It is great to be sharing this week’s project news with you!. A big thank you to subscribers Waldo and Elizabeth from Dubai, who have sent in story suggestions. If you have any project news that you feel is worthwhile sharing with our community, then please send it through to glen@projectmanagementnerd.com! In Today’s Newsletter
Let’s go ahead and get started. Commençons! Project FocusSelf Driving Taxis Begin Operating in December |
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Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced plans to introduce self-driving taxis by December this year, with a trial set to begin on October 1 in Jumeirah 1 for testing purposes. The driverless taxis, equipped with 80 sensors, cameras, and LiDAR systems, aim to enhance road safety by minimising human errors, which contribute to over 90% of accidents. The vehicles are all-electric and designed to serve a diverse range of passengers, including seniors and individuals with disabilities. The goal is for 25% of mobility journeys in Dubai to be driverless by 2030, contributing to a greener and safer transportation ecosystem. KBR Wins Lucrative Woodside Contract
U.S. engineering firm KBR has secured an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) management contract from Woodside Energy. The contract is to modify Woodside’s Pluto LNG facility in Western Australia’s Karratha region, with the aim of producing three million tons per annum of Scarborough gas. The broader Scarborough project entails the installation of a floating production unit with the initial drilling of eight wells, later expanding to thirteen over the field’s lifespan, and transporting gas through a new 430 km trunkline.
Quiz QuestionThe focus today is on project change management. How well-informed are you about this aspect of project management? Question: When managing a project, what is a common reason for implementing a change? A) To make the project team work longer hours B) To increase the project’s scope and objectives C) To reduce the budget allocated for the project D) To maintain the status quo Keep scrolling to find the answer! Middle East NewsStrong Demand Shown for Palm Jebel Ali
Long queues of property agents at the recent Nakheel villa launch in Palm Jebel Ali have evoked memories of Dubai’s pre-global financial crisis property boom, signalling the continued strength of Dubai’s property market. The allure of Palm Jebel Ali lies not only in high returns but also in its prestige and exclusivity, attracting both investors and end-users. The government’s master plan for Palm Jebel Ali, which will add 450km of Dubai coastline, promises expansive green spaces, luxury hotels, smart city technology, and sustainability, enhancing its appeal. With the scarcity of ultra-luxury villas, Palm Jebel Ali’s affordability compared to Palm Jumeirah makes it attractive for potential investors projecting double-digit returns.
Bechtel to Open Regional HQ in Saudi Arabia
Bechtel, a prominent engineering, procurement, construction, and project management firm, has inaugurated its new regional headquarters in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Bechtel’s President and COO, Craig Albert, emphasised the company’s commitment to its regional partners and its 80-year history of contributing to local workforce development and business growth. Bechtel is involved in significant projects in Saudi Arabia, including NEOM, Trojena, the Riyadh Metro Project, and New Murabba.
Other NewsPresident Joe Biden has made history by becoming the first sitting US president to join a picket line in support of striking car workers in Michigan, backing their demand for a 40% pay raise. The United Auto Workers union had declared a strike in November, seeking higher pay, and Biden’s appearance highlights the significance of union support in the 2024 presidential election. Biden expressed his support for the 40% increase, stating, “You deserve what you’ve earned. And you’ve earned a helluva lot more than what you’re getting paid now.” This comes as Republicans engage with car workers to address their concerns regarding the electrification of America’s vehicle fleet and its impact on jobs.
Thousands of ethnic Armenians have fled Nagorno-Karabakh, fearing persecution and ethnic cleansing after Azerbaijan defeated their fighters. The ethnic Armenian leadership urged residents to leave and offered free fuel as they left for Armenia. The victory by Azerbaijan alters the power balance in the South Caucasus region, where Russia, the United States, Turkey, and Iran vie for influence. Armenia had relied on a security partnership with Russia, while Azerbaijan had grown closer to Turkey. The crisis has strained Armenia’s relations with both Russia and the West.
A New York judge has found Donald Trump and his adult sons liable for fraud, cancelling the Trump Organisation’s business certification and stating that the Trumps provided false financial statements for approximately a decade. The judge granted Attorney General Letitia James’ motion for summary judgment, finding the Trumps liable as a matter of law for persistent violations of New York state law, particularly in relation to financial statements provided to lenders and insurers. While the trial will proceed on other charges, the ruling represents a significant setback for Trump, who faces potential financial penalties and restrictions on his business activities in New York.
SportAnge Ball is Transforming Tottenham
Tottenham Hotspur’s impressive start under manager Ange Postecoglou continued with a 2-2 draw against Arsenal. Despite twice falling behind due to errors by defender Cristian Romero, Spurs played a strong attacking game, showing confidence and generating better chances. Captain Son Heung-min scored both of Tottenham’s goals, with the second coming just 98 seconds after Arsenal’s penalty. Postecoglou’s influence has been swift and impressive, with his high-octane style of football finding traction among top-quality players in the Premier League. While they’re not yet the finished product, Spurs appear poised for even greater success under Postecoglou. Blog – Megaprojects – How the Palm Jumeirah was BuiltWith the huge interest in the new Palm Jebel Ali, it is a good time to reflect on the scale of the Palm Jumeirah project.
Newsletters That We LikeBelow are some newsletters that we follow, and you should as well! The Average Joe – The “IKEA instructions for investing” to help you become a better investor. Market trends & insights that are simple, concise, and impactful. Life-changing Concepts – Mental models that give founders an unfair advantage in business. Get a summary of 20 useful mental models when you join. It’s free. The New Money’s Partner Program – Discover what’s next. The New Money features the world’s top stories from early-stage public companies, crypto, and startups. The Morning Brew – Morning Brew covers the latest business, tech, finance & more news in a quick-to-read daily newsletter perfect for busy professionals. AnswerThe correct answer to the Quiz Question: B) To increase the project’s scope and objectives That’s it for now See you next week! Do you have some feedback or want to collaborate with the newsletter? Then email me at glen@projectmangementnerd.com |
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