Construction

The Middle East is currently overseeing some of the world's most ambitious infrastructure developments, driving unprecedented demand for high-grade construction materials. Wet processing experts CDE have partnered with Stevin Rock to deliver two major sand and aggregates wash plants at the Al Ghail facility in the United Arab Emirates.

The Middle East is currently overseeing some of the world's most ambitious infrastructure developments, driving unprecedented demand for high-grade construction materials.

Wet processing experts CDE have partnered with Stevin Rock to deliver two major sand and aggregates wash plants at the Al Ghail facility in the United Arab Emirates. Suppliers must embrace advanced technologies to increase output without compromising quality.

The World’s largest limestone operation

Stevin Rock is one of the world's leading suppliers of rock products for the construction, marine engineering, manufacturing, and industrial sectors. With reserves exceeding 3.5 billion tonnes, the organisation boasts a production capacity of over 100 million tonnes per annum.

Operating a private harbour connected to Saqr Port, it exports throughout the GCC and to the Asia-Pacific, including:

• India

• Bangladesh

• Madagascar

• Maldives

Advanced wet processing at Al Ghail

To maintain this colossal output, Stevin Rock has turned to CDE for a state-of-the-art technological intervention. The collaboration involves deploying two wash plants designed to process a highly challenging, clay-rich crushed limestone feed at the Ras Al Khaimah site.

A 250 tonnes per hour plant is already operational, successfully enhancing the site's processing capabilities. A flagship 1,000 tonnes per hour wash plant is scheduled to be commissioned in Q3 2027. Together, these installations will guarantee the production of consistent, in-spec aggregates essential for major regional infrastructure.

Brian Howard, Group Projects Director for Stevin Rock, emphasised the strategic importance of the upgrade: ‘This project represents a significant milestone for Stevin Rock as we grow our production capacity to over 100 million tons per annum and reflects our commitment to investing in world class technologies that deliver operational excellence while supporting our long-term sustainability ambitions. We are proud to partner with CDE to deliver this ambitious, global scale project, that will set a new benchmark in sand and gravel washing, demonstrating our shared commitment to resource efficiency, reduction of waste and sustainable supply of high-quality materials for years to come.’

Fuelling the infrastructure of tomorrow

Stevin Rock's materials have historically supported iconic developments, including:

• The Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah in Dubai

• Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi

• The World Islands development

• Ras Laffan Port in Qatar, housing the largest Liquefied Natural Gas export facility on the planet

A current focus is supplying materials for Dubai's new Al Maktoum International Airport. When fully complete, it will be five times the size of Dubai International Airport, including over 400 terminal gates to handle over 260 million passengers per year.

Mr Bassem Idriss, CDE’s head of operations for the Middle East and Africa, commented: “Phase one of this mega project is currently on track to open by 2032 and Stevin Rock is one of the key suppliers that has been mobilised to help ensure these timelines are met. To sustain urgent demand for this project and others, Stevin Rock needs to produce 100 million tonnes of material over the next five years, which is no small feat.

“CDE has over 130 plants in operation in the Middle East today. Our technology has supported some of the most ambitious construction and infrastructure projects in the region and we’ve clearly demonstrated our capability to deliver at scale while maintaining quality and consistency.

“So, we’re extremely proud of the positive impact our technology has had across the UAE and how it has brought us to this moment where, in partnership with Stevin Rock, we will continue to build on that legacy by helping build the world's most technologically advanced airport.”

A commitment to regional growth

This large-scale industrial deployment also reflects broader economic and technological cooperation. Swathi Sri, Head of Territory for India, Middle East & Africa at Invest Northern Ireland, congratulated the company and said, “CDE's achievement demonstrates their technological expertise in wet processing solutions as well as the region’s appetite for new technology. The in-market team supported the company with various business development initiatives, including hosting an inward visit by Stevin Rock. We are proud of CDE Group’s ongoing success in the region and will continue to support their ambitious growth in these vibrant markets." 

Chinese engineering and construction firm SEPCOIII has officially announced the full commercial operation of the Saudi Red Sea Utility Infrastructure Project.

Chinese engineering and construction firm SEPCOIII has officially announced the full commercial operation of the Saudi Red Sea Utility Infrastructure Project.

This achievement marks a significant milestone for Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 programme. By seamlessly blending renewable power generation, substantial battery storage, and advanced water management, the multi-utility project sets a new global benchmark for sustainable tourism development. It demonstrates how luxury hospitality can thrive independently of interconnected national power grids, offering an operating example for similar isolated networks globally.

The vision for off-grid tourism infrastructure

The Red Sea development is engineered to be one of the world's most ambitious regenerative tourism destinations. However, establishing a luxury footprint in a remote, ecologically sensitive coastal region requires a radical departure from conventional utility solutions. Extending traditional transmission lines and water pipelines is frequently uneconomic and environmentally disruptive.

To address these distinct geographical and ecological challenges, the mega-resort relies entirely on a self-sustaining microgrid. The successful commercialisation of this integrated utility project underscores the kingdom's serious commitment to sustainable infrastructure within its giga-projects. For investors and developers eyeing the wider region, reliable, green utility infrastructure is a fundamental differentiator, enhancing long-term value and livability while safeguarding natural habitats.

Integrated systems powering the Red Sea

SEPCOIII, a wholly owned subsidiary of POWERCHINA, delivered the venture under an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) agreement. It is widely recognised as the first utility-scale commercial installation globally to integrate multiple complementary power and utility systems of this magnitude.

Rather than just focusing on power generation, the comprehensive package provides all essential services to luxury hotels and tourism facilities across the destination. Under the EPC contract, the interconnected infrastructure components delivered include:

• A 358 MWac solar photovoltaic (PV) generation plant.

• A battery-based energy storage system (BESS) featuring a capacity of more than 1,300 MWh.

• Robust electrical grid systems and telecommunications infrastructure.

• Seawater desalination plants paired with potable water distribution lines.

• Complete wastewater conveyance networks and advanced sewage treatment facilities.

• Sustainable solid-waste processing and district cooling setups.

Setting global records in renewable energy

The transition to full commercial operation represents the completion of the wider multi-utility package, bringing online assets that have been progressively commissioned since 2023. The project was developed under a public-private partnership structure, bolstered by a long-term offtake agreement supported by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). Key technology partners included major Chinese suppliers for the energy storage and solar modules.

Because of its unprecedented scale and innovative integration, the multi-utility microgrid has garnered substantial international acclaim. Its technical advancements and eco-conscious construction methods have resulted in numerous industry accolades:

• A Guinness World Record in 2025 for the world's largest off-grid battery energy storage project by capacity.

• The prestigious 2022 MUSE Design Gold Award.

• The 2026 Renewable Energy Innovation of the Year Award.

• The 2026 Sustainable Construction Project of the Year Award.

Economic and Environmental Impact

Beyond the immediate environmental benefits of displacing fossil fuels and preserving the pristine coastal ecosystem, the utility mega-project delivers robust economic advantages. The broader Red Sea development, propelled by this foundational infrastructure, is projected to create approximately 70,000 jobs. Furthermore, it is expected to contribute an estimated SAR 22 billion to the national GDP.

By successfully bringing this colossal system to full commercial operation, SEPCOIII has demonstrated that large-scale renewable energy, storage, water, and waste systems can be seamlessly combined to support sustainable tourism in isolated locations. The technical and operational lessons learned from this record-breaking installation will undoubtedly pave the way for future off-grid developments, proving that high-end luxury and absolute sustainability can cohesively coexist.

ICC is set to participate as an exhibitor at the highly anticipated Big 5 Construct Saudi 2026.

The construction landscape across Saudi Arabia is currently undergoing a period of unprecedented expansion, fundamentally reshaping the region's urban footprint.

With major developments and vital infrastructure projects progressing rapidly across the Kingdom, the built environment is increasing in both sheer scale and structural complexity. As the ambition of these engineering feats reaches new heights, the foundational requirement for rigorous safety, design, and execution standards has never been more critical.

Today, the industry is navigating increasingly sophisticated requirements that span architectural design, complex engineering, strict fire safety protocols, and comprehensive construction compliance. The effective application of established building codes and robust regulations remains the central pillar in delivering safe, resilient, and fully compliant infrastructure that will stand the test of time.

Facilitating Compliance at Big 5 Construct Saudi 2026

Against this backdrop of rapid national development, the International Code Council (ICC) is set to participate as an exhibitor at the highly anticipated Big 5 Construct Saudi 2026. Taking place from the 30th of August to the 2nd of September 2026 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Centre, the event serves as a crucial meeting point for industry leaders and decision-makers.

The ICC will use this major regional platform to facilitate vital conversations designed specifically to help construction professionals better understand the local regulatory landscape. The primary objective is to assist practitioners in successfully navigating the practical, day-to-day requirements of the Saudi Building Code (SBC).

To directly address these industry-wide challenges, the ICC is bringing together leading regional experts for a dedicated three-part educational programme. This initiative is heavily focused on the future of code compliance, the core tenets of the Saudi Building Code, and the crucial practical application of these regulations across the Kingdom's active construction sites. Scheduled for the 31st of August at the Big 5 Talks Theatre in Hall 1, the tailored programme aims to move beyond basic theory.

The dedicated ICC schedule includes the following key sessions aimed at standardising safety and quality:

• Opening Keynote Presentation: Dr Fahad Saud Allahaim, Chairman of the Technical Committee of the Residential Building Code at the Saudi Building Code National Committee and Assistant Professor at King Saud University, will examine the pivotal role of the SBC in advancing project outcomes, elevating quality, and enforcing national safety standards.

• Practical Compliance Workshop: Titled ‘Navigating the Saudi Building Code: Key Requirements and Compliance Pathways’, this highly focused session will be led by Vortex Fire’s Regional Director, Tom Wood, alongside Senior Fire Engineer, Kareem Morsi. The workshop will offer practical insight into the underlying structure of the SBC, specifically addressing the key requirements of SBC 201 and detailing how to navigate complex compliance pathways.

• Interactive Expert Q&A: The programme will conclude with ‘Applying the Saudi Building Code: Q&A’. This interactive session will give attendees the valuable opportunity to raise specific questions, explore unique project-specific challenges, and gain expert perspectives on applying SBC mandates in real-world practice.

A Commitment to Resilient Regional Construction

The final interactive panel will be moderated by Mohamed Amer, Managing Director – MENA at the International Code Council, alongside Dr Fahad Saud Allahaim and Kareem Morsi.

Highlighting the strategic importance of this engagement, Mohamed Amer, Managing Director – MENA, International Code Council, said: “As Saudi Arabia’s construction sector continues to evolve, ensuring that codes and standards are understood and effectively applied will be critical to supporting safe, high-quality and successful project outcomes. Big 5 Construct Saudi provides an important platform for bringing together the industry’s experts and practitioners to have meaningful conversations around compliance. This three-part program is designed to move beyond the theory of code requirements and give professionals practical insights they can apply to projects across the Kingdom.”

The ICC’s participation at the event strongly reinforces its ongoing commitment to supporting industry professionals with the knowledge, essential resources, and expertise required for building safety. Visitors to Big 5 Construct Saudi are openly invited to meet the ICC team at Stand 2A160 to learn more about the organisation's work and to explore how rigorous building codes and standards can actively support safer, more resilient, and fully compliant construction across Saudi Arabia and the wider region.

Object 1 has officially launched SkyLife 1 (also known as SkyLevel 1), a versatile 35-storey residential tower situated in District 11 of the Jumeirah Village Circle area.

Dubai’s mid-market residential sector continues to experience remarkable momentum, driven by high rental yields, sustained urban expansion, and an increasing appetite for technology-enabled living spaces.

Capitalising on this sustained growth, property developer Object1 has officially launched SkyLife 1 (also known as SkyLevel 1), a versatile 35-storey residential tower situated in District 11 of the Jumeirah Village Circle area. Scheduled for handover in the second quarter of 2029, the development brings a sophisticated blend of contemporary architecture, forward-looking amenities, and intelligent living solutions to one of the emirate's most active residential districts.

Architectural Profile and Key Project Features

SkyLevel 1 draws direct architectural inspiration from the concepts of modern urban living and elevated sky-centric designs. The high-rise project introduces a distinct visual identity to Object 1’s expanding development portfolio within Jumeirah Village Circle. Across its 35 levels, the scheme is engineered to balance functional residential spaces with commercial and recreational infrastructure.

Key details of the development include:

• Residential Inventory: 420 contemporary single-bedroom apartments engineered for modern urban living.

• Structural Scale: A 35-storey tower featuring residential units, commercial office space, retail units, and dedicated parking facilities.

• Rooftop Facilities: An expansive upper rooftop platform housing leisure amenities and panoramic observation spaces.

• Target Delivery: Full project completion scheduled for the second quarter of 2029.

Connectivity and Jumeirah Village Circle Growth

Positioned in District 11, SkyLevel 1 benefits from rapid connectivity to Dubai’s premier commercial, educational, and leisure hubs. The project sits just two minutes from Circle Mall, with straightforward access to major destinations such as Dubai Hills Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Palm Jumeirah.

The surrounding area has witnessed significant accessibility enhancements following the completion of the Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) major road development corridor between Sheikh Zayed Road and surrounding arterial highways. This infrastructure upgrade has effectively doubled bidirectional road capacity and slashed transit times to approximately four minutes.

According to the Dubai Rental Market Report 2025 by Homes, Jumeirah Village Circle remains among the most stable and sought-after locations for medium-cost apartments, having recorded an annual average rental price increase of 8.59% compared to 2024. This consistent performance continues to draw robust interest from both institutional investors and end-users seeking family-friendly community infrastructure and reliable capital growth.

Strong Market Dynamics and Leadership Insights

The official introduction of SkyLevel 1 aligns with an unprecedented surge across Dubai’s wider property sector. During the first quarter of 2026, the emirate recorded AED 252 billion in real estate transactions, marking an impressive 31% expansion compared to the same period in 2025.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the launch, Tatiana Tono, CEO of Object 1, stated:

“The SkyLevel 1 project marks our first new launch in 2026, and we continue to work on it with the same disciplined approach we have taken to deliveries and completion this year. In the first half of the year, two of our projects received certificates of completion of construction, while several others are preparing for delivery. These achievements reinforce our confidence in further expanding into the circular village of Jumeirah, an area where accessibility, strong rental demand and long-term value support end users continues."

Next-Generation Digital Amenities and Wellness

Setting a modern benchmark for residential technology, SkyLevel 1 incorporates artificial intelligence and smart living solutions throughout its communal and private spaces. The rooftop platform features the Sky Infinity Pool, sun-lounging areas, and a dedicated Sky observation platform equipped with digital telescopes for real-time observation of stars, planets, and satellites.

Residents will also have access to an AI-supported smart wellness zone featuring interactive smart mirrors that provide real-time movement analysis, posture correction, and tailored workout guidance. For families, the development includes interactive spaces such as a digital colouring wall that transforms children's drawings into dynamic digital experiences, alongside comprehensive smart access systems designed for modern security and convenience.

With handover slated for 2029, SkyLevel 1 underpins Object 1’s strategy of addressing future urban living demands through technologically sophisticated, investor-friendly residential developments in high-performing Dubai submarkets.