Airbnb has launched the Airbnb Housing Accelerator, a new program pledging $250 million in last-dollar financing to unlock $5 billion in homebuilding capital. The scheme targets stalled housing developments, starting with a $6.4 million investment for 201 affordable units in Austin, Texas. Alongside capital deployment, Airbnb is supporting local policy reforms, launching a global housing index and establishing a $5 million innovation prize.
Expo 2030 Riyadh has partnered with Mohammed Al Habib Real Estate Company in a 3.2 billion SAR joint venture to construct Expo Village. The residential development will house 5,500 international delegates across 2,300 apartments during the World Expo. Following the six-month exhibition, the sustainable district will convert into a permanent residential community, supporting long-term urban growth in northern Riyadh.
Construction technology firm Buildots has introduced a new platform capability termed 'construction intelligence' to improve project management across major sites. By processing visual data against planned schedules, the system identifies potential delays early. Adopted by firms including Turner Construction and Intel, the platform aims to streamline operational workflows and cut project delay times by up to half across complex developments.
Dubai Holding has awarded an AED 5 billion construction contract to China State Construction Engineering Corporation Middle East (CSCEC ME). Witnessed by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the Group's largest contract to date finances the construction of its new group headquarters and Jumeirah Residences Emirates Towers. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and SCDA Architects respectively, the developments will be completed in 2029 and 2030.
Global real estate manager Starlight Investments has secured £680 million in total capital commitments for its Starlight UK BTR Fund II and related investment vehicles. The capital will finance the acquisition and construction of more than 6,000 build-to-rent homes across the UK. Backed by international institutional investors and Homes England's National Housing Bank, the vehicle has already deployed funds into three major housing schemes.
Modular construction firm NRB is showcasing relocatable and long-life building solutions at the 2026 World Smart City Expo in Busan. The firm addresses urban land shortages by placing temporary, reusable modular structures on underutilised sites, such as car parks and development land. These flexible modules can be moved or reconfigured over time to match shifting local demographic demands, including youth, family and elderly housing needs.
