targets. Once fully operational, the plant is projected to yield an impressive annual production capacity. Specifically, it will generate 1.2 million metric tonnes of paraxylene, alongside 0.5 million metric tonnes of benzene each year. The selection of these particular chemical compounds is highly strategic. Both paraxylene and benzene serve as critical foundational building blocks for a vast array of modern manufacturing applications. They are essential components in the creation of plastics, polyester fibres, and various vital packaging materials. By bolstering the supply chain of these core materials, the Bahrain-based facility will play a critical role in supporting the ever-growing global demand for high-performance consumer goods and heavy-duty industrial products.

For Fluor Corporation, this contract represents yet another prestigious addition to an already extensive portfolio of global engineering achievements. Recognised globally as a premier provider of comprehensive engineering, procurement, construction, and maintenance services, Fluor boasts a diverse expertise that spans multiple critical sectors, including oil and gas, heavy industrial manufacturing, infrastructure development, government projects, and power generation. Securing this front-end engineering and design contract highlights the company’s proven track record in successfully managing large-scale industrial expansions and navigating the complexities inherent in modern petrochemical construction.

The leadership team at Fluor has expressed strong enthusiasm regarding the newly established collaboration with GPIC. Pierre Bechelany, Fluor’s Business Group President of Energy Solutions, articulated the significance of the partnership and the mutual trust established between the two industry heavyweights. Addressing the recent contract acquisition, Bechelany stated, “This award reflects GPIC's confidence in Fluor's ability to deliver complex petrochemical projects with technical excellence and predictable outcomes.”

Highlighting the long-term impact of the aromatics facility on the region’s economic landscape, he further added, “We look forward to supporting GPIC as it advances this important investment for the Kingdom of Bahrain's industrial future.”

The successful execution of this front-end engineering and design phase will lay the essential groundwork for the subsequent stages of construction and commissioning. The expansion of the GPIC complex not only reinforces the Kingdom of Bahrain’s status as a central hub for advanced petrochemical manufacturing but also demonstrates the immense value of strategic international partnerships. By combining Fluor Corporation’s world-class engineering acumen with GPIC’s established regional presence and operational excellence, the new aromatics facility is exceptionally well-positioned to drive robust industrial growth, stimulate economic diversification, and supply the global market with indispensable high-quality petrochemical products for decades to come.

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 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.