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In The Spotlight

Internationally, the nuclear renaissance is gaining momentum. (Image source: Alain Charles Publishing)

Energy

The UAE has emerged as a global leader in nuclear energy deployment, showcasing a remarkable journey of strategic vision, technological innovation, and commitment to sustainable development.

This success was highlighted at a panel discussion during the World Utilities Congress, held in Abu Dhabi.

Mohammed Al Braiki, general manager, ENEC consulting vice president, ENEC Strategy, emphasised the country's transformative approach. 

"We were ambitious, bold, and committed," he stated, reflecting on the nation's nuclear journey that began in 2009. 

The Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant now supplies 25% of the UAE's electricity, avoiding 22.4 million tons of CO2 emissions, which is equivalent to taking four million cars off the road.

What sets the UAE's approach apart is its comprehensive strategy. The country has not just built nuclear infrastructure but created an entire ecosystem around it. "We invested a lot in outreach programs," Al Braiki explained, highlighting their commitment to public education and acceptance. Remarkably, the program maintains an 85% public acceptance rate, a testament to transparent communication and strategic implementation.

The global nuclear landscape is undergoing a significant transformation. Dr. Sama Bilbao y León, director general of the World Nuclear Association, noted the industry's newfound pragmatism. "It's simply not possible to reach Paris Agreement goals, energy security, and economic development without nuclear energy," she emphasised.

The timing couldn't be more critical. With the rising demands of artificial intelligence and data centers, nuclear energy is becoming increasingly attractive. Mohammed Al Braiki shared a striking projection: data center power consumption could grow from 2.5% of global power in 2025 to 8% by 2035, creating an unprecedented need for stable, clean energy sources.

The UAE's success extends beyond electricity generation. The nuclear program has created a robust industrial ecosystem, with $4.9 billion localised in supply chains. Companies are now exporting expertise and components to nuclear projects in the UK, Korea, and beyond.

Internationally, the nuclear renaissance is gaining momentum. Thirty-one nations have pledged to triple nuclear capacity, with 14 major banks committing to support this expansion. 

Dr. Bilbao y León captured the essence of this transformation. "We are not just building power plants; we are creating an entire ecosystem of clean energy professionals," she said.

Other perspectives

Karim Amin, board member, Siemens Energy, said, "Nuclear energy is not a stop and go technology. We need to show it's not just a technology, but an important pillar for climate resilience, energy sovereignty, and economic development. If we communicate properly, we will find traction with the younger generation."

Neil Wilmshurst is SVP, Chief Nuclear Strategy Officer and MD of EPRI Gulf, along with being chair - U.S. Member Committee, World Energy Council. 

"We need to change how we communicate about nuclear energy - stop apologising and start leading with its benefits. The dream is to have common codes and standards across the world, which would rationalise components and make supply chain management more efficient," he said. 

Loyiso Tyabashe, group CEO South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa), said, "The nuclear industry has been very good at talking to itself, and it's time to broaden the conversation. Advocacy is crucial, where we show the pros and cons of the technology, just like any other technology. We need to engage academia, industries, and influential community members to change perceptions."




The agreement was formalised at the World Utilities Congress in Abu Dhabi. (Image source: ENEC)

Energy

The Emirates Nuclear Energy Company (ENEC) has signed an MoU with GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GVH) to jointly evaluate the international deployment of the BWRX-300 small modular reactor (SMR) technology.

The agreement was formalised during a private ceremony at the World Utilities Congress in Abu Dhabi, where ENEC’s managing director and CEO, HE Mohamed Al Hammadi, and Maví Zingoni, CEO of GE Vernova’s Power segment, exchanged signed MoUs.

“As we continue to power the UAE with clean, baseload electricity around the clock, we are glad to move to the next level of cooperation with GE Vernova Hitachi to accelerate the deployment of new advanced nuclear reactor technologies in the UAE and internationally,” said Al Hammadi.

“This MoU will bring together our complementary expertise to identify a clear roadmap for deployment, which is essential to ensure safe, efficient and quality-led nuclear delivery, as we have experienced here in the UAE. As global power demand continues to grow at pace, we look forward to advancing new solutions to meet this growth in a sustainable manner.”

New collaborations

The two companies will collaborate on a development roadmap that includes identifying sites, navigating licensing pathways, outlining investment and commercialisation strategies, and expanding supply chain capabilities.

“Small modular reactors have an essential role to play in an energy secure future and we are pleased to advance our collaboration with ENEC as the UAE seeks to be an early mover for nuclear innovation,” said Zingoni.

“With projects moving forward in Canada and in the United States, collaborating with ENEC further strengthens our ties with the UAE and ability to deliver this technology and achieve a more sustainable energy future.”

ENEC, which successfully developed and operates the four-unit Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant in Abu Dhabi, powers 25% of the UAE with nuclear energy.

The company has been recognised for aligning with international safety and operational standards through its membership in the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) Atlanta Centre.

Each Barakah unit was brought online in an average of just 7.9 years.

The ENEC-GVH teams will now work together to create a detailed roadmap for potential deployment of the BWRX-300, with the ADVANCE programme providing the framework for evaluating next-generation nuclear solutions on a global scale.

 

 

More than 84,000 sqm of roads in Arafat use locally recycled materials. (Image source: Roads General Authority)

Construction

Saleh Al-Jasser, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of the Roads General Authority, has launched the cooled pedestrian walkway project in Mecca, designed to improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The Roads General Authority reports that the cooled roads initiative has expanded by 82% since its 2023 launch.

More than 84,000 sqm of roads in Arafat have now been paved using locally recycled materials that reduce heat absorption.

These materials lower surface temperatures by approximately 12°C and reflect 30–40% more sunlight during morning hours, helping to mitigate urban heat islands, reduce energy use and air pollution, and create a more comfortable experience for pilgrims.

The use of flexible rubber roads has also increased by 33%, with the latest stretch extending from Namira Mosque to Arafat Train Station, bringing the total flexible pavement area to 16,000 sqm.

Green materials

Designed to soften pedestrian areas, these rubberised surfaces provide enhanced comfort especially for older adults, according to studies by the Road Research Centre.

The initiative includes a green corridor project along the adaptable path, where trees have been planted across 1,200 m from Namira Mosque to the train station.

Air-cooling mist systems and water fountains, installed in collaboration with the Abdulrahman Fakieh Charitable Foundation, further improve air quality and comfort for pilgrims.

A key component of the project is a new accessibility initiative supporting individuals with disabilities.

A 4,000 m pedestrian path to Mount Arafat has been constructed using cooled paving materials engineered to reduce vibration and improve mobility for users and their companions.

These efforts are part of the Roads General Authority’s wider mission to raise the quality of Saudi Arabia’s roads to sixth globally by 2030 and reduce road fatalities to fewer than five per 100,000 people.

The Kingdom currently leads the world in intercity road connectivity, with a national network spanning more than 73,000 km.



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Energy

Internationally, the nuclear renaissance is gaining momentum. (Image source: Alain Charles Publishing)

Energy

The UAE has emerged as a global leader in nuclear energy deployment, showcasing a remarkable journey of strategic vision, technological innovation, and commitment to sustainable development.

This success was highlighted at a panel discussion during the World Utilities Congress, held in Abu Dhabi.

Mohammed Al Braiki, general manager, ENEC consulting vice president, ENEC Strategy, emphasised the country's transformative approach. 

"We were ambitious, bold, and committed," he stated, reflecting on the nation's nuclear journey that began in 2009. 

The Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant now supplies 25% of the UAE's electricity, avoiding 22.4 million tons of CO2 emissions, which is equivalent to taking four million cars off the road.

What sets the UAE's approach apart is its comprehensive strategy. The country has not just built nuclear infrastructure but created an entire ecosystem around it. "We invested a lot in outreach programs," Al Braiki explained, highlighting their commitment to public education and acceptance. Remarkably, the program maintains an 85% public acceptance rate, a testament to transparent communication and strategic implementation.

The global nuclear landscape is undergoing a significant transformation. Dr. Sama Bilbao y León, director general of the World Nuclear Association, noted the industry's newfound pragmatism. "It's simply not possible to reach Paris Agreement goals, energy security, and economic development without nuclear energy," she emphasised.

The timing couldn't be more critical. With the rising demands of artificial intelligence and data centers, nuclear energy is becoming increasingly attractive. Mohammed Al Braiki shared a striking projection: data center power consumption could grow from 2.5% of global power in 2025 to 8% by 2035, creating an unprecedented need for stable, clean energy sources.

The UAE's success extends beyond electricity generation. The nuclear program has created a robust industrial ecosystem, with $4.9 billion localised in supply chains. Companies are now exporting expertise and components to nuclear projects in the UK, Korea, and beyond.

Internationally, the nuclear renaissance is gaining momentum. Thirty-one nations have pledged to triple nuclear capacity, with 14 major banks committing to support this expansion. 

Dr. Bilbao y León captured the essence of this transformation. "We are not just building power plants; we are creating an entire ecosystem of clean energy professionals," she said.

Other perspectives

Karim Amin, board member, Siemens Energy, said, "Nuclear energy is not a stop and go technology. We need to show it's not just a technology, but an important pillar for climate resilience, energy sovereignty, and economic development. If we communicate properly, we will find traction with the younger generation."

Neil Wilmshurst is SVP, Chief Nuclear Strategy Officer and MD of EPRI Gulf, along with being chair - U.S. Member Committee, World Energy Council. 

"We need to change how we communicate about nuclear energy - stop apologising and start leading with its benefits. The dream is to have common codes and standards across the world, which would rationalise components and make supply chain management more efficient," he said. 

Loyiso Tyabashe, group CEO South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa), said, "The nuclear industry has been very good at talking to itself, and it's time to broaden the conversation. Advocacy is crucial, where we show the pros and cons of the technology, just like any other technology. We need to engage academia, industries, and influential community members to change perceptions."




The agreement was formalised at the World Utilities Congress in Abu Dhabi. (Image source: ENEC)

The fully automated system handles everything. (Image source: NIO)

Water

Sri Lanka's water management challenges have drawn international attention. (Image source: Alain Charles Publishing)

Water

In an era of increasing water scarcity and climate uncertainty, the UAE has emerged as a critical partner for island nations struggling with water security challenges. 

A recent panel during the World Utilities Congress in Abu Dhabi highlighted the UAE's role in supporting Cyprus and Sri Lanka through technological assistance.

Cyprus, facing its most severe drought in three decades, received immediate and tangible support from the UAE. 

Maria Panayiotou, Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, emphasised this, stating, "Two days ago, Cyprus received desalination units of 15,000 cubic meters production of water per day. We have asked for help from the UAE, and the UAE responded positively. [It] responded immediately."

This gesture is more than a simple aid package; it represents a sophisticated approach to transboundary water cooperation. 

Panayiotou described it as "a tremendous help for Cyprus" that faces prolonged drought and severe water scarcity. 

The desalination units are part of Cyprus's broader strategy to achieve 100% water coverage by the end of the year, with a focus on using renewable energy and solar systems to reduce production costs.

Global South countries collaborate with each other

Similarly, Sri Lanka's water management challenges have drawn international attention. 

While the country boasts over 100 rivers and significant rainfall, political and infrastructural issues have complicated water distribution. 

The UAE's collaborative approach extends beyond immediate relief, supporting comprehensive water management strategies.

Both Cyprus and Sri Lanka view the UAE's support through a lens of regional cooperation and geopolitical partnership. 

As Panayiotou put it, "We act locally, but you have to think globally and cooperate regionally. This is important. We cannot do it by ourselves."

The support goes beyond mere technological transfer. It represents a model of diplomatic engagement where resource-rich nations assist countries facing environmental challenges. 

Anil Jayantha from Sri Lanka emphasised the importance of collaborative approaches, noting that solutions require working "together with all other ministries and international agencies."

As climate change continues to challenge traditional water management approaches, the UAE's support for Cyprus and Sri Lanka offers a blueprint for international cooperation.

It underscores the potential of strategic partnerships in addressing one of the most critical challenges of the 21st century: ensuring water security for vulnerable nations.

The programme focuses on expanding Morocco’s natural gas-based power generation capacity. (Image source: TAQA Morocco)

30% of respondents invested over US$500mn in the water sector in 2024

Construction

Construction

Beneath the lively streets of Cairo, a technically ambitious infrastructure project is taking shape with the construction of the new Giza Station on Metro Line 4 – set to be one of the deepest metro stations in North Africa, reaching depths of up to 81 m.

Orascom Construction PLC has tasked BAUER EGYPT S.A.E., a subsidiary of BAUER Spezialtiefbau GmbH, with carrying out specialist foundation engineering works. Construction began in November 2024 and is scheduled for completion by December 2025.

Two special foundation techniques are in use: approx. 49,000 m² of diaphragm walls and 7,400 m² of barrettes, some reaching 81 m in depth.

A BAUER MC 96 duty-cycle crane is being deployed in double shifts, six days a week.

As of May 2025, 84 out of 209 diaphragm wall panels have been completed. The full station will span around 5,543 m².

“At this size and depth, there’s zero tolerance for deviation – every centimetre counts,” said Karim Galal, project manager at Bauer Egypt.

“The BAUER Construction Process provides us with a clear structure and guidance. It ensures that everyone involved in the project works to the same standards and helps us achieve our goals on time.”

Tight space and coordination constraints mark this project. Parts of the site are still in use until November 2025 to backfill an existing tunnel, allowing for further excavation.

“We’re working under highly unusual conditions with extremely tight space and immense time pressure,” Galal said. Notably, the tunnel boring machines are operating one above the other, a first in Egypt.

“The logistics, the depth, and the constant coordination with other trades present daily challenges, but that’s exactly what makes this project so special,” added Galal. The foundation engineering phase is expected to wrap up by year-end, paving the way for a significant upgrade to Cairo’s urban mobility.

Egypt stands to benefit most from investing in energy-efficient construction. (Image source: Exergio)

More than 84,000 sqm of roads in Arafat use locally recycled materials. (Image source: Roads General Authority)

Mining

Haul Track’s robust data lets managers set fuel efficiency targets. (Image source: Rokbak)

Mining

In the high-pressure world of mining, quarrying, and construction, fuel efficiency is a make-or-break factor for both profitability and environmental impact.

Garry Moore, a veteran customer support manager at Rokbak, a Scottish manufacturer of articulated dump trucks (ADTs), has spent nearly 20 years refining strategies to optimise heavy equipment performance.

Here, Moore unveils seven expert tips for harnessing Rokbak’s Haul Track telematics system to slash fuel expenses, curb carbon emissions, and boost site productivity.

Here are seven ways to achieve it

1. Keep engines in top shape for fuel savings

A neglected engine burns more fuel and pumps out excess emissions. Haul Track’s real-time diagnostics alert managers to issues like blocked filters or suboptimal fuel systems, enabling quick fixes. By acting on these email notifications, operators ensure ADTs run lean, saving fuel and reducing environmental harm.

2. Spot and fix delays with idling insights

Trucks idling in queues waste fuel and stall progress. Using Haul Track’s GPS and idle-time tracking, managers can identify bottlenecks where ADTs wait for loaders. Moore suggests rebalancing fleet setups—adjusting loader or hauler sizes—to keep operations moving, cutting fuel use and CO2 output while ramping up efficiency.

3. Maximise loads with precision weighing

Half-empty trucks force extra trips, inflating fuel costs and equipment wear. Rokbak’s On-Board Weigh, synced with Haul Track, provides live load data, empowering operators to fill trucks to capacity every time. This approach boosts output, conserves fuel, and keeps production targets on track.

4. Redesign sites for shorter, smarter routes

Inefficient haul roads and traffic snarls sap fuel economy. Haul Track’s movement tracking, combined with fuel and idle reports, works across all equipment brands to highlight trouble spots. By streamlining routes and easing congestion, managers can trim fuel bills, lower emissions, and extend machine life.

5. Coach operators for smoother driving

Aggressive driving habits, like rapid acceleration or sudden stops, can inflate fuel consumption. Haul Track’s fuel usage comparisons reveal when specific trucks burn more than peers on similar tasks. Moore advocates using these insights for constructive training, helping drivers adopt smoother techniques to save fuel.

6. Protect tyres, save fuel

Underinflated tyres increase drag, forcing engines to work harder and wear out faster. Haul Track’s real-time tyre pressure monitoring catches issues early, allowing quick corrections. Proper inflation optimises fuel use, prolongs tyre durability, and enhances site safety.

7. Drive progress with clear performance goals

Haul Track’s robust data lets managers set fuel efficiency targets and monitor results over time. By analyzing trends and sharing feedback, teams stay motivated to improve. This data-driven approach fosters smarter decisions and a culture of continuous progress.

Moore’s strategies show that Haul Track is more than a data tool. It is a  game-changer for cost-conscious, eco-aware operations. With these seven tactics, site leaders and operators can transform insights into action, driving down costs and emissions while keeping their sites running at peak performance.

Fake parts could undermine OEM equipment. (Image source: Metso)

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Manufacturing

Manufacturing

Emirates Global Aluminium, the world's largest 'premium aluminium' producer, stated that it has signed a deal with Ghana Integrated Aluminium Development Corporation (GIADEC) to investigate bauxite-related project options in Ghana.

Ghana has over 900 million tonnes of bauxite reserves in one main and two smaller recognised deposits. Ghana now produces approximately 1.5 million tonnes of bauxite per year, with grade resources enabling for further development. Bauxite is the mineral from which aluminium is produced.

Under the deal, EGA and GIADEC will investigate the possibility of long-term bauxite offtake agreements as well as collaboration on rail and port infrastructure to increase production.

Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, said, “This aligns well with EGA’s goal of diversifying our sources of upstream supply as we grow our metal production, including in the US as we progress our plans to develop a greenfield primary aluminium production plant as announced during the recent state visit to the UAE of President Trump. EGA is looking to double its bauxite production in the next few years and exploring multiple opportunities worldwide, and Ghana is amongst them.”

The industrial firm has recorded no cases of heat-related illnesses since 2021. (Image source: EGA)

In 2024, the UAE exported 350,000 tonnes of aluminium to the United States

Logistics

DP World unveils integrated logistics solution to help OEMs expand efficiently in sub-Saharan Africa’s auto market. (Image source: DP World)

Logistics

DP World has introduced a comprehensive logistics and market-entry solution designed to overcome the longstanding challenges faced by automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) aiming to expand in sub-Saharan Africa

Sub-Saharan Africa is set to become one of the fastest-growing automotive markets globally, with vehicle demand forecasted to rise by 28.5% by 2030. This growth is fueled by increasing incomes, urbanisation, and booming intra-African trade. However, despite the region representing about 18% of the world’s population, it accounts for only around 1% of global vehicle sales. Global OEMs have struggled to grow in the region due to unreliable logistics infrastructure, complex regulations, and inconsistent parts distribution.

DP World’s new turnkey offering marks its first automotive hybrid model in sub-Saharan Africa, combining contract logistics with customised market-entry and expansion services through a single integrated platform. This service provides nationwide delivery to most dealerships within 24 to 48 hours, a digital dealer portal featuring SKU-level inventory visibility, real-time tracking, automated ordering, and integrated payments.

Market entry success 

The solution was successfully tested with Foton Motor, a prominent Chinese commercial vehicle manufacturer. By utilising DP World’s end-to-end support platform, Foton swiftly launched aftermarket operations for heavy commercial vehicles in South Africa, encompassing warehousing, nationwide distribution, regulatory compliance, and digital dealer enablement. This fast market entry gave Foton South Africa a competitive edge with an integrated service network, helping to build early customer trust and engagement.

Fu Jun, president of Foton International at Foton Motor Group, added, “Growing our presence in South Africa is a priority for Foton, and our work with DP World has played an important role in making that possible. Their support with unlocking market and contract logistics services has helped make our aftermarket operations efficient and straightforward, allowing us to concentrate on serving our customers and building our business.”

The hybrid model also enables OEMs to gain a first-mover advantage in a market where aftermarket parts are often dominated by informal suppliers and grey imports. By providing a dependable service network, OEMs like Foton can establish trust, secure long-term customer loyalty, and reduce counterfeit parts risks, all while benefiting from a single point of contact and accountability within the region.

“The automotive industry’s outlook for Africa is changing fast. The question is no longer whether to enter the market, but how to do it effectively. With extensive infrastructure across the region, and deep expertise in complex logistics and market solutions, DP World is ideally placed to support international automakers looking to enter or expand into one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets,” stated Mark Rylance, chief operating officer for Logistics at DP World Sub-Saharan Africa.

DP World plans to develop further innovative solutions to assist more OEMs entering sub-Saharan African markets in the coming years as it scales its services to meet the rising demand for commercial and passenger vehicles across the region.

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Latest news

The industrial firm has recorded no cases of heat-related illnesses since 2021. (Image source: EGA)

DP World unveils integrated logistics solution to help OEMs expand efficiently in sub-Saharan Africa’s auto market. (Image source: DP World)

Egypt stands to benefit most from investing in energy-efficient construction. (Image source: Exergio)

In 2024, the UAE exported 350,000 tonnes of aluminium to the United States

Internationally, the nuclear renaissance is gaining momentum. (Image source: Alain Charles Publishing)

The agreement was formalised at the World Utilities Congress in Abu Dhabi. (Image source: ENEC)

More than 84,000 sqm of roads in Arafat use locally recycled materials. (Image source: Roads General Authority)

Port of Fujairah has evolved into a vital maritime and shipping services centre for the UAE. (Image source: Port of Fujairah)

The fully automated system handles everything. (Image source: NIO)

More than 130 international speakers will participate. (Image source: WUC 2025)

The agreement tackles long-standing land-related issues

Bin Ghalita was welcomed by Faris Saeed, CEO of Tadweer. (Image source: Tadweer)

The MoU was signed in Dubai. (Image source: EmiratesGBC)

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