The spokesman tells GlobeSt.com that Mubadala was looking forspecific real estate expertise to do a joint venture. "JBC is oneof the best US companies," the spokesman says. "It's aboutaccessing that expertise, and earning world-class returns."

The venture will begin by being the lead developer and propertymanager of Abu Dhabi's new CBD on Al Suwa Island. "The Al Suwamixed-use development covers 305 acres and will include Abu Dhabi'snew stock exchange, four international grade A office towers, afive-star business hotel, serviced apartments and retail," thespokesman says. He says he doesn't have specific sf or cost detailson the project.

Kent Swanson, CFO of JBC, tells GlobeSt.com that he can'tcomment too much on the venture. "It's a very exciting opportunityto expand our business platform," he says. "There's major activityout there, and it's great that we can be a part of it."