logo
JLL appointed by Reliance Egypt to transform renowned Lazoghly Complex

JLL appointed by Reliance Egypt to transform renowned Lazoghly Complex

Zawya23-04-2025

Cairo, Egypt – JLL, a leading professional services firm specialising in real estate, investment management and development consultancy, has been appointed by Reliance Egypt to support the transformation of the Lazoghly Complex in Cairo, Egypt. JLL will also deliver the Moxy Cairo Downtown, a playful and stylish hospitality brand targeting the 'young at heart' travellers. This initiative is part of the adaptive reuse project of the Lazoghly Complex of buildings.
JLL's Project & Development Services (P&DS) fit-out team will deliver a comprehensive range of project management solutions, including project planning and programming, and cost management, from concept design through to construction and fit-out.
Reliance Developments, the urban regeneration arm of Reliance Egypt, is collaborating with JLL on transforming the seven-building Lazoghly Complex as part of a larger precinct revitalisation effort. It is being repurposed as an integrated mixed-use development, offering a vibrant mix of hospitality services, offices, co-working spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and edutainment facilities. The project seeks to breathe new life into ageing buildings while preserving their heritage and optimising building performance, with JLL providing project delivery solutions for Reliance Developments.
JLL is also offering an extensive range of services to Reliance Ventures, the hospitality arm of Reliance Egypt, on building Moxy Cairo Downtown. The hotel plan includes 365 rooms, a fitness centre, lively public spaces, a fun grab-and-go concept, and communal tables offering ample opportunities for guests to plug and play. These features align with the brand's focus on creating social spaces for modern travellers, with JLL providing project management and cost management services to Reliance Egypt.
Ahmed Hemmat, Head of Project & Development Services at JLL, said: 'The transformation of Lazoghly shows the immense potential of adaptive reuse in reviving ageing buildings. By repurposing these structures, we address the needs of today's users while preserving a part of Cairo's rich heritage. We are excited to be involved in creating a modern, sustainable space with a compelling story about its history.'
Magdi Kassabgui, Chairman & CEO at Reliance Egypt, stated: 'We envision our development as the cornerstone of the broader revitalisation of Downtown Cairo, setting the stage for its transformation into a world-class touristic, cultural, and artistic hub. Our goal is to create a dynamic mixed-use destination that enhances the urban experience by introducing new spaces for work, leisure, and hospitality. This project reflects our commitment to sustainable urban regeneration and our belief in the power of thoughtful design and creativity to breathe new life into the city.'
Ahmed Mostafa, Head of Fit-out Egypt at JLL, added: 'With JLL's extensive experience in hotel projects, we are uniquely positioned to support this exciting rehabilitation. Our team understands the intricate balance required when adapting heritage buildings for modern hospitality use. We are thrilled to bring our expertise to this project, ensuring that the new Moxy Hotel will offer guests an exceptional experience while honouring the building's heritage.'
George Raafat, Head Project Manager at Reliance Developments, added: 'Reliance is proud to be at the forefront of Downtown Cairo's regeneration. We are taking a leading role in the expert conversion of these historic buildings, meticulously preserving their heritage architectural elements while seamlessly integrating them with highly efficient, modern functionalities. By forging strategic partnerships with industry leaders like JLL, we are ensuring the highest standards of execution. This project incorporates cutting-edge sustainable practices, including smart building management technologies for enhanced operational performance, and the use of locally sourced, environmentally friendly building materials.'
The Lazoghly Complex project is expected to set a new standard for adaptive reuse in Cairo, demonstrating how heritage preservation can align with modern, sustainable development practices.
– ends –
About JLL
For over 200 years, JLL (NYSE: JLL), a leading global commercial real estate and investment management company, has helped clients buy, build, occupy, manage and invest in a variety of commercial, industrial, hotel, residential and retail properties. A Fortune 500® company with annual revenue of $23.4 billion and operations in over 80 countries around the world, our more than 112,000 employees bring the power of a global platform combined with local expertise. SEE A BRIGHTER WAYSM. For further information, visit jll.com.
About JLL MEA
Across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) JLL is a leading player in the real estate and hospitality services markets. The firm has worked in 35 countries across the region and employs over 2000 internationally qualified professionals across its offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Cairo, Casablanca, Cape Town, Johannesburg and Nairobi. For further information, visit jll-mena.com.

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

India's GCC to surpass 300m sqft office leasing in 3-4 years
India's GCC to surpass 300m sqft office leasing in 3-4 years

Gulf Today

time7 days ago

  • Gulf Today

India's GCC to surpass 300m sqft office leasing in 3-4 years

India is the most mature market for Global Capability Centres (GCCs), with 44 per cent of GCCs transitioning to take on end-to-end portfolio ownership, drive innovation and peer collaboration with global roles. Initially set up to save costs and help organisations with their business functions, Global Capability Centres (GCCs) have significantly made their presence felt in India. Today, the country is home to over 1,950 such centres established by top multinational corporations, to serve the global and regional market with more efficiency, according to JLL survey. According to the JLL survey, there are 245+ million sq ft Grade A stock occupied by GCCs in the top 7 cities, ~75 per cent combined share of manufacturing, IT/ITeS & BFSI. 71 per cent of all GCC demand since 2018 has been from US-headquartered firms. 40 per cent of overall office leasing activity accounted for by GCCs between 2018-2024. Global Capability Centres are set to surpass 300 million sqft in the next 3-4 years, driven by new entries and expansions. 100+ GCCs entered India in the last two years alone. 28 million sq ft of leasing by GCCs in 2024 has been reported, highest ever in a year. The 3/4th share of Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Chennai in space leased by Global Capability Centres in last two years. 75 per cent combined share of manufacturing, IT/ITeS & BFSI 71 per cent of all GCC demand since 2018 from US-headquartered firms. India is home to the largest number of GCCs globally (over 1,950). This is significantly more than other popular destinations like the Philippines, Poland or China. India has developed strong capabilities in digital technologies and their adoption. High impact areas like AI, blockchain, data analytics, cloud computing and cyber security are at the core of GCC operations in India. India's technology industry expanded its 58-lakh strong workforce by 1.2 lakhs in 2024-25, with Global Capability Centres accounting for over 1 lakh of these roles. The rise of new-age technologies will result in more digital-savvy professionals as the tech sector grows on to become $300 billion industry in FY 2025-26. These centres help centralise and standardise certain functions of the parent organisation. They provide several services, like finance, HR, IT, and procurement, at one place, thereby improving efficiency and lowering costs. Focused on research and development, these centres are innovation hubs for new products, technologies, and processes. Normally, R&D centres are oriented towards a particular field where the parent organisation has shown high levels of expertise and specialisation. These centres are meant to help organisations remotely share information. They are responsible for collating and disseminating knowledge within the organisation and across geographies. Focused on creating a hub for ideas, innovation centres foster innovation and creativity with opportunities for collaboration. These centres are where companies can develop new ideas, conduct research, and build prototypes. They offer a range of services to assist customers in any way possible. They are usually responsible for managing customer inquiries, complaints, and feedback. There are several Indian cities that are considered ideal for a GCC due to their strong infrastructure, skilled workforce, and favourable business environment. For example: Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi-NCR, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Pune. Based on the type of GCC companies are looking to establish, service requirements may vary. There is a need to choose services that best match the functions and operations of the centre. Some common services include legal and regulatory compliance, real estate, technology, human resources, financial support, support services and transportation and logistics. In a world driven by cutting-edge technology, it is important for global capability centres to create a truly tech-savvy office space. The innovation hub needs to keep pace with the digital age and set a standard for the future of work. The landscape of global capability centres is rapidly evolving. Today, it's not just about cost efficiency; it's about building resilient, innovative, and talent-centric hubs. My parents gifted me a residential property in Mumbai. I hold another unit besides some equity. How to minimise tax liability if I wish to sell the unit? Sunil Prabhu, Sharjah. Generally, when you sell a residential property, one option is you can reinvest the capital gain amount into another residential unit before one year from the date or sale or within two years. In case it is invest in a project undergoing construction, the period can be extended to three years. If not wished to reinvest, the capital gain upto Rs 50 lakh can be reinvested in designated bonds. As far as equity is concerned, you can invest the entire sale proceeds into a residential property. I am based in Gulf and investing in a project in Bengaluru. Is GST applicable to all types of residential projects? Please clarify. Deepak Sinha, Dubai. The impact of GST on residential property depends on the phase of construction, the location as well as the type of project. For example, GST impact will be observed more in case of new launches as compared to near completion projects. Similarly, projects in suburban areas will be more impacted when compared to city-centre projects.

Saudi Arabia, UAE lead office quality fit-out investments
Saudi Arabia, UAE lead office quality fit-out investments

Zawya

time03-06-2025

  • Zawya

Saudi Arabia, UAE lead office quality fit-out investments

The corporate sentiment in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) is geared towards targeted investments in overall space design and fit-outs to support return-to-office strategies, according to leading real estate expert JLL. This has accelerated demand for high-quality Grade A office spaces and fit-outs that enhance workplace experience and performance. In its latest 'EMEA Office Fit-Out Cost Guide 2025', JLL has identified Saudi Arabia and the UAE among the top countries globally with a high proportion of cost for high quality finishes, averaging more than $2,400/sqm, against the global average of $1,830/sqm, as workplace design becomes a component part of talent attraction and retention. The JLL EMEA Office Fit-Out Cost Guide 2025, which analyses data from 25 countries to provide insights into cost variations, drivers, sustainability concerns, and market sentiment, has also outlined the complex cost pressures for the EMEA construction sector in 2025, with office fit-out costs increasing in the last 12 months. The steady rise in costs reflects the growing trend of organisations (44%) in the region to increase office-based workdays over the next five years. Dubai also ranks among the top 20 cities globally in the City Cost Index, reflecting continued competition for Grade A spaces, while in Saudi Arabia, initiatives such as regional headquarters (RHQ) programme is also driving demand. JLL has also found that sustainability is a key driver in many relocation strategies and office fit-outs, with 68% of organisations globally planning to increase investment in sustainability performance in the next five years. In MEA, the sentiment is strongest in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where 78% of corporate real estate leaders aim to enhance value through sustainability. Maroun Deeb, Head of Project & Development Services, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain at JLL, said: "The general optimism towards investing in workspaces is likely to continue throughout 2025 as growth-oriented corporations invest in office fit-outs to support their hybrid workplace policies." "Targeted investments to enhance employee experience will see an increased focus on workplace design, innovative technology solutions, and refurbishment opportunities amid growing interest in healthier, energy-efficient workspaces," he stated. Several factors are contributing to the current market dynamics. Supply chain disruptions in 2024 disproportionately affected the Middle East and North Africa, tightening project timeframes and escalating pricing. According to JLL, builders' works, which includes partitions, flooring, finishes, and joinery, typically accounts for the largest component of fit-out costs, ranging from 26% in Cairo and 36% in the UAE to 40% in Saudi Arabia. These costs are among the most susceptible to raw material prices and supply chain risks, it stated. Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) services now account for a higher proportion of office spend as stricter environmental and sustainability standards require more complex systems. Cairo (39%) ranks among the top cities globally for average proportion of costs per sqm for M&E services, while Dubai (30%) and Riyadh (29%) are on par with the global average cost of 29%. Technology integration is also pivotal to enhancing hybrid work environments across all office typologies, with companies in MEA investing in improved and extended AV systems. Gary Tracey, the Head of Project & Development Services UAE at JLL, said: "The demand for high-performance office spaces is intensifying in the UAE as stakeholders increasingly prioritise environmental considerations to drive asset value." "Offices that embrace innovative technologies and sustainable design principles and have higher levels of green certification command a premium, especially in Dubai. Investments to improve sustainability will mitigate future operational expenses, remaining highly attractive to tenants seeking modern, efficient workplaces," he added. JLL said the momentum for sustainable workplaces continues to surge in the region, driven by corporate commitments, evolving expectations, and stricter regulatory requirements. Companies are weighing the cost-benefits of relocation to newer Grade A buildings compared to upgrading existing assets. However, organisations in the region face challenges in meeting sustainability requirements due to limited suitable stock and high costs of upgrading older buildings. To address these challenges, early planning and integration of sustainability targets in relocation strategies and fit-out projects are crucial, it stated. Ahmed Hemmat, Head of Project & Development Services at JLL in Egypt, said: "In a climate of economic uncertainty, organisations that build flexibility and agility into planning will be better positioned to adapt their work settings to evolving workforce needs." "This also supports leasing decisions, as flex spaces optimise costs for landlords and occupiers and create a more engaging and productive work environment to support the needs of today's hybrid work model," he added. Despite the complex landscape of challenges and opportunities, office construction will remain active in the region. To ensure the success of fit-out initiatives, JLL recommends the need for greater collaboration and effective partnerships. From environmental and smart building systems to adaptive workspaces and settings, supply chain engagement is critical in managing costs and allowing for innovation in future-focused workspaces. Copyright 2024 Al Hilal Publishing and Marketing Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (

Saudi Arabia and the UAE lead global office quality fit-out investments as return to office strategies gain momentum: JLL
Saudi Arabia and the UAE lead global office quality fit-out investments as return to office strategies gain momentum: JLL

Zawya

time02-06-2025

  • Zawya

Saudi Arabia and the UAE lead global office quality fit-out investments as return to office strategies gain momentum: JLL

Saudi Arabia and the UAE are among the premium global markets for quality fit-out investments on par with London, New York and Sydney Sustainability is a top corporate driver in many relocation strategies and office fit-outs Cairo earns a top ranking among global cities for average proportion of costs per sqm for M&E services Dubai, United Arab Emirates – The corporate sentiment in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) is geared towards targeted investments in overall space design and fit-outs to support return-to-office strategies, according to JLL's new EMEA Office Fit-Out Cost Guide 2025. This has accelerated demand for high-quality Grade A office spaces and fit-outs that enhance workplace experience and performance. JLL's latest study has identified Saudi Arabia and the UAE among the top countries globally with a high proportion of cost for high quality finishes, averaging more than US$2,400/sqm, against the global average of US$1,830/sqm, as workplace design becomes a component part of talent attraction and retention. The JLL EMEA Office Fit-Out Cost Guide 2025, which analyses data from 25 countries to provide insights into cost variations, drivers, sustainability concerns, and market sentiment, has also outlined the complex cost pressures for the EMEA construction sector in 2025, with office fit-out costs increasing in the last 12 months. The steady rise in costs reflects the growing trend of organisations (44%) in the region to increase office-based workdays over the next five years. Dubai also ranks among the top 20 cities globally in the City Cost Index, reflecting continued competition for Grade A spaces, while in Saudi Arabia, initiatives such as Regional Headquarters (RHQ) Program is also driving demand. JLL has also found that sustainability is a key driver in many relocation strategies and office fit-outs, with 68% of organisations globally planning to increase investment in sustainability performance in the next five years. In MEA, the sentiment is strongest in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, where 78% of corporate real estate leaders aim to enhance value through sustainability. Maroun Deeb, Head of Project & Development Services, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain at JLL, said: 'The general optimism towards investing in workspaces is likely to continue throughout 2025 as growth-oriented corporations invest in office fit-outs to support their hybrid workplace policies. Targeted investments to enhance employee experience will see an increased focus on workplace design, innovative technology solutions, and refurbishment opportunities amid growing interest in healthier, energy-efficient workspaces.' Several factors are contributing to the current market dynamics. Supply chain disruptions in 2024 disproportionately affected the Middle East and North Africa, tightening project timeframes and escalating pricing. Builders' Works, which includes partitions, flooring, finishes, and joinery, typically accounts for the largest component of fit-out costs, ranging from 26% in Cairo and 36% in the UAE to 40% in Saudi Arabia. These costs are among the most susceptible to raw material prices and supply chain risks. Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) services now account for a higher proportion of office spend as stricter environmental and sustainability standards require more complex systems. Cairo (39%) ranks among the top cities globally for average proportion of costs per sqm for M&E services, while Dubai (30%) and Riyadh (29%) are on par with the global average cost of 29%. Technology integration is also pivotal to enhancing hybrid work environments across all office typologies, with companies in MEA investing in improved and extended AV systems. Gary Tracey, Head of Project & Development Services UAE at JLL, said: 'The demand for high-performance office spaces is intensifying in the UAE as stakeholders increasingly prioritise environmental considerations to drive asset value. Offices that embrace innovative technologies and sustainable design principles and have higher levels of green certification command a premium, especially in Dubai. Investments to improve sustainability will mitigate future operational expenses, remaining highly attractive to tenants seeking modern, efficient workplaces.' The momentum for sustainable workplaces continues to surge in the region, driven by corporate commitments, evolving expectations, and stricter regulatory requirements. Companies are weighing the cost-benefits of relocation to newer Grade A buildings compared to upgrading existing assets. However, organisations in the region face challenges in meeting sustainability requirements due to limited suitable stock and high costs of upgrading older buildings. To address these challenges, early planning and integration of sustainability targets in relocation strategies and fit-out projects are crucial. Ahmed Hemmat, Head of Project & Development Services at JLL in Egypt, said: 'In a climate of economic uncertainty, organisations that build flexibility and agility into planning will be better positioned to adapt their work settings to evolving workforce needs. This also supports leasing decisions, as flex spaces optimise costs for landlords and occupiers and create a more engaging and productive work environment to support the needs of today's hybrid work model.' Despite the complex landscape of challenges and opportunities, office construction will remain active in the region. To ensure the success of fit-out initiatives, JLL recommends the need for greater collaboration and effective partnerships. From environmental and smart building systems to adaptive workspaces and settings, supply chain engagement is critical in managing costs and allowing for innovation in future-focused workspaces. About JLL For over 200 years, JLL (NYSE: JLL), a leading global commercial real estate and investment management company, has helped clients buy, build, occupy, manage and invest in a variety of commercial, industrial, hotel, residential and retail properties. A Fortune 500® company with annual revenue of $23.4 billion and operations in over 80 countries around the world, our more than 112,000 employees bring the power of a global platform combined with local expertise. SEE A BRIGHTER WAYSM. For further information, visit About JLL MEA Across the Middle East and Africa (MEA) JLL is a leading player in the real estate and hospitality services markets. The firm has worked in 35 countries across the region and employs over 2000 internationally qualified professionals across its offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Jeddah, Al Khobar, Cairo, Casablanca, Cape Town, Johannesburg and Nairobi. For further information, visit Media Contact: May Ong JLL MEA Nisha Celina | Janine Alamir Burson |

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store