ECC will employ Design & Build and Value Engineering services, highlighting the company’s dedication to delivering high-quality, cost-effective solutions. With a seasoned team managing every detail, ECC Contracting will ensure the design upholds the highest standards of innovation, aesthetics, and functionality in alignment with EMAAR’s vision for the Bridge District. 

With this latest award, ECC strengthens its presence within the Bridge District, having previously secured four other plots—Kaya, Elaya, Fia, and Ora, which are also under construction. This series of projects underscores ECC’s ongoing partnership with Emaar and its expertise in executing large-scale, design-and-build contracts with excellence and efficiency. 

A New Standard in Waterfront Living 

Tucked in the vibrant heart of Dubai Creek Harbour, Arlo offers a lifestyle defined by contemporary elegance and serene surroundings. Here, every day begins with picturesque views of Dubai Creek, and every moment is an opportunity for peace and rejuvenation. In this charming city designed for the future, Arlo is not just a place to live, it is a place to love. 

Strategically positioned at the crossroads of Al Jaddaf and Festival City, Arlo ensures unparalleled connectivity. With efficient road networks, four metro stations, and a water taxi to Downtown Dubai, residents are effortlessly linked to the heart of the city. 

Arlo seamlessly combines the tranquillity of natural surroundings with the convenience of urban life. A mere four-minute walk connects residents to the metro, providing easy access to Dubai’s diverse attractions. Just an 80-meter stroll leads to a lush neighbourhood park, offering a serene retreat in nature. Additionally, Arlo’s proximity to the vibrant creek promenade grants immediate access to waterfront dining and shopping experiences. 

A Commitment to Excellence 

Arlo will feature state-of-the-art amenities, luxurious living spaces, and sustainable, compliant designs that align with Dubai’s rigorous regulatory standards. This development is set to bring unique features and offer exclusive lifestyle experiences for its residents. 

Engineering Contracting Company (ECC) is one of the UAE’s leading construction firms, known for its expertise in high-rise developments, infrastructure, and complex design-build projects. With a portfolio spanning five decades, ECC Contracting continues to set benchmarks in construction excellence across the region. 

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What if you could feel calmer, more focused, and energized — using nothing but your voice?  Vocal toning and sound therapy offer exactly that: a simple, accessible way to enhance your mental and emotional well-being through the power of sound. Whether you’re managing stress, seeking clarity, or just curious to try something new, this practice is easy to learn and highly effective. 

What Is Vocal Toning? 

Vocal toning is the art of making sustained vowel sounds to create soothing vibrations in your body — like singing at its simplest level.  These vibrations resonate with energy centers throughout the body, helping to restore balance and harmony.  Think of it as a gentle “tune-up” for your mind and body, all through the sound of your voice. 

To try it, start with the sound “Ah” (like in “father”). As you exhale and stretch the sound, you may feel gentle vibrations in your chest.  Each vowel sound corresponds to a specific part of the body, offering a unique way to connect with and restore energy to that area. 

Even easier, and also effective, is humming.  Simply close your lips and hum on a comfortable pitch.  Humming creates subtle vibrations that calm the nervous system and stimulate the vagus nerve, which plays a vital role in relaxation. 

Why Is Sound So Powerful? 

Sound has been used as a healing tool for centuries, and modern science confirms its benefits. Vibrations from vocal toning and humming interact with the nervous system, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.  The combination of deep breathing, mindfulness, and sound during vocal toning creates a powerful response in the body — while calming the mind and enhancing focus.  It’s like a mini-meditation, but one that feels active and engaging. 

How to Get Started? 

Vocal toning is simple and requires no prior experience. Here’s how you can try it: 

1. Find a Quiet Spot: Sit comfortably in a space where you won’t be disturbed. 

2. Choose a Sound: Start with an “Ah” sound. 

3. Breathe Deeply: Inhale fully through your nose. 

4. Make the Sound: As you exhale, let out a long, sustained “Ah.” Hold it as long as you can comfortably manage. 

5. Feel the Vibrations: Pay attention to where you feel the sound in your body. 

6. Repeat: Do this 3 – 5 times. Experiment with other sounds like “Oh” or “Ee.” 

Real Benefits, Real Experiences 

Sound therapy offers many benefits: 

A Personal Experience 

Here’s what one ECC employee shared after attending a recent sound therapy workshop: 

Final Words 

Sound therapy is a simple yet powerful way to enhance your wellbeing — whether you practice solo or invite your friends and family for a group “tone-a-thon”.  At ECC, we are introducing vocal toning and sound therapy to our staff as a powerful tool for their wellbeing.  With live sessions in the works at ECC HQ, we are actively singing the praises (excuse the pun) of vocal toning and how it can help you feel calmer, more focused, and re-energized. 

Take a moment to explore the power of your voice — and discover how sound can transform your day.  Let’s find our own inner balance, one tone at a time! 

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ECC stands as a testament to innovation in the UAE’s construction industry. For over five decades, we have been instrumental in shaping the region’s skyline and redefining construction standards through our pioneering approach. 

At the event, ECC showcased its commitment to enhancing efficiency and sustainability through advanced construction technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Building Information Modeling (BIM), Modular and Precast Systems, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The company also emphasized Lean principles such as Kaizen, 6S Lean, Kanban, and Just-In-Time. These initiatives position ECC as a leader in optimizing resources and addressing sustainability challenges, fully aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. 

ECC was the first contracting company in the Middle East and North Africa to be certified by BSI for ISO 18404:2015 (Lean Six Sigma) in 2023. In 2018, ECC received certification for ISO 19650:2018 (BIM for design, construction, and commissioning). All ECC projects are built using 3D design tools such as Revit, Navisworks, and Autodesk 360 (a 3D model collaboration tool on the cloud, shared with our supply chain for their input). These tools enhance collaboration during the design phase, ensuring a smoother construction process on-site. 

DesertBoard® showcased the region’s most sustainable building material, Palm Strand Board (PSB®), made from annually regenerated date palm biomass. This locally manufactured bio-based solution goes beyond a typical building board, representing a transformative step towards sustainable construction that supports KSA’s ambitions for environmental stewardship and economic diversification. 

The boards are designed for a circular economy, as they can be reused or recycled at the end of their lifecycle, minimizing environmental impact. 

Mr. Kamal Farah, Director at DesertBoard®, shared key insights on sustainable building solutions at the Gulf’s largest technology event, stating, “DesertBoard® is pioneering the bioeconomy and spearheading the circular economy to elevate the region’s sustainable agenda by meeting global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).” 

DesertBoard’s zero-emission boards are fully aligned with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, actively supporting its goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions. We take pride in our 100% deforestation-free supply chain, which retains approximately 60,000 tons of CO2 annually through our manufacturing process. Our engineered products are 100% recyclable and reusable, contributing to the circular economy in the region. 

Manufactured to meet the diverse needs of the Gulf market for a resilient built environment, our engineered boards align with sustainable design principles, complementing KSA’s initiatives for sustainable building practices that encourage the use of locally sourced and environmentally friendly materials in construction. 

We are honored to welcome an inquisitive audience, and their interest in our 100% sustainable, zero-emission Palm Strand Board (PSB®) was truly inspiring. The success of this event is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing sustainable solutions for construction and allied industries. 

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As part of this initiative, a Rising Stars Dinner Event was held on October 8, 2024, at the Dubai Grand Millenium Hotel, where the 19 selected Rising Stars had the privilege of dining with the Chairman and the board members, marking an invaluable opportunity for connection and inspiration. Through a stringent selection process driven by Mr. Kareem Farah, Mr. Samer Abu Daqqa, Mr. Nidal Hassoun, Mr. Hisham Burhani, Mr. Amr Metwally, and Mr. Karthikeyan Sabapathy, these standout employees were chosen for their exemplary performance, aspirations, and potential to shape ECC’s future. Representing diverse companies, departments, and roles, these Rising Stars are now embarking on a journey of growth and leadership development.

Front row, from left: Mr. Mhd Said Mhd Khaled Daker, Mr. Mohamed Ahmed Badr, Mr. Rami Abufares, Mr. Ihab Mohammed Mansour, Ms. Sanjeewani Sakunthala Edirisinghe, Ms. Rana Usama Elsayed Elshebeiny, Mr. Ehab Alsosi, Mr. Mohamed Magdy Mohamed Abdelsalem Abdelal, Mr. Nagoor Mohideen Maraikhan, Mr. Mousa Ali Mousa Al Omari, Mr. Gabriel Hebert, and Mr. Ahmad Al Nabelsi.
Back row, from left: Mr. Ron Alfred Castillo, Mr. Fadi Sabah, Mr. Mohamad Hamze Ali, Mr. Ahmed M Q Abushahla, Mr. Mohammad Almadani, and Mr. Omar Majed Rasheed Zaid Al Keilani.
Note: Mr. Mohamed Alaskry was absent.

A Shared Commitment to Growth 

Among these emerging leaders, Mr. Ahmad Al Nabelsi, Operations Manager at Abanos, brings 24 years of operations expertise to his role. Joining in 2023, Mr. Nabelsi emphasizes the importance of ownership and accountability, urging others to take the initiative. Similarly, Senior Construction Manager Mr. Ahmed M Q Abushahla, an esteemed ECC team member since 2006, regards the company as his second family. For Mr. Abushahla, being part of the Rising Stars Program is a privilege and a motivator, and he advises new employees to seize the opportunity to join ECC’s collaborative, nurturing environment. 

Perseverance and Dedication at the Core 

Among ECC’s rising stars are individuals who lead by example through persistence and hard work. Project Accountant Mr. Ehab Alsosi, who joined ECC as an accountant in 2018 views the Rising Stars Program as a recognition of his commitment to enhancing processes and maximizing project success through continuous improvement. In alignment with this approach, Construction Manager Mr. Fadi Sabah, who has been with ECC since 2016, has managed five significant projects, including the prestigious Hotel Vida. His advice to colleagues is to constantly push themselves, explore new ideas, and aim for continuous improvement. 

Mr. Gabriel Hebert, Business Development Manager, joined ECC in 2021, bringing 18 years of experience in construction and is excited to support ECC’s long-term strategic vision. His role in business development has allowed him to work on key initiatives, and he is eager to contribute to ECC’s long-term direction. 

Fostering Technical and Strategic Skills 

Many of ECC’s rising stars aim to enhance their technical and leadership abilities. Construction Manager Mr. Ihab Mohammed Mansour, a 15-year ECC veteran, believes that diligence and dedication are the true markers of success. Complementing this outlook, Lean Engineer Mr. Mohamed Badr joined DesertBoard in 2023, focusing on transforming its work culture by implementing action plans, trackers, and data-driven decisions. With prior experience at Elsewedy Electric and LG Electronics, he is dedicated to fostering continuous improvement and efficiency across projects. 

Construction Manager Mr. Mohamad Hamze Ali, a member of ECC since 2016, considers the program a valuable recognition of his dedication. His growth journey at ECC stands as an example of the organization’s potential, encouraging colleagues to pursue development actively and seek support from leadership. 

A Focus on Innovation and Continuous Learning 

Senior Technical Engineer Mr. Mohamed Ibrahim Mohamed Alaskry joined ECC in 2021, adding a fresh perspective to ECC’s engineering efforts. Shortlisted for BIM Champion of the Year, Mohamed embodies ECC’s commitment to innovation and advancement in technology. Similarly, Project Technical Manager Mr. Mohamed Magdy Mohamed Abdelsalem Abdelal, who also joined ECC in 2021, is inspired by ECC’s leadership and aspires to contribute to the company’s growth while reaching new professional heights. 

Project Manager Mr. Mhd Said Mhd Khaled Daker, who joined PMI in 2023, values the development of management skills and team-building abilities. In line with ECC’s mission to foster holistic growth, Project Planning Manager Mr. Mohammad Almadani, who joined in 2013, views ECC as an environment where personal and professional skills are honed. 

Empowering Visionary Thinkers 

ECC’s Rising Stars Program also includes employees who see ECC as a place where ambition meets opportunity. Senior Technical Engineer Mr. Mousa Ali Mousa Al Omari, part of ECC since 2023, values the vast opportunities for growth ECC offers. He encourages newcomers to persist in their efforts, viewing ECC as a golden opportunity for advancement. Lean Construction Engineer Mr. Nagoor Mohideen Maraikhan, who joined in 2022, focuses on improving efficiency and innovation within the construction process. 

Construction Manager Mr. Omar Zaid Al Keilani began his career at ECC in 2015, progressing from site engineering to Construction Management. He believes success is built on faith, confidence, hard work, and proactive, consistent effort, viewing project management as a system where processes must work in harmony for long-term success. Project Cost Control Manager Mr. Rami Abufares, who has been an invaluable employee with ECC since 2008, sees the Rising Stars Program as an opportunity to sharpen problem-solving and time-management skills. 

Committed to Leadership and Professional Growth 

The Rising Stars Program is also cultivating future leaders who are eager to contribute and grow within ECC. Senior Architect Ms. Rana Usama Elsayed Elshebeiny, with over 11 years of experience, values ECC as a platform for career growth and innovation. She views the Rising Star recognition as a testament to ECC’s support for diversity and inclusion, empowering her to continue driving excellence in the industry. Project QAQC Manager Mr. Ron Alfred Castillo, who has dedicated over 11 years to ECC, is focused on enhancing his leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities to advance within the company. 

Senior Quantity Surveyor Ms. Sanjeewani Sakunthala Edirisinghe joined ECC in 2021 and has worked on impactful projects. She encourages new team members to face challenges head-on, emphasizing the value of resilience and adaptability. 

Shaping the Future of ECC 

The Rising Stars Program reflects ECC’s commitment to fostering a culture of growth, recognition, and leadership. Each of these 19 individuals represents ECC’s core values of dedication, perseverance, and ambition. Through mentorship and skill-building opportunities, these Rising Stars are preparing to become key contributors to ECC’s continued success and are poised to lead ECC into an exciting future. As they develop and excel, they embody the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines ECC, setting the stage for new achievements and continued excellence. 

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ECC will showcase its commitment to enhancing efficiency and sustainability through advanced construction technologies. Attendees can explore ECC’s application of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Building Information Modeling (BIM), Modular & Precast Systems, and the Internet of Things (IoT), alongside Lean principles such as Kaizen, 6S Lean, Kanban, and Just-In-Time. These initiatives position ECC as a leader in optimizing resources and addressing sustainability challenges, fully aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. 

DesertBoard will showcase the region’s most sustainable building material, Palm Strand Board (PSB®), made from annually regenerated date palm biomass. This locally manufactured bio-based solution goes beyond a typical building board, representing a transformative step towards sustainable construction that supports KSA’s ambitions for environmental stewardship and economic diversification. 

The boards are designed for a circular economy, as they can be reused or recycled at the end of their lifecycle, minimizing environmental impact. 

Mr. Kamal Farah, Director at DesertBoard®, has expressed his excitement towards exhibiting PSB® product line at the Saudi Wood Expo, stating “With a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation, our high-performance products complement the Kingdom’s vision for a greener future.”   

Mr. Hatem Farah, Chairman of ECC Group, shared his thoughts on the participation: 
” Our Palm Strand Board is not just a product; it represents a vision for a greener future. We look forward to engaging with industry leaders at ConFeX and demonstrating how our solutions can help meet the growing demand for sustainable building materials in the region.” 

The Construction Technology ConFeX KSA 2024 is expected to gather leading industry experts, innovators, and decision-makers. ECC and DesertBoard are exicted to engage with stakeholders at the event to shape the future of construction in Saudi Arabia and contribute to the kingdom’s vision for sustainable development. 

For more information, please visit us at Stand 29 at the Crowne Plaza, Riyadh RDC Hotel and Convention. 

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ECC has a rich history of team-building days, sports days, and volunteer community events in line with our well-being ethos.  Therefore, we feel so aligned with the new UAE Federal Mental Health Law that was enacted in May 2024.  This progressive legislation focuses on promoting mental health awareness and mental wellbeing, improving access to care, and protecting the rights of individuals seeking mental health support.  At ECC, we are proud that we are already pioneers in this space, and hugely supportive of this incredible step forward to creating healthier workplaces across the UAE.

One of our new-launched initiatives is meditation workshops. In August, we organised two meditation workshops for our team at Nilaya House, a nearby yoga centre.  The workshops offered the opportunity to relax, recharge, and learn some new stress management techniques.

Although many organisations talk about mindfulness in the workplace, we took it a step further.  The core of each workshop was a guided meditation.  Based on the ancient practice of Yoga Nidra, meditation was adapted and modernised to create an incredibly effective approach for reducing stress, improving relaxation, and recharging energy — especially for those of us working in the busy corporate world.  Practised lying down on a comfortable mat, with eyes closed, all that is required is to listen to the verbal guidance of the meditation facilitator.  The session takes us through physical relaxation techniques, letting go of the day’s activities, awareness of breathing, and focusing on how the body feels while setting a clear intention to let go of stress. 

We combined guided meditation with sound therapy including the pure vibration of crystal and Himalayan singing bowls and chimes.  After the session, we sampled the power of vocal toning, which simply means singing various vowel sounds at different notes out loud, as a group. Vocal toning is a little-known yet highly effective means of releasing built-up tension and promoting a sense of emotional balance.

Over the two workshop sessions, we were delighted with the turnout for this new initiative and received very positive feedback.  Mr Hadi Farra, who attended one of the sessions, shared his experience: “It was my first time doing essentially a sound therapy session, it can be a very relaxing experience if you are open to it. It was a nice way to wrap up a long workday, not a typical end to the day.  I would recommend a session like this to people of similar interests as it was a fun and relaxing experience, probably something new to most of us. It was also an opportunity to bump into ECC team members that we may not normally interact with.” 

We look forward to being able to organise more meditation workshops in the near future and work towards building a regular programme of group sessions and wellness tools.  While we understand it is a new experience for some people, we have no doubt that the interest will grow as more people see and feel the benefits.  Together, these practices create a holistic approach to stress relief, helping to unwind, recharge, and ultimately improve both well-being and productivity.

At ECC, we are excited to be building on our existing wellbeing programme and mental health resources.  By embracing new mental health initiatives, we continue prioritising employee support programmes and wellbeing, and we openly invite and welcome all employees to participate in our wellness programs and provide valuable feedback. Your voice matters, and together, we can create a vibrant and supportive community at ECC.  Let’s work together to cultivate a workplace where everyone can flourish.

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The event featured a warm ambiance filled with joy and camaraderie as attendees gathered to break their fast together. With a commitment to fostering a sense of community and appreciation, Engineering Contracting Company welcomed guests from diverse backgrounds, reflecting the company’s dedication to inclusivity and harmony. 

“We are delighted to have shared this special evening with our valued team members, partners, and community members,” said Mr. Hatem Farah, Chairman, ECC Group. “This Iftar gathering embodies our company’s core values of unity, respect, and collaboration, reinforcing our commitment to diversity and cultural understanding.” 

The Iftar party showcased a rich array of traditional culinary delights, creating an atmosphere of togetherness and shared enjoyment. Guests engaged in meaningful conversations, strengthening relationships and forging new connections amidst the festive ambiance. 

As part of our corporate social responsibility initiatives, Engineering Contracting Company also took the opportunity to express gratitude by giving back to the community through charitable contributions and initiatives aimed at supporting those in need during Ramadan. 

The success of the event was marked by the spirit of generosity and inclusivity that permeated throughout, reflecting Engineering Contracting Company’s ethos of excellence and compassion. 

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Ajman University (AU) hosted the highly acclaimed AU Career Fair 2024, drawing over 70 companies and attracting more than 1500 students and alumni. ECC, alongside other prominent companies like Al Ghurair Group, Alpha Data, and Huawei, played a significant role in the event. Keynote speaker Adnan Hadi explored the transformative impact of AI, while a panel discussed ‘Career Resilience,’ addressing prevalent burnout issues. 

With over 50 years of experience sculpting the skyline of the UAE, ECC’s participation underscored its dedication to fostering career growth and supporting students through workshops, mentorship sessions, and CV clinics. Ajman University’s global recognition, ranked 279th for Employer Reputation in the QS World University Rankings 2024, further highlights the importance of such events in building connections between top-tier talent and leading industry players like ECC. 

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Set against the backdrop of fostering team spirit and promoting a healthy lifestyle, ECC’s Annual Sports Day was a testament to its commitment to employee well-being and community engagement. Participants enjoyed a diverse range of sports activities tailored to all age groups, ensuring an inclusive and engaging experience for everyone involved. 

Mr. Hatem Farah, Chairman of ECC Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “The Annual Sports Day is a cherished tradition at ECC, embodying our values of unity, collaboration, and fun. It’s a time when our entire ECC family comes together to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship and strengthen bonds beyond the workplace.” 

Attendees experienced a day filled with friendly competitions, team-building exercises, and exciting entertainment for both adults and children. From relay races to tug-of-war challenges, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, a variety of interactive games and activities were available to ensure a memorable experience for families and kids alike. 

With a legacy of excellence in project delivery, ECC Group’s employees showcased their leadership qualities both on and off the field, demonstrating unwavering dedication and spirit. The Annual Sports Day served as a testament to our dedication to fostering a vibrant and inclusive workplace culture while promoting the importance of physical activity and teamwork.

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ECC has been instrumental in shaping the skyline of the UAE over the last 50 years. We pride ourselves on employing the best value-engineered, innovative solutions, maintaining our reputation for quality, timely delivery, and engineering excellence.    

Big Project Middle East (BPME) is one of the most recognized construction-focused trade publications in the region. Winning an award from BPME indicates earning a well-recognized and highly valued badge of excellence. 

Now in its 14th year, Big Project ME’s Excellence in Construction Awards has significantly expanded its scope to focus on contractors, developers, operators, projects, sustainability, and individuals, welcoming nominations from across the MENA region. 

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