Construction & Real Estate

Dubai Properties Group signs MoU with Higher Colleges of Technology

The leading real estate company in the UAE, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) in Dubai with the main aim of developing a strong Emirati workforce and creating an indigenous training pool for the business sector. The MoU was signed in Dubai by Ms. Farida Abdalla, Human Resources Director of Dubai Properties Group and Dr. Robert Richards, Director of Dubai Men’s College / Higher Colleges Technology.Through the MoU, students of HCT, the largest college in the UAE, will be given opportunities to develop skills and careers in the real estate and other business sectors. "Dubai Real Estate is committed to harnessing local talent and Emiratisation is a major part of our strategy for the UAE, as offering job opportunities for UAE nationals in our organization has always been on our agenda " said Farida Abdalla from Dubai Properties Group". "Our partnership with HCT supports the company’s aim to develop human resources in the UAE and create a dynamic national workforce." adds Farida.

Compliance to 'Green building codes' increases building performance by more than 30%

Compliance to 'Green building codes' can increase the performance of structures by more than 30 per cent, according to recent studies, thereby prompting developers to recognise the dynamic role of the physical environment on occupant productivity and life-cycle cost of buildings. In line with this, AAKAR Marjan Island LLC, an emerging leader in luxury community developments in the Middle East, announced that they would be implementing a sustainable design approach for the construction of its AED 600 million luxury hotel and residential development located on the Al Marjan Island project in Ras Al Khaimah. Further, top company officials have revealed that the initiative involves the implementation of the appropriate latest International Design & Construction guidelines (LEED NC, ASHRAE 90.1, ASHRAE 55 etc.), while taking serious measures to conserve energy and water resources during the design of its maiden project.

UAE mortgage market set for massive growth

The UAE mortgage market is set for a surge in growth as investors are becoming increasingly reliant on mortgages to purchase property, says Chris Dommett, CEO of leading independent mortgage advisor, John Charcol Dubai. According to a recent property survey, nearly 71% of UAE investors require a mortgage to finance their property purchase, indicating a high level of demand within a local market which shows no sign of slowing down. Experiencing massive growth, the UAE mortgage market – currently valued at AED 20 billion – is estimated grow to AED 64 billion within the next three years alone. This demand for mortgages can be attributed to a number of factors, explains Dommett: "The local mortgage market is maturing and both seasoned and first-time investors are taking advantage of attractive mortgage incentives to buy real estate.