Author: Stephen White

ALEC Engineering and Contracting LLC (ALEC), a prominent player in the regional construction industry, has introduced its AHLAN programme to foster the development of Saudi nationals within the Kingdom’s rapidly expanding construction sector. This initiative aims to provide Saudi professionals with the skills, knowledge, and support necessary to thrive in the booming industry, which analysts expect to grow at an Average Annual Growth Rate (AAGR) of 5.2% from 2025 to 2028. The AHLAN programme, which spans 30 days, is designed to accelerate the onboarding process for Saudi recruits by offering tailored business and technical training, mentorship sessions, and daily one-on-one…

Doosan Bobcat employees have once again demonstrated their commitment to community service through the company’s annual Community Days initiative. This year, employees across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) have dedicated their time to various local projects, reinforcing the company’s focus on community engagement and environmental stewardship. Throughout 2024, more than 484 Doosan Bobcat employees across eight EMEA countries contributed 917 volunteer hours, participating in activities aimed at improving their local areas. From the Czech Republic, France, Belgium, Germany, and the UK to South Africa and the United Arab Emirates, these volunteer efforts have made a tangible impact. “Just…

The electrification of construction, agriculture, and mining (CAM) machines is on the rise, with the battery market for these sectors projected to reach US$8 billion by 2034, according to a new report by IDTechEx. The report, “Battery Markets in Construction, Agriculture & Mining Machines 2024-2034,” delves into the different battery chemistries available to support this shift and examines the benefits and challenges of electrifying CAM machinery. The electrification of CAM machines brings several advantages, including improved local air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and safer working environments. Though initial costs can be high, the long-term savings on diesel and maintenance…

Metso has announced a new distribution partnership with Korund, enhancing its presence in the Central Asia region. Under the terms of the agreement, Korund will handle the distribution of Metso’s aggregates solutions in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Meanwhile, Metso will continue to serve minerals segment customers through its direct sales and service network. The partnership enables Korund to sell Metso’s comprehensive range of crushing and screening equipment, wear parts, screening media, and related services, including warranty support. This collaboration will see Metso’s advanced solutions complemented by Korund’s deep technical expertise, market knowledge, and established presence in the region. Carlos Padim, Vice…

Ritchie Bros. has concluded another highly successful unreserved online auction in Dubai on September 24-25, 2024. The event marked the end of a robust third quarter and drew significant global participation, demonstrating the strength and extensive reach of Ritchie Bros.’ auction platform, said the firm. The auction attracted 1,000 bidders from 69 countries, highlighting the international appeal of the event. Of these participants, 490 were from the UAE, and 510 were international bidders, reflecting the platform’s ability to connect buyers from across the world. This diverse participation underscores Ritchie Bros.’ standing as a trusted marketplace for industrial equipment, with a…

Caterpillar Inc. and Trimble have announced an extension of their long-standing joint venture, Caterpillar Trimble Control Technologies (CTCT), with a focus on expanding the distribution of grade control solutions across the construction sector. This renewed agreement aims to accelerate innovation and increase customer adoption of advanced grade control technologies. With the renewed agreement, Caterpillar and Trimble will expand their reach in the industry, offering interoperable grade control solutions through a flexible platform available to Caterpillar, Trimble, and other technology providers and equipment manufacturers. The extension also enables both companies to push the boundaries of innovation, allowing them to develop new…

At the IAA Transportation 2024 in Hannover, SINOTRUK showcases seven advanced models including Yellow River with ultra-low drag coefficient SITRAK hydrogen fuel cell tractor, and HOWO Tongshuai battery electric light truck etc., which could be visited at Booth C08 in Halls 19&20. SINOTRUK fulfills its commitment to green, intelligent, and efficient solutions, contributing Chinese expertise and innovation to shape the future of global commercial industry. Eastern aesthetics, driven by technological innovation Pioneering in China’s commercial vehicle sector, SINOTRUK has maintained a global perspective since entering international markets in 2004. SINOTRUK has topped the export sales of heavy trucks in China…

Rokbak has strengthened its presence in Zimbabwe’s growing construction and mining sectors by appointing Machinery Exchange as its official dealer in the country. A subsidiary of the Industrial Exchange Group (IEG), Machinery Exchange will provide full sales and service support for Rokbak’s articulated haulers, catering to the increasing demand driven by infrastructure and mining projects across Zimbabwe.  Machinery Exchange, celebrating 70 years of operations in 2024, is well-established in Zimbabwe’s earthmoving equipment sector, with its headquarters in Harare and additional branches in Bulawayo and Hwange. Through this partnership, the company will now offer Rokbak’s popular RA30 and RA40 trucks, known…

Etihad Rail Freight, a subsidiary of Etihad Rail has signed a Haulage Services Agreement with Trojan General Contracting. The partnership is said to reinforce Etihad Rail Freight’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and providing end-to-end supply chain solutions for efficiency and reliability across the UAE. The company will provide first and last-mile services to transport aggregates from Trojan’s quarries in Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah via its Al Ghail Dry Port rail terminal in RAK to the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD) and Dubai Industrial City (DIC). Furthermore, Etihad Rail Freight will also offer secure storage services for Trojan General…

ASB Hospitality has appointed Dutco Construction as the main contractor for the Gran Meliá Hotel Dubai Jumeirah. Set to be the first beachfront property under the Gran Meliá brand in the UAE, the resort will be a addition to Dubai’s luxury hospitality sector. Located on the prime headland of Port De La Mer in Jumeirah, the development spans a plot totalling 31,066sqm, and will have a gross floor area (GFA) of 42,522sqm and built-up area of 88,909 sqm. The resort will offer views of the Arabian Gulf from three sides of the hotel and Dubai skyline. “The Gran Meliá Hotel…