< PreviousCO-BRANDED COLLECTIONS 20 Left: 2BR living room; Raja Zeidan, COO of RDK Group Could you discuss the role of smart home features and other advanced technologies that Marriott Residences off ers to elevate convenience and connectivity for residents? We’ve implemented smart home features that allow residents to control various aspects of their living environment, from climate control to security systems. Our 24/7 concierge service is also tech-enabled, allowing residents to access services and make requests through digital platforms. How are branded residences integrating wellness-driven spaces, home-offi ce setups, and other lifestyle trends that appeal to modern buyers? Beyond traditional fi tness centres, we’ve created spaces that promote holistic well- being, including landscaped gardens for outdoor relaxation and meditation. Our design philosophy emphasises natural light through fl oor-to-ceiling windows and the use of natural materials and textures, which studies show positively impact residents’ mental well-being. The rise of hybrid work models has signifi cantly infl uenced our approach to space planning. Our units are designed with dedicated areas that can seamlessly transition into productive home offi ces. Additionally, our Owner’s Lounge includes two well-equipped meeting rooms, providing residents with professional spaces for business meetings or collaborative work, essentially bringing the convenience of a business centre to their doorstep. How do you see branded residences evolving in the GCC region? Branded residences are a vital aspect of Dubai’s real estate evolution, as they enhance the city’s appeal to a global audience and provide a diff erentiated off ering in a competitive market. With luxury buyers increasingly seeking properties that provide an integrated lifestyle experience, branded residences will continue to attract both regional and international interest, given the right partnership and blend between the developer/product and brand. What other projects does RDK Group have in the pipeline? We remain committed to expanding our footprint in Dubai’s branded residence sector, with two more developments being the Westin Residence and Autograph Collection. These upcoming projects are aimed at meeting the high demand for luxury, branded lifestyle off erings. We are also actively exploring opportunities in other key markets within the UAE and the region. CWPME_Dec2024_18-21_Co-branded Properties_13456630.indd 2011/12/2024 17:30Untitled-5 105/12/2024 13:26COVER STORY 22 Images supplied by: KA SCO Developments CWPME_Jan2025_22-29_Cover Story_13484922.indd 2206/01/2025 16:20PARTNER CONTENT 23 BUILDING BEYOND BRICKS From ONDA to VAL, Mustafa Al Kaissi reveals how KASCO Developments is crafting more than buildings – creating environments that inspire, connect, and elevate the human experience in the heart of Dubai Mustafa Al Kaissi, Chairman of KASCO Developments, is steering the company towards a future of innovation and sustainability. With a rich history dating back to 1986, KASCO has established itself as a leading developer in the UAE real estate market. The company’s focus on creating exceptional residential and commercial projects that prioritise well-being and community engagement has set it apart from its competitors. With an ambitious pipeline of projects, KASCO aims to expand its footprint in the UAE and leave a lasting legacy in the real estate industry. By embracing sustainable practices and leveraging cutting-edge technologies, the company is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of its customers and contribute to the growth and development of the UAE.. Can you give us a brief overview of KASCO Developments and its journey so far? What sets it apart in the competitive real estate sector? KASCO Developments is part of the KASCO Group, which has been a family- owned business in the UAE since 1986. The group engages in various business activities in trading and logistics, and we’ve been honing our craft in the real estate industry in Dubai since 2008. Over the years, we’ve built a solid reputation for delivering exceptional residential and commercial projects that focus on enhancing the well-being and lifestyle of our residents. Our mission is simple: we want to create spaces that inspire and empower people to thrive. What sets us apart is our holistic approach to development. We manage every aspect of a project, from the initial design to post-handover, ensuring that we maintain our high standards for quality and sustainability. With exciting upcoming projects like ONDA, VAL, and VOLNA, alongside our established landmarks like Waves Tower and KASCO Tower, we’re committed to enriching the communities we serve. ONDA has been described as a fl agship development for KASCO. Can you take us through the conceptualisation and vision behind ONDA in Business Bay? Also, what was the market’s response to the ONDA launch? ONDA is a spectacular project located in the vibrant Business Bay district. We’ve invested over AED 500 million in ONDA to create a space that prioritises wellness and community engagement. This is our statement piece; it’s a refl ection of our identity and our commitment to enhancing lifestyles. With 348 thoughtfully designed residences, we’ve integrated thoughtful spaces into the building, including a running track, an extensive spa, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, and a wellness cafe all aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle. Our slogan, ‘Inspire Your Soul,’ encapsulates our core philosophy of user-centric design. The market response has been CWPME_Jan2025_22-29_Cover Story_13484922.indd 2306/01/2025 16:20COVER STORY 24 overwhelmingly positive, with interest from a diverse range of investors and end-users. After the success of ONDA, KASCO Developments unveiled VAL. What makes this development unique, and how does it align with your overall vision for growth? VAL embodies our vision for growth and innovation. Located in the picturesque Al Jaddaf Waterfront, this is a premium 13-fl oor community featuring 121 meticulously designed residences, off ering stunning views of Dubai Creek. What sets VAL apart is its unique blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, providing residents with a refreshing seaside lifestyle while remaining close to the beating heart of Dubai. With a suite of amenities designed to elevate daily living, including a fully equipped gym, swimming pool, and yoga area, VAL is more than just a residence; it’s a sanctuary. As we look forward to welcoming our fi rst residents by Q4 2026, we are excited to continue setting new benchmarks in premium living. With VAL being your second off -plan project, what have you learned from CWPME_Jan2025_22-29_Cover Story_13484922.indd 2406/01/2025 16:20PARTNER CONTENT 25 Left: Wellness Cafe Centre: Living Room ONDA that you have applied to this new development? From our experience with ONDA, we learned the importance of user-centric design and community engagement. Feedback from residents helped us refi ne our approach, ensuring that VAL not only meets aesthetic standards but also enhances daily living. We focused on creating open-plan layouts and maximising natural light, which were key preferences identifi ed in ONDA. Additionally, we prioritised sustainability and innovative amenities, ensuring that VAL off ers a harmonious blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. These insights have been instrumental in shaping VAL into a transformative living experience that resonates with the needs and desires of modern residents. KASCO Developments has ambitious plans, including a pipeline of 1 million square feet of residential projects by 2025. Can you give us more insight into this ambitious pipeline? KASCO Developments is poised to make a signifi cant impact in the UAE property market with an ambitious pipeline of 1 million square feet of residential projects by 2025. Drawing on over 30 years of experience from the KASCO Group, we aim to innovate by creating lifestyle- driven, premium residential spaces. Our initial investment exceeds AED CWPME_Jan2025_22-29_Cover Story_13484922.indd 2506/01/2025 16:20COVER STORY 26 1.2 billion, focusing on launching and delivering three key projects in sought- after areas like Business Bay and Al Jaddaf. We are passionate about client well-being and creating an inspiring living experience, blending design and functionality. As you move forward with future projects, how do you plan to balance expansion with maintaining the high standards of quality and wellness that are central to your brand? We have implemented rigorous quality control measures and prioritised client feedback throughout the development process. By integrating innovative design and modern technology, we aim to create spaces that not only meet but exceed expectations. Our focus on professionalism and reliability will ensure that each project refl ects the high standards synonymous with the KASCO brand and builds trust with our customers. Are there any new or innovative technologies or construction practices that KASCO is exploring to improve effi ciency or sustainability in your upcoming projects? Part of our enhancement of the living experience is including smart home technologies, energy-effi cient systems, and sustainable materials that contribute CWPME_Jan2025_22-29_Cover Story_13484922.indd 2606/01/2025 16:21PARTNER CONTENT 27 Left: Spa at ONDA; Indoor pool Right: Bedroom with a view; Haider Al Mansouri, Head of Engineering, KASCO Developments; Issa Abdul Rahman, CEO, KASCO Developments; Mustafa Al Kaissi, Chairman KASCO Developments; Marwan Al Kaissi, COO, KASCO Developments; Ramzi Batchoun, CFO, KASCO Developments to a healthier environment. Sustainability is truly at the heart of the KASCO development philosophy, as seen in our commitment to integrating biophilic elements that connect residents with nature. This includes the use of natural materials, green spaces, and water features that create a serene living environment. Additionally, the focus on sustainability extends to energy-effi cient building practices and the use of renewable resources, which are essential in reducing the carbon footprint of developments. CWPME_Jan2025_22-29_Cover Story_13484922.indd 2706/01/2025 16:21COVER STORY 28 How do you foresee the UAE real estate market evolving, and how is KASCO adapting to those changes? As we look ahead to 2025, the market will continue to expand driven by population growth in Dubai – expected to exceed four million next year – which will increase demand for residential properties, particularly in emerging areas. New policies promoting 100% foreign ownership and an expanded golden visa scheme are set to attract foreign investment, especially in luxury real estate. Additionally, the booming tourism sector will enhance the short-term rental market. Foreign investment has been a driving force in the UAE’s real estate market, and we expect this trend to continue. The country’s strategic location, favourable business environment, and attractive lifestyle options make it a prime destination for international investors – especially as we see most of the rest of the world dealing with economic, political, or social turmoil. Left: Pool with the view of Burj Khalifa Right: Facade of the building with the pool CWPME_Jan2025_22-29_Cover Story_13484922.indd 2806/01/2025 16:21PARTNER CONTENT 29 How do you manage risk, and what is your approach to future-proofi ng KASCO’s developments in a constantly evolving market? Managing risk is integral to our strategy at KASCO Developments. We employ a proactive approach by conducting thorough market analysis and scenario planning to anticipate potential challenges. Our focus on sustainable design and innovative technologies ensures that our developments remain relevant and adaptable to changing market demands. We tend to avoid trend- following and instead opt to develop projects that have a timeless feel to them. By forging strong partnerships and maintaining open communication with stakeholders, we can swiftly respond to shifts in the industry, ensuring that KASCO not only survives but thrives. As you look to the future, what are the key milestones KASCO Developments aims to achieve in the next 5 to 10 years? What legacy do you hope to leave behind in the UAE real estate market? Our initial investment of AED 1.2 billion refl ects our confi dence in the UAE real estate market and our commitment to delivering exceptional projects. When people hear “KASCO”, we want them to picture a group that consistently over- delivers on their promises and develops projects that genuinely enhance urban living, placing the residential experience at the core of the design. Sustainability is truly at the heart of the KASCO development philosophy, as seen in our commitment to integrating biophilic elements that connect residents with nature” CWPME_Jan2025_22-29_Cover Story_13484922.indd 2906/01/2025 16:21Next >