In The Spotlight
A senior delegation from TAQA Water Solutions has completed a technical tour of Denmark organised by the Water Efficiency Middle East Alliance (WEMA) and supported by the Danish Trade Council, aiming to advance knowledge sharing around sustainable water infrastructure.
Held at a time of heightened focus on water security across the GCC, the visit connected Emirati and Danish water sector leaders to exchange proven strategies for wastewater reuse, energy optimisation, and circular economy practices. The tour aligned with key regional frameworks, including the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036, Net Zero 2050, and Saudi Vision 2030.
With Denmark widely recognised as a pioneer in sustainable utilities, TAQA representatives were given access to in-depth case studies and operational insights that hold strong relevance for Middle Eastern utilities working to meet rising demand with lower environmental impact.
Throughout the visit, TAQA executives engaged directly with Danish utilities, technology companies, and research institutions. Roundtable discussions and site visits were hosted by WEMA member companies such as Grundfos, Danfoss, DHI, NIRAS, Aquaterra, AVK, Watopi, and Aarhus Vand.
Focus areas included sludge and odour management, advanced wastewater reuse, energy-efficient pumping systems, stormwater resilience, and smart digital platforms to improve asset performance.
A highlight of the programme was a dedicated knowledge session with BIOFOS, Denmark’s largest wastewater utility, and Aarhus Water Utility, which is at the forefront of customer-centric water services and climate-adaptive infrastructure.
Groundwork for collaboration
The visit identified clear pathways for deeper technical cooperation, including feasibility assessments for Danish technologies in the GCC and potential pilot projects that demonstrate real-world impact.
TAQA Water Solutions outlined key priorities such as enhancing operational energy efficiency, solving infiltration challenges, and managing complex large-scale pumping requirements, areas where Danish innovation can play a significant role.
As WEMA continues to bridge connections between the Gulf and global water leaders, the mission underlined how structured knowledge exchange can unlock scalable solutions for more resilient, efficient, and future-ready water networks in the region.
“This delegation was more than a visit, it was a strategic exchange of ideas, technology, and shared ambition,” said Astrid SC Nielsen, the Danish Trade Council, Dubai. “TAQA Water Solutions’ commitment to innovation, coupled with Denmark’s decades of water expertise, are the seeds for impactful, long-term collaboration.”
“At TAQA Water Solutions, we have experienced firsthand how innovation profoundly drives comprehensive sustainability. It extends far beyond merely securing vital water and energy systems; it is the fundamental cornerstone reinforcing a resilient circular economy. This strategic imperative ensures that every precious drop is meticulously collected, expertly treated, and purposefully reused, thereby setting new benchmarks for responsible resource management and ensuring a water-secure future,” said Eng. Ahmed Al Shamsi, CEO of TAQA Water Solutions.
He added, “As part of TAQA Group's commitment to providing energy and water to communities worldwide, TAQA Water Solutions drives sustainable development and secures global water resources through strategic investments and collaborative partnerships in markets of growth. This visit exemplifies this mission, evolving beyond a technical exchange, profoundly deepening our shared commitment to advancing sustainable water solutions globally. We are grateful for the generous knowledge-sharing and the invaluable opportunity to learn from a community that has seamlessly integrated sustainability into its daily life, underscoring our belief that innovation truly thrives through reciprocal collaboration.”
Also read: How does the UAE support island nations' water security?
Saudi Arabia’s Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) has awarded a major contract worth up to US$900mn to the ArRiyadh New Mobility Consortium for the construction of the Line 2 extension of the Riyadh Metro project, according to a report by MEED.
The consortium includes several international heavyweights such as Italy’s Webuild, India’s Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Saudi-based Nesma & Partners, Japan’s Hitachi, Italy’s Ansaldo STS, Canada’s Bombardier, Spain’s Idom, and Australia’s WorleyParsons.
The Line 2 extension will span 8.4 km. This includes a 1.3 km elevated and a 7.1 km underground extension.
It will also feature five stations, two elevated and three underground. The line will run from the current King Saud University (KSU) terminus to KSU Medical City, KSU West, Diriyah East, Diriyah Central (interchanging with the planned Line 7), and ending at Diriyah South.
Last year, the BACS Consortium had delivered the first phase of the Riyadh Metro. This consortium also included global engineering, construction, and project management company Bechtel.
Project awards
Project management and construction supervision will be handled by Riyadh Metro Transit Consultants (RMTC), a joint venture of US-based Parsons and French engineering firms Egis and Systra. RMTC also provided project oversight for Lines 1, 2, and 3 during the first phase of the metro’s development.
Once complete, the Riyadh Metro will become the world’s longest driverless metro system, spanning 176 km with 85 stations and seven depots. The six-line network includes the Blue, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, and Purple lines.
The phased rollout of the network has progressed steadily. The Orange Line began operations in January this year, following the Red and Green lines which launched in December 2024. The Red Line (Line 2) runs 25.1 km from east to west along King Abdullah Road, connecting King Fahd Sports City with King Saud University and includes 15 stations.
The Green Line (Line 5) stretches 13.3 km, connecting King Abdullah Road with the National Museum, and serves key ministries such as Defence, Finance, and Commerce. In the same month, operations also began on the Blue (Line 1), Yellow (Line 4), and Purple (Line 6) lines.
Also read: Giza Station foundation work underway
Zebra Technologies Corporation, a global firm in digitising and automating frontline workflows, has revealed that while 82% of warehouse decision-makers in Europe believe increased use of technology and automation boosts frontline productivity, nearly 57% still struggle with knowing where to begin automating their operations.
Zebra’s research findings are based on a global study conducted by Azure Knowledge Corporation. The online survey included over 1,700 warehouse associates and decision-makers across manufacturing, retail, transportation, logistics, and wholesale distribution sectors.
These insights are drawn from Zebra’s latest 2025 Warehouse Vision Study , titled “The Great Warehouse Convergence: Where Technology, Efficiency and Innovation Align.”
In response to the evolving needs of warehousing and logistics professionals, Zebra has introduced the EM45 Series Enterprise Mobile Computer . Equipped with an AI-capable Qualcomm processor, the device is designed to enhance productivity for frontline managers across industries.
For postal, transportation and logistics providers, the EM45 streamlines route management and offers proof of delivery capabilities through a high-performance 50MP rear camera. The camera is optimised for capturing detailed images, recording video, and rapid barcode scanning.
Despite its sleek design, the EM45 remains rugged enough for tough environments and delivers improved workflow efficiency and device security. It supports dual personal and work profiles, allowing users to carry a single device. Other features include one-touch push-to-talk communication, three programmable action buttons for barcode scanning or emergency alerts, and integrated RFID for accurate inventory management. The Zebra DNA software suite also simplifies deployment and lifecycle support.
Machine vision and human-centric innovation
Machine vision is gaining traction as warehouse operators seek intelligent automation. According to Zebra’s study, 74% of European warehouse decision-makers believe machine vision and fixed industrial scanning (FIS) technologies could help save time and eliminate errors. In fact, 65% plan to implement machine vision solutions within the next one to five years.
This technology allows for smarter data capture by using cameras to inspect packages for quality and completeness, reducing manual tasks and improving efficiency. Zebra’s FIS devices can be upgraded via software subscriptions to handle more advanced machine vision functions, adapting to the evolving needs of modern warehouses.
These innovations are also supporting more effective reverse logistics, an area of growing importance. Around 69% of warehouse leaders are prioritising automated returns processing to cut down on inefficiencies.
“Warehouse, distribution and logistics operators can meet evolving customer expectations by adopting advanced technologies that drive efficiency and competitiveness,” said Phil Sambrook, transport and logistics vertical lead, EMEA, Zebra Technologies. “Intelligent automation and improved asset visibility will improve order accuracy, accelerate fulfilment and enhance returns management.”
“Human-centred solutions are set to reshape warehouses - nearly 80% of warehouse decision-makers in Europe agree that innovation makes warehouse jobs more appealing, attracting workers and supporting long-term workforce stability,” said Sambrook. “Warehouse leaders can get a strong start in their journey to automation by turning to technology partners experienced in helping transform operations.”
Also read: Hellmann introduces automated storage robots

Protium designs, develops, finances, owns, and operates green hydrogen systems. (Image source: AVEVA)
AVEVA, a global industrial software leader, has been chosen by Protium – the UK’s largest green hydrogen developer – to power its digital industrial intelligence platform aimed at accelerating the development of low-carbon energy solutions.
Through its use of AVEVA technology, Protium has already reduced time spent on process simulation by 30%, boosted reliability by 15%, and identified ways to cut maintenance costs by a further 15%. The company aims to cut 256,000 tonnes of CO2 annually, with AVEVA’s software expected to deliver an additional 5–10% savings through optimised process design and utility use.
Protium designs, develops, finances, owns, and operates green hydrogen systems across multiple sectors, helping clients reach net zero goals. The AVEVA-powered platform will use a digital twin to capture, contextualise, and analyse asset performance and operational data. This will allow Protium to identify faults, enhance visibility across operations, and make real-time decisions that improve reliability, minimise downtime, and verify certified electricity origin.
“Our collaboration with Protium brilliantly illustrates AVEVA’s commitment to enabling industrial sustainability,” said Caspar Herzberg, CEO, AVEVA. “Leading the transition to net zero through emerging technologies requires flexible digital infrastructure. The data platform we’ve developed for Protium is tailored to manage a resilient and agile digital infrastructure in a cost-effective manner, leveraging the full potential of Protium’s industrial intelligence.”
“Green hydrogen is a key stepping stone in the UK’s ambition to cut CO2 emissions by 1 million tonnes a year by 2030. Achieving this goal cost-effectively and reliably will depend on building the right infrastructure and operating it efficiently. By working closely with AVEVA, we’ve developed the right set of digital tools to enable Protium to deliver green hydrogen at scale – critical at this point when we are about to open a second hydrogen production plant and growing our project portfolio,” said Jon Constable, COO, Protium.
A senior delegation from TAQA Water Solutions has completed a technical tour of Denmark organised by the Water Efficiency Middle East Alliance (WEMA) and supported by the Danish Trade Council, aiming to advance knowledge sharing around sustainable water infrastructure.
Held at a time of heightened focus on water security across the GCC, the visit connected Emirati and Danish water sector leaders to exchange proven strategies for wastewater reuse, energy optimisation, and circular economy practices. The tour aligned with key regional frameworks, including the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036, Net Zero 2050, and Saudi Vision 2030.
With Denmark widely recognised as a pioneer in sustainable utilities, TAQA representatives were given access to in-depth case studies and operational insights that hold strong relevance for Middle Eastern utilities working to meet rising demand with lower environmental impact.
Throughout the visit, TAQA executives engaged directly with Danish utilities, technology companies, and research institutions. Roundtable discussions and site visits were hosted by WEMA member companies such as Grundfos, Danfoss, DHI, NIRAS, Aquaterra, AVK, Watopi, and Aarhus Vand.
Focus areas included sludge and odour management, advanced wastewater reuse, energy-efficient pumping systems, stormwater resilience, and smart digital platforms to improve asset performance.
A highlight of the programme was a dedicated knowledge session with BIOFOS, Denmark’s largest wastewater utility, and Aarhus Water Utility, which is at the forefront of customer-centric water services and climate-adaptive infrastructure.
Groundwork for collaboration
The visit identified clear pathways for deeper technical cooperation, including feasibility assessments for Danish technologies in the GCC and potential pilot projects that demonstrate real-world impact.
TAQA Water Solutions outlined key priorities such as enhancing operational energy efficiency, solving infiltration challenges, and managing complex large-scale pumping requirements, areas where Danish innovation can play a significant role.
As WEMA continues to bridge connections between the Gulf and global water leaders, the mission underlined how structured knowledge exchange can unlock scalable solutions for more resilient, efficient, and future-ready water networks in the region.
“This delegation was more than a visit, it was a strategic exchange of ideas, technology, and shared ambition,” said Astrid SC Nielsen, the Danish Trade Council, Dubai. “TAQA Water Solutions’ commitment to innovation, coupled with Denmark’s decades of water expertise, are the seeds for impactful, long-term collaboration.”
“At TAQA Water Solutions, we have experienced firsthand how innovation profoundly drives comprehensive sustainability. It extends far beyond merely securing vital water and energy systems; it is the fundamental cornerstone reinforcing a resilient circular economy. This strategic imperative ensures that every precious drop is meticulously collected, expertly treated, and purposefully reused, thereby setting new benchmarks for responsible resource management and ensuring a water-secure future,” said Eng. Ahmed Al Shamsi, CEO of TAQA Water Solutions.
He added, “As part of TAQA Group's commitment to providing energy and water to communities worldwide, TAQA Water Solutions drives sustainable development and secures global water resources through strategic investments and collaborative partnerships in markets of growth. This visit exemplifies this mission, evolving beyond a technical exchange, profoundly deepening our shared commitment to advancing sustainable water solutions globally. We are grateful for the generous knowledge-sharing and the invaluable opportunity to learn from a community that has seamlessly integrated sustainability into its daily life, underscoring our belief that innovation truly thrives through reciprocal collaboration.”
Also read: How does the UAE support island nations' water security?

FAMCO supports MAR with Volvo machines, boosting marine and civil construction across Middle East and Africa. (Image source: Volvo CE)
With a robust fleet of Volvo machines provided and supported by Al-Futtaim Auto & Machinery Company (FAMCO), MAR Marine & Building Contracting is taking on technically demanding marine and civil construction projects across the Middle East and Africa, delivering efficiency and minimising downtime
Founded in 2018, MAR Marine & Building Contracting has rapidly established itself as a regional leader in marine and civil infrastructure. Headquartered in both the UAE and Lebanon, with projects spanning multiple countries, MAR has completed more than 200 contracts for over 340 clients, an impressive feat for a relatively new player.
Central to MAR’s success is its focus on quality, timely project delivery and customer satisfaction. The company operates across a wide scope: marine works, steel structures, civil construction, dredging, and sea pipeline installations, serving both public and private clients. Each project poses its own set of challenges, especially in harsh coastal settings where machinery must be both durable and reliable.
Engineering excellence in tough marine conditions
Marine and coastal construction is one of the most complex sectors in the industry, requiring resilience against environmental variables such as saltwater corrosion, fluctuating tides and tight regulatory requirements. To meet these challenges, MAR has invested in more than 40 crawler excavators and articulated haulers from Volvo Construction Equipment.
The Volvo machines have become vital assets in operations such as breakwater construction and sand backfilling. Their corrosion-resistant materials, sealed electrical systems and protected hydraulic components are well suited to marine environments. According to MAR, Volvo’s reputation for robust engineering and performance has been instrumental in their ability to deliver on time.
Partnership rooted in trust
FAMCO, Volvo CE’s long-standing dealer in the UAE, supplies and services MAR’s fleet. This relationship is underpinned by shared values of reliability and service excellence.
“Today we take a moment to thank our trusted partner FAMCO for all their support,” said Marwan Nakhoul, project site engineer at MAR. “In our work, success depends on strong partnerships. FAMCO, together with Volvo Construction Equipment, has always been one of our most trusted partners.”
Nakhoul also pointed to how Volvo’s equipment delivers measurable benefits: “Thanks to the high quality of their machines, we’ve had less downtime and finished our work faster and more efficiently. Our partnership with FAMCO is a big reason for our success.”
Supporting growth across borders
As the demand for marine infrastructure grows across the Middle East and Africa, companies like MAR are playing a key role in driving economic development and coastal resilience. With FAMCO and Volvo CE as dependable partners, MAR is well equipped to expand its footprint, one marine project at a time.
Alcoa Corporation has finalised the sale of its 25.1% stake in the Ma’aden joint venture to Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Ma’aden), marking a strategic exit from the integrated mining complex the two companies launched in 2009.
The transaction was completed under a binding share purchase and subscription agreement.
In exchange, Alcoa received around 86 million Ma’aden shares, valued at approximately US$1.2bn, alongside US$150mn in cash, which will primarily be used to cover taxes and transaction costs.
The company expects to report a gain of roughly US$780mn under other income for the third quarter of 2025.
In line with past asset sales, this gain will be recorded as a special item.
Saudi mining growth
Alcoa, which is based in Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, is a global leader in bauxite, alumina, and aluminium products. It will now hold an estimated 2% of Ma’aden’s outstanding shares.
As stipulated in the agreement, these shares must be retained for a minimum of three years, with one-third eligible for sale after each of the third, fourth, and fifth anniversaries of the transaction’s closing.
However, under certain conditions, Alcoa is allowed to hedge or borrow against the shares during the holding period, and the lock-up may be reduced in specific scenarios.
The Ma’aden joint venture, established as a fully integrated aluminium production complex in Saudi Arabia, comprises the Ma’aden Bauxite and Alumina Company (MBAC) and the Ma’aden Aluminium Company (MAC).
Prior to the deal, Ma’aden held a 74.9% majority stake.
Citi served as Alcoa’s exclusive financial advisor for the transaction, while legal counsel was provided by White & Case LLP.
“While today marks the end of the Joint Venture, the closing of this transaction demonstrates the initial value to our shareholders and enables visibility within Alcoa’s financials until we monetize in the future,” said William F. Oplinger, Alcoa’s president and CEO.
“I thank Ma’aden’s leadership and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for their partnership over the last 16 years, and we look forward to continued engagement as Ma’aden shareholders.”
Also read: Power Metallic gets licensed to explore Saudi mineral belt
DEWALT recently hosted its first 2025 Innovation Day in Dubai, marking a significant milestone in its mission to drive construction industry transformation through cutting-edge tools and technology.
The event brought together more than 200 attendees, including end users, dealers, and key partners, for an exclusive preview of DEWALT’s latest professional-grade solutions.
The showcase featured over 100 advanced products, including the DEWALT POWERSHIFT Cordless Equipment System, cordless tools for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) applications, and a wide range of woodworking solutions.
With interactive zones and live demonstrations throughout the venue, attendees were given a hands-on opportunity to explore the brand’s versatile offerings and experience the performance benefits in real-time.
A highlight of the event was the DEWALT Service Container Project, which demonstrated how the company’s value-added services enhance productivity, improve runtime, and deliver consistent reliability across demanding jobsites.
Innovation Day also served as a platform for DEWALT to strengthen ties with its distributor network and engage directly with the professionals who rely on its tools.
By gathering valuable feedback from users and partners, DEWALT reaffirmed its role as a forward-thinking industry leader committed to continuous improvement and customer-driven innovation.
Speaking at the event, Parmesh Venkateswaran, general manager, Stanley Black & Decker, ME & EWA said, “By bringing together our partners and end users in an innovative event, DEWALT is promoting conversations about the needs of the industry and helping to bolster development of innovative tools for the trades.”