Bahrain’s leading telecom and technology group Beyon has signed up Aecom, a major provider of engineering, consulting and project management services, as the masterplanner for its ambitious Digital City project coming up on a 380,000-sq-m area in Hamala.

The mega project, construction of which is expected to begin in 2025, is being developed in partnership with Bahrain Real Estate Investment Company (Edamah), the real estate arm of Bahrain sovereign wealth fund Mumtalakat Holding Company.

Beyon’s Digital City is firmly anchored in the organisation’s strategic purpose to accelerate the digital future towards enhanced connectivity, fostering growth, prosperity and the betterment of lives.

Functionally, the dynamic mixed-use environment will include Beyon’s main headquarters, as well as R&D centres, healthcare facilities, fitness and recreation centres, and educational premises. In addition, there will be contemporary office spaces, retail and dining areas, as well as hospitality and serviced apartments. 

At the heart of the development lies a 1.2-km green, vehicle-free, boulevard that seamlessly unites these spaces, promoting a harmonious lifestyle.

The project’s backbone is its advanced telecommunications infrastructure, which will power IoT and AI systems, enabling real-time, data-driven urban management for optimal operational efficiency. Residents and visitors will benefit from enhanced user experiences through seamless digital services and the flexibility to integrate future smart technologies.

Beyon said by seamlessly integrating the elements of connectivity, technology, and real estate, the project sets a new standard for mixed-use developments in Bahrain, catering to the needs of advanced digital lifestyles while adhering to international standards for smart cities.

The project also delivers on Beyon’s commitment to sustainability, with plans for LEED certification of buildings, as well as utilising renewable energy sources and implementing efficient resource management practices. Additionally, smart transportation solutions will be integrated to optimise mobility and minimise environmental impact.