Al Fara'a kick-starts construction of Manhattan Apartments at Jumeirah
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
The groundbreaking ceremony was conducted just after the successful launch of Manhattan Luxury Apartments at the recent Cityscape Dubai 2007, when the project generated considerable buyer interest, with more than 72 percent of the project, being sold out.The construction contract for the luxury apartments has been handed over to Al Fara'a General Contracting Company (AFGCO) and their team of qualified professionals. AFGCO has a successful history of more than 26 years in implementing projects around UAE, such as the Al Attar Tower, Rotana Hotel, and the Sheikh Mansoor bin Zayed Tower, among others.
Alongside the sidelines of groundbreaking ceremony, Al Fara'a Properties has registered for an Escrow Account with Emirates Islamic Bank, in compliance with regulations stipulated by Dubai Land Department.
The Manhattan Luxury Apartments draws inspiration from the 1930's urban residences of New York, comprising 355 elegant units with a classic selection of studio, single, double and triple bedroom apartments. These apartments, coupled with the stunning landscapes of Jumeirah Village, have been so designed to include well-planned master bedrooms, generous walk-in closets, beautifully appointed bathrooms, and spacious and comfortable interiors with distinctive accent lighting. The other amenities within the complex include state-of-the-art gymnasium, a swimming pool with sauna and steam facilities, and children play area.
The General Manager for AFGCO, Ahmad Maarouf said "Our vast experience in construction business has provided us with utmost confidence in handling a high-profile project like Manhattan Apartments. The strength of our expertise will ensure that we live up to our reputation of delivering quality work within prescribed time frame."
The company has committed that the works would be complete within 24 months, towards end of 2009.
Labels: Apartments, Construction Projects, Jumeriah Village, Luxury Homes, Real Estate Company
Aldar's new Head Quarters to be opened at Al Raha Beach
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
The contract for the construction works has been handed over to a joint-venture company between Aldar and Laing O'Rourke. The new building with be the first spherical building in the Middle East, and will cater to the international business elite. The commercial building features aluminium and glass exterior with underground parking facility, marble floors and walls and turnstile security, considered to be Category A International Office.With 110 meters in height, Aldar will occupy about 20 percent of the building and the rest will be leased out to multinational corporations in the city. Out of the total net area of 51,361 sq mt., the gross floor area of Aldar will cover 61,900 square meters. The building, despite its round shape, boasts of high-floor usage efficiency of 78 percent. The average footplate per floor is 1600 square meters. The signature development of Aldar, on completion, will comprise hotels, offices and retail space, all of which encompass a large public marina.
The CEO of Aldar Properties, Ronald Barrot, said "Aldar is the benchmark for quality commercial space in Abu Dhabi. Al Raha Beach, the most extensive of projects, is the ultimate location for our offices and growth in the future."
The Project Director of Al Raha Beach project, Michael Cox, said "The geometric shape of the building is a symbol of rationality, modernity, stability and unity. While providing a headquarters for Aldar, we also look forward to welcome other companies seeking offices that meet international standards."
The development is slated for completion towards end of 2009.
Labels: Abu Dhabi, Al Raha Beach, Aldar
Masdar City Phase One, scheduled for completion by 2010

The Chief Executive of Masdar, Sultan Al Jaber, mentioned that Masdar City, located adjacent to Abu Dhabi Airport will be complete towards the fourth quarter of 2009. He said that the Masdar Special Free Zone (SFZ) will promote the synergy between research facilities, academic resources, family businesses, the financial community and entrepreneurs.
The zone will have upto 1500 companies with attractive incentive packages, transparent laws, a one-stop-shop programme, tax-free environment, 100 percent foreign ownership and intellectual property protection. The zone has the added advantage of being located close to suppliers, manufacturers and markets.
Masdar is designed to ensure that Abu Dhabi grows its own share of global energy market by fostering the development and commercialization of innovative and advanced technologies in alternative, renewable and sustainable energies for a safer, cleaner environment and future.
Labels: Abu Dhabi, Freezones, Masdar-city
Emaar launches Armani Residences at Burj Dubai
Designed by Giorgio Armani, the 144 units of Armani Residences offer a unique lifestyle experience, and are the first ever residences to be designed by Giorgio Armani. The Armani Residences complement the Armani Hotel, likely to be opened in 2008 in Dubai, and are the first to be opened on collaboration between Giorgio S.p.A and Emaar.The single and double bedroom luxury residential suits of the Armani Residences, range from 99 sq. mt. to 208 sq. mt. in size, and are decorated with a wide range of Armani/casa home furnishings, clean lines, and the finishes and materials range from zebrawood, stone, fabric, venetian plaster and leather wall coverings. The smart-home technology is the main highlight of the residences that include 100% automated systems for temperature and drapery control, security, lighting and air-conditioning.
Every floor of the Armani Residences has its own elevator access, with full-glass panoramic windows that offer spell-binding views of the Downtown Burj Dubai.
The residents at Armani Residences also have the added benefit of enjoying the amenities at the Armani Hotel Dubai, which complements the Armani Residences, has 160 rooms offering the ultimate in hospitality standards. It offers facilities such as 24-hour room service, concierge, housekeeping, access to library spa, swimming pool and gymnasium and cigar club.
Burj Dubai, by itself, is a mixed-use tower, featuring commercial offices, leisure amenities, and serviced apartments. On its completion during late 2008, the Burj Dubai will be a perfect complement to a vast array of lifestyle options in Burj Dubai, featuring the Burj Dubai Boulevard, The Dubai Mall and various other hospitality and residential projects.
Labels: Burj Dubai, Emmar, Latest News
Dheeeraj East Coast LLC forays into UAE realty sector through a Dh.250m project
Monday, October 29, 2007
The project includes a G+19 storey apartment tower and twin two and three bedroom duplex villas. DEC has also entered into an MOU with global majors such as EMCOR Facilities Services for management of its facilities across all projects in the region, which is currently more than 6.5million square feet of development area. The MOU also stipulates that EMCOR will manage the operations, maintenance, and technical services of Harbour Residences, while also providing soft support services such as ongoing maintenance, concierge, housekeeping, laundry, grocery stocking, 24 hour call centers, security and help desk facilities.The construction work on Harbour Residences will commence during first quarter of 2008. The hotel apartment project will include 187 rooms, a shopping arcade, restaurants and cafes.
The Managing Director of DEC, Dheeraj Wadhawan, mentioned that the this project 'Harbour Residences' will be a valuable addition to the flourishing tourism sector in Dubai, wherein the hospitality sector is currently witnessing tremendous demand for rooms to cater to the increasing tourist traffic.
The project is slated for completion by the year 2010.
Labels: Apartments, Dubai Marina
Ground breaking ceremony held for Dh.85m Champions Tower II
Sunday, October 28, 2007
During the occasion, Memon Investments handed over the shoring and excavation contract of the tower to Stromek Emirates Foundation (SEF). SEF is a subsidiary of M'sharie, and a private equity branch of Dubai Investments.The first phase of construction works, which include excavation, shoring and foundation, will be carried out by the piling company. SEF has assured the completion of the first phase in record time. This the second assignment that SEF is handling with Memon Investments, as currently SEF is also taking care of the foundations works on Champions Tower III development.
The Managing Director of Memon Investments, Ahmed Shaikhani, quoted that considering the expertise with which SEF had completed most other projects, Memon Investments, have no hesitation in handing over the project to SEF. He added that the company is confident that SEF will maintain their quality standard as in all other previous developments and work with true dedication.
Labels: Construction Projects, Dubai Sports City
ALDAR draws high customer interest at Cityscape Dubai 2007
According to statistics received so far, there has been a major demand for Khor Al Raha and Al Bandar, the two realty projects that were showcased at the exhibition. The registered booking confirmation for Khor Al Raha touched more than Dh.750million, and another Dh.300million worth bookings were from investors for land plots.
ALDAR is the Platinum sponsor of Cityscape Dubai 2007 that focuses on the property boom in UAE. ALDAR has a rich portfolio that includes Coconut Island, Al Raha Beach, Al Gurm Resort, Noor Al Ain, and Al Mamoura, including the YAS Island Project.
The CEO of ALDAR, Ronald Barott expressing his pleasure over the level of customer interest shown towards ALDAR's projects, mentioned that this demonstrates the confidence and trust that people have posed on ALDAR to deliver quality properties that meet international standards.
Labels: Aldar, Cityscape, Latest News
Ajman's first smart building project Goldcrest Dreams3 launched
Saturday, October 27, 2007
The exhibition will showcase single, double and triple bedroom apartments, which offers a unique opportunity to buyers to experience real living environment, comprising fully furnished ultra modern residential towers with contemporary German furniture from GBK. The project is equipped with home management solutions from LG Homenet offering a safe and efficient living, thereby making the Goldcrest Dreams3, the first smart project in Ajman.The towers with 25 Storey each are surrounded by waterways, lakes and fountains, and the most affordable five-year interest free plan with installments are being offered, beginning from Dh.2999 per month. The dining and the living rooms are designed by Seidenbacher Mobel. The bedrooms have an attractive and unique design done by HB Collections, and the Kitchens done by Nobila. The LG Homenet solutions offers easy access control of the common entrance and household, by notifying the owners about arrivals of visitors during the owner's absence, vehicle arrival notifications, and such other unique and safe features.
Amir Pardesi, the Vice Chairman of Mazyood Giga International, says "After the huge success of Goldcrest Dreams and Dreams2, we have decided to take community living in Ajman to another level. The Emirates City is a well-planned township, and the Goldcrest Dreams3, with its luxurious offerings will make it an ideal residential community."
Labels: Ajman, Apartments, ETA-Star, Freehold Property
Dubai Maritime City project emphasizes on the green concept
Friday, October 26, 2007

As per the Maritime City's Master Plan, all developers are required to obtain the green building certification under BREEAM (BRE Environmental Assessment Method) or LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design). Thereafter, all the buildings within the Maritime City will be reviewed to assess the level of compliance with the environmental requirements in terms of operations, design and best practices.
The green building design will mainly focus on energy consumption and conservation measures such as minimal use of non-renewable sources, minimal production of indoor environmental waste, and use of solar energy.
The final phase of construction work on the Dubai Maritime City is currently in progress and involves infrastructural development. On completion of works in 2009, DMC will house the Maritime Center, Harbour residences, Harbour offices, an Academic Quarter, a Marina District, and Jadaf Dubai, and industrial quarter.
The CEO of Dubai Maritime City, Amer Ali, said "It is imperative that implementation of strict environmental standards be maintained, as the concept of green offers considerable long-tern investment returns, while also ensuring optimized living and working conditions protecting health of the occupants and effective utilization of resources."
Labels: Construction Projects, Dubai Real Estate, Latest News
Construction work commences on Abu Dhabi's biggest labour accommodation
The Chairman of Al Rayan Investment Company, Fardan Hassan Al Fardan, told that the labour accommodation is being built based on the directives by the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander of UAE Armed Forces, General Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, for creating a safe healthy environment for all workers across UAE.
The contract of the project has been awarded to Abu Dhabi Supplies and Commercial Services. The project will be constructed over a span of nine months, covering an area of 202,000 square meters. The project will feature six compounds encompassing the main building, ranging from shops, banks, modern hypermarkets, dental clinics, medical clinics, post office, travel agency, mosque, food courts, laundry, parts, public spaces and playgrounds.
Construction will take place in two phases, the firs phase will be complete in February 2008 and the second by April 2008.
Labels: Abu Dhabi, Construction Projects
Omniyat Properties commences ground-breaking work on 'The Opus' project
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Designed by the Pritzker Prize winning architect, Zaha Hadid, 'The Opus' is worth more than Dh.1.7billion, and has been set to adorn the Dubai skyline with artistic and iconic architecture. The project, spreading over 85,000 square meters, was unveiled by the CEO of Dubai Properties, Mohammed Binbrek.Being a perfect blend of art and technology, 'The Opus' forms a structure resembling cube with a fluid for "void" in the middle. The Opus will comprise of three individual towers, that are fused together to create the illusion of a single structure.
Located on an island plot in Business Bay, Dubai, The Opus, depicts a waterfront location, offering the most exclusive office real estate in Dubai, The eye-catching views of Burj Dubai, will further enhance the value of the development.
'The Opus' is expected to be completed during early 2010.
Labels: Business Bay, Commercial Property, Construction Projects, Office Space, Omniyat
Aldar's projects Al Muneera and Al Bandar on schedule
Wednesday, October 24, 2007

The foundations of these projects have been laid, and are well-under construction. These projects were show-cased at the Cityscape Dubai 2007 by Aldar. Aldar's participation in the Cityscape could be considered a timely opportunity to focus on construction projects being undertaken by Aldar in Abu Dhabi.
The two projects on the Al Raha Beach are also progressing as scheduled, and are heading towards other construction milestones. The Al Muneera and the Al Bandar construction works are also likely to reach their targets for completion. The Al Bandar construction is in full swing with the piling work and infrastructure works being carried out, and is likely to be completed towards end of 2009.
The highway interchanges, the canal bridge crossings are all bound to be complete within the scheduled completion date. The access roads and the boulevard are gaining incremental target dates. Now with the subcontractors being finalized, the contracts are on schedule and will be complete towards end of 2007.
The Al Raha Beach Development Director, Michael Cox said "Aldar is committed towards timely delivery of projects, and we are pleased with the progress of Al Muneera and Al Bandar, so far. Our experiences in the industry, coupled with the strong relationship that we maintain with quality supplies, allows the team to concentrate in meeting quality standards desired by our customers, while also staying on the schedule initially announced."
Labels: Abu Dhabi, Al Raha Beach, Aldar, Business Tower, Construction Projects
Al Qudra announces plans to launch a leisure-cum-healthcare community Ain Al Faydah
Located at the base of Al Ain, Ain Al Faydah is the perfect setting for wellness amenities such as anti-aging oasis, rehabilitation center, holistic healthcare, postgraduate medical and paramedical education facility, wellness center and a list of available healthcare services. Majority of the development constitutes the residential segment, which is expected to draw expatriates and UAE nationals, alike, who are in search of balanced lifestyle.The Al Qudra CEO and General Manager, Victor Orth, revealed that at present Al Qudra is working on various projects that meet the requirements of UAE residents. Ain Al Faydah is one such project, that combines tourism, healthcare, residential and retail sectors, all within a single community. The layout and amenities in the development form a one-stop destination for those desiring a healing and peaceful present-day community.
Labels: Al-Ain, Cityscape, Community, Real Estate Projects
Active Realty Projects in Gulf region crosses $1trillion mark
The scale of new developments in the GCC countries of Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE and Bahrain has been quite impressive. As per data from Proleads, the Dubai-based research company, there are about 885 active civil building projects in the region on the whole, with values of more than $10million each.
The total value of the real estate projects alone, covering more than $1trillion, includes commercial and residential sectors, educational establishments, cinemas, theatres, healthcare facilities, sports facilities, theme parks, hotels and mixed-use and retail developments. Among the active projects that have been included in the reports are those in which there has been some amount of study, planning, designing, construction or bidding. The report excludes buildings that are already complete and those that are in conceptual stage.
During the recent Cityscape 2007, the biggest business-to-business real estate show in Dubai, the Saudi Arabia and UAE accounted for lion's share of civil building developments. The UAE alone recorded a total of 390 projects, with a total value of more than $430billion. This was followed by Saudi Arabia with 330 projects worth $409 billion.
Among the top five active civil projects in the GCC worth more than $358billion are:
- The King Abdullah Economic City in Saudi Arabia worth $120 billion
- Kuwait's Silk City project worth $86 billion
- Dubai Investment's Dubailand worth $60 billion
- The Prince Abdulaziz Bin Mousaed Economic City in Saudi Arabia worth $53 billion
- Abu Dhabi's Yas Island development worth $39 billion
Labels: Cityscape, Latest News, Real Estate News, Real Estate Projects
The World - most exclusive piece of real estate

The islands are so arranged as to form a globe, and draws attention from celebrities, wealthy businessmen, and even royalty to purchase a major island representing a specific country. Only recently, the island of Greece has been sold for $15.5mn dollars to an anonymous bidder in Greece. Depending on the location and size, the islands are priced anywhere between $15mn and $50mn. However, it caters only to the super-rich. The placement of infrastructure is left to the choice of the buyers, and this has resulted in the islands being pursued for residential and tourism purposes.
The only form of transport to the island is by boat and sea plane, hindering access to authorized visitors or residents, and this unique selling point has led to more than 60% of the islands being sold already. Despite the expense, the opportunity to own an island is an idea that can be realized only in few parts of the world, and Dubai is one such place.
Labels: Luxury Homes, Nakheel, Real Estate Projects, The World, Villa Projects, Water front
Emaar, Bawadi join hands for Dh.60bn realty development
Tuesday, October 23, 2007

This realty project is expected to turn out to be a signature development with equal equity participation by both parties. While Bawadi is expected to transfer land rights to the joint venture, Emaar will contribute equivalent portion of cash in the joint venture. The venture is likely to yield its returns by 2009.
The joint venture will be managed by Emaar, through management and technical services agreement. This venture will bring about 15million square feet of family-oriented theme park, lush green parks and lakes with a wide range of attractions matching global standards. It will also include six hotels and 1200 serviced apartments. The project will be located at the heart of Bawadi, and in close proximity to Arabian Ranches, an Emaar flagship project.
The Emaar Properties, Chairman, Mohamed Ali Alabbar, said "As a pioneer of master-planned communities in Dubai, with an accomplished track record of creating world-class developments, Emaar has established credentials in property development. Our partnership with Bawadi will increase our land bank in Dubai by 76%. This transaction is ideal as per the Dubai Strategic Plan, which has been outlined by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed, highlighting the need for Dubai taking leadership position by leveraging its strengths."
The Executive Chairman of Dubai Holding, Mohamed Al Gergawi, mentioned that as per the Strategic Plan by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed, the focal areas of the plan is tourism development, and the abilities of the two companies together, will effectively contribute to this sector.
Labels: Bawadi, Dubailand, Emmar, Latest News, Real Estate Projects, Theme-Parks
RAK Properties, Millennium Group signs deal for managing Mina Al Arab Resort

Mina Al Arab real estate development, launched in May 2006, is a Dh.10billion waterfront community, covering 30 square feet of the development, with a variety of facilities, ranging from residential buildings, hotels, marinas, and theme parks, to restaurants, shopping arcades and cafes.
The Managing Director of RAK Properties, Mohammad Sultan Al Qadi says "Millennium is the most recognized hospitality brands in the world. Millennium Mina Al Arab will be an exciting and refreshing experience for its visitors, as it is a combination of top quality hospitality of Millennium, with Mina Al Arab's emphasis on heritage and nature."
Labels: Mina Al Arab, RAK Properties, Ras Al Khaima, Resorts, Water front
Sobha Group launches first luxury residential project Sobha Daffodil at Jumeirah Village
Sobha Daffodil consists of a four storey front block and ten storey rear block comprising 178 apartments. Sobha Daffodil offers a range of studios, single, double and triple bedroom apartments, all done up with high-quality finishes. Other recreational amenities here are the Barbeque area, the Club House, the Roof top, the Children's play area, the health club, gymnasium, Jacuzzi, a swimming pool, steam room, sauna and games room.The Vice Chairman of Sobha Real Estate LLC, Ajay Rajendran, expressing his happiness over the launch of the company's first residential project in Dubai, stated that the Sobha Daffodil at the Jumeirah Village is expected to be another landmark addition to the Sobha portfolio, rendering high-quality lifestyle at the heart of New Dubai.
Labels: Apartments, Jumeriah Village, New-Dubai, Residential


