Turner & Townsend Appointed to Manage du’s First Hyperscale Data Centre in the UAE

Turner & Townsend, a leading global programme management and cost consultancy, has been entrusted with the pivotal role of managing du's first hyperscale data centre in Dubai, UAE. This significant venture marks an important milestone in the expansion of the country's digital infrastructure. With a planned footprint of 20,000 square metres, the data centre is designed to meet the increasing demand for high-performance computing solutions and secure cloud infrastructure.

Project Overview: A Leap Towards Digital Transformation

The hyperscale data centre will not only enhance du’s capabilities but is also poised to play a crucial role in the UAE’s ambition to establish itself as a regional AI hub. The design prioritises high resilience, flexible features, and energy efficiency. In line with sustainability goals, this project targets LEED Gold sustainability certification, ensuring that the data centre aligns with global best practices for environmental performance.

High angle view of a modern data centre in Dubai

The UAE's strategic investment in such advanced facilities signifies the nation's commitment to fostering digital transformation. The partnership with Turner & Townsend reflects an emphasis on world-class project management and execution.

Partnerships and Stakeholders: Strengthening the Vision

The collaboration between du, Turner & Townsend, and Microsoft is particularly noteworthy. In April 2025, Microsoft announced a substantial investment deal worth 2 billion AED ($544.54 million) to bolster cloud infrastructure in the region. This partnership is designed to accelerate the delivery of innovative solutions and technologies that can empower businesses across various sectors.

Ajay Mangara, Data Centre Lead for UAE at Turner & Townsend, is spearheading this ambitious project, underscoring the importance of comprehensive project management. The collaboration highlights the importance of leveraging industry expertise and technology to create facilities that support high-demand applications in AI and cloud computing.

Technical Specifications and Features of the Hyperscale Data Centre

The design and construction of the data centre will employ cutting-edge technologies and methodologies, tailored to ensure maximum operational efficiency. Key features include enhanced thermal management systems, advanced power and cooling systems, and scalable infrastructure to support increasing data workloads.

Energy efficiency is a central pillar of the design, enabling reduced operational costs and a lower carbon footprint, thus contributing to the UAE's sustainability objectives. The hyperscale data centre's infrastructure will be capable of supporting expanding demands, aligning with trends in cloud computing and big data analytics.

Eye-level view of an efficient green energy system for data centres

According to industry reports, hyperscale data centres are expected to drive significant growth in the UAE’s digital economy. The facility will accommodate diverse workloads and advanced cloud services, further enhancing du's market competitiveness.

Why Hyperscale Data Centres are Essential in the UAE

The rise of hyperscale data centres in the UAE can be attributed to the widespread adoption of digital technologies across various sectors. As businesses increasingly rely on cloud-based solutions, the demand for high-capacity, resilient infrastructure has surged.

These centres are designed to handle workloads for large enterprises, e-commerce platforms, and other data-intensive operations. For contractors, consultants, and investors, this presents a unique opportunity to engage in a rapidly evolving market that prioritises innovation and efficiency.

The Role of Turner & Townsend in Delivering Excellence

Turner & Townsend's expertise in project and cost management serves as a cornerstone for the successful delivery of du’s hyperscale data centre. The firm applies a systematic approach to manage risk, cost, and time—three critical elements in construction projects of this magnitude.

As the project progresses, Turner & Townsend will implement rigorous monitoring and reporting mechanisms to ensure alignment with project specifications and timelines. Their involvement will help mitigate potential risks and streamline communication among all stakeholders, ensuring that the project's goals are met efficiently.

Close-up view of logistics management software utilized in project management

In summary, the successful management of this hyperscale data centre project requires a firm commitment to quality, collaboration, and innovation, values which Turner & Townsend embodies.

Future Prospects: Implications of the Data Centre

The investment and subsequent deployment of this hyperscale data centre signal a broader trend in the UAE’s market, specifically in the areas of digital transformation and cloud infrastructure development. With du at the forefront, supported by Turner & Townsend and Microsoft, the data centre is expected to facilitate enhanced service offerings across multiple sectors.

As the facility becomes operational, it will likely open the doors for new business models, drive efficiencies, and support the UAE's goal of becoming a leading tech hub in the region. This development aligns with global movements towards digital ecosystems that leverage advanced technologies, creating a competitive environment for businesses.

With the UAE continuing to focus on digital transformation strategies, the partnership between key stakeholders will only grow stronger. The establishment of this hyperscale data centre underlines a significant transformation within the region, fostering advancements in AI, cloud computing, and connected technologies.

The ongoing association between Turner & Townsend and du exemplifies the need for strategic partnerships in achieving ambitious goals and deploying world-class solutions in project management.

By investing in infrastructure like the new hyperscale data centre, UAE is not just building a facility but also a framework for future innovations in technology, sustainability, and economic growth. As the digital landscape evolves, engaging in such transformative projects will be crucial for every stakeholder involved.