Construction & Real Estate

Mabanee's Kuwaiti smart urban project Aventura on track

Construction work on Kuwait’s Aventura (J3) smart urban development project is progressing at a rapid pace, with its residential component 82% complete and a year ahead of schedule, according to its developers.
 
The ambitious project, located in the 12.5-sq-km Jaber Al-Ahmad City on the periphery of the greater capital area of Kuwait City, is aimed at expanding the country’s residential, commercial and leisure offerings. 
 
It is being developed by leading real estate developer and partner Mabanee Company under a public-private partnership (PPP) with the Public Authority for Housing Welfare (PAHW).
 
Mabanee was selected as “preferred investor” to develop the project, alongside Kuwait-based regional architecture and engineering firm Pace.
 
At the core of this development is a trio of interconnected elements: Aventura Mall, a dynamic retail and entertainment hub; Aventura Residences, thoughtfully designed and fully-furnished apartments catering to modern lifestyles; and Townhouses, which introduces upscale, villa-inspired residences, an unprecedented addition to PAHW’s portfolio.
 
In an exclusive interview with Gulf Construction, Pace’s CEO Architect Tarek Shuaib says: “Strategically positioned with its innovative design and impressive ahead-of-schedule construction, Aventura joins the major projects redefining Kuwait’s urban identity and setting a new benchmark for modern, integrated living.
 
“Pace has designed Aventura with a keen focus on efficiency, sustainability and community integration. Its harmonious mix of residential, commercial, and leisure spaces is redefining city life, setting new standards for what a modern community should be.”
 
Designed to be a contemporary icon and landmark for Jaber Al-Ahmed City, Aventura Mall is in its final fit-out stage, and will soon unveil 88,400 sq m of prime shopping experiences, 15,600 sq m of diverse dining options, a supermarket and 14 cutting-edge cinemas.
 
The mall features a striking architectural design, expansive atriums and an open-air plaza to encourage social interaction. With a striking contemporary façade that wraps and folds itself around the mall, and unfolds to create dynamic outdoor spaces, the mall serves as a social and cultural landmark, says Pace.
 
Designed with open plazas, atriums, skylights and inviting green spaces, Aventura fosters a sense of connection and community.  The mall’s plaza also seamlessly opens up towards the development’s residential area to connect directly with the residents and also acts as an extension of the neighbourhood park, maintaining the sense of community across all of Aventura.
 
A collection of 21 residential high-rise buildings, Aventura Residences is nearing completion. The complex shares a unified architectural identity and character while maintaining distinct identities in form, façade and position within the plot to distinguish each type of building. 
 
The fully-furnished apartments were crafted for modern urban dwellers, with just two apartments per floor and smart layouts that maximise space, privacy, natural light, open views and ventilation.
 
The 72 townhouses on offer – which are now 60 per cent complete – reimagine community living with an emphasis on spacious, villa-style comfort. They offer elegantly designed three-storey homes with private terraces, green courtyards, and a seamless blend of comfort and exclusivity. 
 
The townhouses, arranged in clusters of 18 per plot, enhance the sense of neighbourhood living while maximising green spaces and public amenities, according to Pace.
 
On the overall development, Shuabi said: "Every aspect of this project – from the residential towers to the mall and public spaces – has been carefully designed to foster a sense of belonging, sustainability, and architectural excellence."
 
"The collaboration between the public and private sectors has accelerated the project’s progress while maintaining the highest standards of design and environmental responsibility. Aventura is a testament to how cities can evolve when strategic vision and cutting-edge architecture come together," he noted.
 
Shuaib also stated that Aventura was on track to achieve LEED Gold certification, highlighting Pace’s commitment to sustainable construction at every stage of development. 
 
“We have incorporated advanced energy-efficient systems, water conservation technologies and environment-friendly materials. Thoughtfully designed green spaces, optimised natural lighting and state-of-the-art ventilation further contribute to an eco-conscious environment. This milestone aligns with Kuwait’s broader vision for smart urban development and responsible city planning,” he adds.
 
Kuwait’s construction sector is expanding, driven by new residential and city developments, Shuaib states. With project awards increasing in 2024, the country is advancing its urban landscape to meet growing housing and commercial demands.
 
“The country is undergoing a transformative era of investment and growth, and Aventura is a key player in this evolution, demonstrating how innovative architecture and strategic urban planning can redefine the way people live, work and interact.
 
“By integrating sustainable residential leasing models with a thriving commercial hub, the project fosters long-term economic resilience and a dynamic urban environment,” Shuaib concludes.-TradeArabia News Service

Construction & Real Estate

Dewa's new HQ building on track for Q4 completion

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) has announced that work is moving at a steady pace on its new headquarters building - Al Shera’a - located in Al Jaddaf.
 
Al Shera’a, which boasts a built-up area of over 2 million sq ft, is being set up at a total investment of AED1.5 billion ($408 million). 
 
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO dubbed the new Dewa HQ as a sustainable architectural masterpiece. "Once operational it will be the tallest, largest and smartest energy-positive government building in the world," stated Al Tayer.
 
"The construction, engineering and procurement works are scheduled for completion in the fourth quarter of 2025," he added.-TradeArabia News Service

Construction & Real Estate

Majid Al Futtaim to launch 30 new lifestyle stores in 2025

Majid Al Futtaim, a leading shopping malls, communities, retail, and leisure pioneer in the region, has announced an ambitious expansion of its luxury retail portfolio for 2025. 
 
Following a record-breaking 2024, which saw a 26% growth in its lifestyle business, the expansion will be anchored by renowned Italian brands Eleventy, Corneliani, and Poltrona Frau, with a series of store openings planned across key locations in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
 
As part of its strategic growth agenda, Majid Al Futtaim will launch over 30 new stores, spanning both luxury and High Street brands across the region. 
 
The expansion will include five standalone Eleventy stores, the regional debut of Corneliani, and the first Poltrona Frau store outside the UAE in Saudi Arabia, said a statement from Majid Al Futtaim.
 
The five standalone Eleventy stores are set to open in key locations in 2025, including, Solitaire Mall in Saudi Arabia, Mall of the Emirates, Marsa Al Arab, which all opened this month, with Dubai Mall and The Grove in the UAE to follow later in the year, it stated. 
 
Known for its commitment to sustainable practices, Eleventy reflects the growing consumer demand for quality and subtle sophistication, all under the ‘Made in Italy’ banner.
 
This growth builds on Eleventy’s successful presence in the region, which includes a shop-in-shop at THAT Concept Store, a pop-up at Mall of the Emirates, and its first standalone location in Marina Mall Abu Dhabi opened with Majid Al Futtaim in November 2024, it added.
 
"In a region where customers have an abundance of choice, our ambition is to curate a portfolio of luxury brands that offer something truly distinctive," remarked Fahed Ghanim, the CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Lifestyle. 
 
"By introducing brands like Eleventy, Corneliani, and Poltrona Frau, we are bringing new dimensions to the luxury market - combining timeless craftsmanship with modern sensibilities that resonate with the refined tastes of our customers," stated Ghanim. 
 
Majid Al Futtaim, he stated, was further strengthening its partnership with Poltrona Frau, the iconic Italian luxury furniture brand, by introducing its first store in the region outside the UAE at Centria Mall, Riyadh, in May. 
 
Poltrona Frau, a key brand within Majid Al Futtaim’s portfolio,  achieved remarkable success in 2024, with its revenue increasing fivefold following the launch of its second UAE store at Mall of the Emirates.
 
Italian luxury menswear brand Corneliani also made its regional store debut in April at Solitaire Mall, Saudi Arabia. 
 
Founded in 1930, Corneliani is one of Italy’s oldest independent luxury brands, renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and presence in over 70 countries. 
 
With the launch of its first standalone store in the Middle East, Majid Al Futtaim brings Corneliani’s timeless suits and sophisticated casualwear to even more customers across the region, said Ghanim.
 
Marco Baldassari, Co-Founder and Menswear Creative Director at Eleventy said: "Eleventy's philosophy of understated elegance and commitment to sustainability resonates strongly with the sophisticated Middle Eastern consumer."
 
"We are excited to strengthen our partnership with Majid Al Futtaim, whose visionary approach to luxury retail is shaping a new vision with a growing focus on customer needs. Together, we aim to redefine luxury retail by offering timeless craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and innovative experiences," he added.
 
Nicola Coropulis, CEO of Poltrona Frau, said: "Since partnering with Majid Al Futtaim more than two years ago, we have focused on strategic growth and elevating the customer experience across the region."
 
"The revitalisation of our flagship store in Jumeirah and our successful debut at Mall of the Emirates have been key milestones in our journey," noted Coropulis. 
 
"We are now excited to bring this momentum to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with our first store in Riyadh, further solidifying our presence in the GCC and expanding our reach in this dynamic market," he added.-TradeArabia News Service