Manama: Beyon has announced plans for its extensive 380,000 square metre Digital City project in Hamala, in collaboration with Bahrain Real Estate Investment Company (Edamah), the real estate arm of Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company. The agreement was formalized during the inaugural day of the Gateway Gulf Investor Forum 2024 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Bahrain.
According to Bahrain News Agency, key figures present at the signing included Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, CEO of Mumtalakat and Chairman of Beyon and Edamah, alongside Andrew Kvalseth, CEO of Beyon, and Christopher Calvert, CEO of Edamah. The agreement positions Edamah as the development manager for the Digital City project, with construction set to commence in 2025.
The project underscores Beyon’s commitment to digital transformation, aligning with Bahrain’s national digitalisation goals. It aims to blend connectivity, technology, and real estate, setting a new benchmark for mixed-use developments in Bahrain. This initiative is expecte
d to drive both local and foreign investment, stimulate the economy, create jobs, and foster economic integration across various sectors.
Andrew Kvalseth highlighted, “Beyon’s Digital City is a vision for the future of urban living, rooted in Bahrain’s Vision 2030. It emphasizes liveability, sustainability, inclusivity, and digitalisation, aligning with our core business values. We see it as a lucrative opportunity for investors focused on sustainable growth and returns.”
Kvalseth further described the project’s core elements: People, Nature, and Technology, which will guide the development’s focus on livability, green spaces, and digital integration. The mixed-use environment will house Beyon’s headquarters, R and D centres, healthcare, fitness, and educational facilities, along with office spaces, retail, dining, hospitality, and serviced apartments. Central to the development will be a 1.2 km green, vehicle-free boulevard, promoting a balanced lifestyle.
The project’s infrastructure will support IoT and
AI systems for efficient urban management, offering enhanced digital services and adaptability for future smart technologies. Beyon aims for LEED certification through renewable energy and efficient resource management, incorporating smart transportation solutions to enhance mobility and reduce environmental impacts.
Edamah’s role as development manager is driven by their proven track record in real estate development. Christopher Calvert expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing Edamah’s expertise in ensuring the project meets high international standards while leveraging Beyon’s technological leadership to pioneer smart, sustainable urban development.
The Digital City project is poised to set a precedent in the GCC region, promoting innovative, sustainable, and people-focused urban living, in line with Bahrain’s digitalisation and economic diversification initiatives.