MEED
Christopher Sell

Qatar real estate market loses its balance

Issue No 23 4-10 June 2010
To avert a long-term depression in the housing market, Doha’s population needs to rise
Hard sell for mall owners

Issue No 22 28 May - 3 June 2010
UAE retailers have been hit hard, with Dubai’s malls particularly affected by the financial crisis, resulting in reduced footfall and a surplus of retail space
Construction projects slow to progress in the UAE

Issue No 18 30 April - 6 May 2010
Despite a slowdown in spending, Abu Dhabi is still a promising market for contractors as mega tourism projects get under way
Grand Egyptian Museum project moves forward

Issue No 15 9-15 April 2010
Given the importance of tourism to Egypt’s economy, progress on the Grand Egyptian Museum scheme cannot come too soon for Cairo
MEED 100 Sector analysis: Conglomerates

Issue No 14 2-8 April 2010
The rankings for the mega-firms are largely unchanged this year and sentiment is improving
MEED 100 Sector analysis: Food

Issue No 14 2-8 April 2010
Kuwait Food Company makes it to the MEED 100, previously dominated by Almarai and Savola
MEED 100 Sector analysis: Real Estate

Issue No 14 2-8 April 2010
Mixed fortunes for developers as slowdown in the real estate sector continues to weigh in on profits
Alcoa revives aluminium project in Saudi Arabia

Issue No 12 19-25 March 2010
With the Ras al-Zour aluminium project back on track, the kingdom is well positioned to become a world-class aluminium producer
Almabani General Contractors

Issue No 12 19-25 March 2010
The Saudi Arabian firm is focusing on its home market this year to increase revenues
Almabani General Contractors: MEED Assessment

Issue No 12 19-25 March 2010
Work shows no sign of drying up as Saudi government announces a record budget for 2010
Q&A: Joseph Daher, Executive Vice-President, Almabani General Contractors

Issue No 12 19-25 March 2010
New Competition in Saudi is not a threat to companies established in the market
Rail schemes progress slowly in Kuwait

Issue No 12 19-25 March 2010
Moves are afoot in Kuwait to bring the GCC railway scheme and the Kuwait City Metro to tender stage, but progress is slow and some are sceptical that the metro will be built at all
George Efstathiou

Issue No 7 12-18 February 2010
One of Saudi Arabia’s planners and designers of the built environment
Jacob Kurek

Issue No 7 12-18 February 2010
One of Saudi Arabia’s leading planners and designers of the built environment
Saudi Arabia architects

Issue No 7 12-18 February 2010
Six of the kingdom’s leading planners and designers of the built environment are: Basem al-Shihabi, Zuhair Hamed Fayez, Tariq Hajj, Tarek al-Shawaf, George Efstathiou and Jacob Kurek
Tarek al-Shawaf

Issue No 7 12-18 February 2010
One of Saudi Arabia’s leading planners and designers of the built environment
Tariq Hajj

Issue No 7 12-18 February 2010
One of Saudi Arabia’s leading planners and designers of the built environment
Zuhair Hamed Fayez

Issue No 7 12-18 February 2010
One of Saudi Arabia’s leading planners and designers of the built environment
Gulf awaits contract awards

Issue No 5 29 January - 4 February 2010
The Gulf has a two-tier construction market and contractors should switch their focus to the stream of awards about to be made elsewhere in the region
Hoteliers predict steady growth in Saudi Arabia

Issue No 4 22-28 January 2009
International hotel developers are tapping into the kingdom’s booming tourist trade, which continues to be buoyed by pilgrims, business travellers and economic growth
Burj tower the new commercial heart of Dubai

31 December 2009, 10:00 GMT
The Burj Dubai is the anchor project in what is expected to become a commercial centre for the emirate
Dubai fallout threatens recovery in construction sector

Issue No 50 11-17 December 2009
The regional construction sector’s hopes of staging a recovery in 2010 could be dashed if Dubai fails to meet its commitments to domestic and international finance houses on time
Housing developers focus on affordability in Abu Dhabi

Issue No 50 11-17 December 2009
Abu Dhabi is addressing the emirate’s housing shortage by promoting policies that place the provision of low-cost accommodation at the heart of future real estate developments
Firms struggle to hit Saudi employment targets

Issue No 41 9-15 October 2009
Even with a relaxation of the rules on employing Saudi nationals, construction and engineering firms in the kingdom are finding it difficult to meet their quotas
Contractors face up to a new reality in Saudi Arabia

13 March 2009, 18:03 GMT
While the kingdom is expected to provide a source of work for construction firms despite the slowdown elsewhere in the Gulf, the lower profits margins available from retendered projects are causing concern.
Saudi housing demand set to increase pressure

13 March 2009, 15:50 GMT
A planned mortgage law will be crucial in helping the kingdom meet its predicted rapid growth in demand for homes.
Riyadh backs industrial plans

13 March 2009, 11:26 GMT
Despite the global economic downturn, Riyadh is committed to its programme to expand the sector.
Al-Arrab Contracting Company

13 March 2009, 0:00 GMT
Director Samer Arafa explains how the company is stepping up its international expansion plans.
Saudi Arabia's Economic Cities programme faces defining year

1 March 2009, 8:31 GMT
The viability of Riyadh’s plan to build six economic cities is increasingly being questioned as countries around the world enter recession and the global downturn reduces the availability of foreign finance.
Firms line up for Saudi National Guard work

1 March 2009, 7:57 GMT
The National Guard has prequalified eight local and international firms for a housing project involving the construction of 17,000 housing units in the kingdom.
Beijing Construction submits low bid for Saudi hospital contract

1 March 2009, 6:43 GMT
Far East firm enters price of $800m for King Khaled University buildings.
Joint ventures form to bid for Riyadh monorail

1 March 2009, 6:35 GMT
Local contractors are forming joint ventures with international transport specialists to compete for the contract to build a monorail at Princess Noura bint Abdulrahman University for Women in Riyadh.
Arriyadh Development Authority to award Riyadh tunnel by April

25 February 2009, 12:25 GMT
The Arriyadh Development Authority (ADA) is set to award the SR2bn ($533m) contract for road tunnels under an airbase in Riyadh by April.
Royal Commission issues groundworks tender

25 February 2009, 8:31 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued a construction tender for ground and landscaping works at two districts at Jubail on the Gulf coast.
Modon to award district cooling contract in March

25 February 2009, 7:14 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s industrial development agency, Modon, is expected to award the multi-million riyal district cooling contract for Jeddah Industrial City 2 in mid-March.
Modon holds talks for first phase of Sudair Industrial City

24 February 2009, 13:44 GMT
Modon, Saudi Arabia’s industrial development agency, is to issue a request for proposals for the first stage of Sudair Industrial City within the next two weeks.
Subiya expressway contract award due in March

24 February 2009, 10:45 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Works Ministry is set to award the KD41.3m ($151m) Subiya expressway contract to the local United Gulf Construction Company (UGCC) in March.
Construction starts at Princess Noura University in Riyadh

24 February 2009, 7:38 GMT
Work has started on the construction of the new Princess Noura bint Abdulrahman University for Women in Riyadh.
Award for Saudi rehabilitation centres due in mid March

23 February 2009, 14:33 GMT
An award for a SR12.7bn ($3.4bn) network of rehabilitation centres around Saudi Arabia is expected to be made in mid-March.
Riyadh Municipality issues tender for car museum

23 February 2009, 12:55 GMT
Riyadh Municipality has issued a tender for the construction of a vintage car museum in the Saudi capital.
Royal Commission extends bid deadline for Yanbu college for second time

23 February 2009, 12:51 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has extended the bid deadline for the construction of the first phase of the men’s campus at Yanbu University College for the second time.
Saudi Arabia to develop sports city

22 February 2009, 13:36 GMT
Saudi Arabia is to develop a SR15bn ($4bn) sports city complex in Jeddah following approval for the design by King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz al-Saud.
US firm lands Khobar hotel contract

22 February 2009, 13:03 GMT
The US interior design firm J/Brice Design International has been awarded the fit-out contract for the SR1bn ($300m) Al-Khobar Hotel & Office towers project in Khobar, Saudi Arabia.
Saudi universities receive construction bids worth $1bn

22 February 2009, 8:04 GMT
Two major construction contracts at Hail and Taibah universities in Saudi Arabia have attracted low bids worth a total of almost SR4bn ($1bn).
Royal Commission extends substation tender deadline

22 February 2009, 7:47 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has extended the bid deadline for the construction of a substation at Jubail Industrial City by four weeks.
Progress on Saudi economic city slows

22 February 2009, 6:46 GMT
Fresh doubts have been raised over progress at Prince Abdulaziz bin Mosaed Economic City, with several companies involved saying the project is slowing down.
Ministry to retender Kuwait hospital contract in bid to cut costs

22 February 2009, 6:17 GMT
Bidding to be reopened for Jaber al-Ahmed al-Sabah hospital, despite Central Tenders Committee approving plans.
Royal Commission issues Jubail landscaping tender

19 February 2009, 13:00 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued a construction tender for landscaping work at Jubail Industrial City.
King Faisal University issues two construction tenders

19 February 2009, 8:33 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s King Faisal University has issued two tenders for construction work at its Dammam campus in the Eastern Province.
Binladin begins work at King Saud University

19 February 2009, 7:33 GMT
Construction work has begun on the women’s college at King Saud University in Riyadh, following the award of the SR8.8bn ($2.4bn) contract to the local Saudi Binladin Group in December.
Saudi Higher Education Ministry issues three housing tenders

18 February 2009, 15:15 GMT
Three further tenders for staff housing schemes have been issued by Saudi Arabia’s Higher Education Ministry.
Kharafi tipped to land Wafra Mall project in Kuwait

18 February 2009, 14:31 GMT
The local Mohammed Abdulmohsin al-Kharafi & Sons has been tipped to land the Wafra Mall construction contract, after submitting the low-bid for the estimated KD15m ($52m) scheme.
King Abdulaziz University housing project award due in March

18 February 2009, 14:15 GMT
An award for a major housing contract at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, is expected by the beginning of March.
Al-Latifia submits low bid for Aramco office project

17 February 2009, 13:24 GMT
The local Al-Latifia Trading & Contracting has submitted the lowest bid for a new Saudi Aramco office building, with a price of SR720m ($192m).
Bids due for fourth phase of Riyadh redevelopment project

17 February 2009, 10:48 GMT
Bids are to be submitted in the coming weeks for the fourth phase of the re-development of the Addiriyah area in Riyadh.
Bids submitted for King Fahd University housing units

17 February 2009, 8:28 GMT
The local International Centre for Commerce & Contracting has submitted a low-bid of SR186m ($50m) for the construction of 100 villas at King Fahd University for Petroleum & Minerals.
Kuwait agriculture authority issues warehouse tender

16 February 2009, 13:01 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Authority for Agriculture & Fish Resources (PAAF) has issued a tender for the construction of eight warehouses in the Ardiya district of the country.
King Faisal University prequalifies firms for housing project

16 February 2009, 11:59 GMT
At least five contractors have been prequalified by King Faisal University for the construction of staff housing units.
Al-Rashid signs SR1.6bn contract for King Saud University

16 February 2009, 6:36 GMT
The local Al-Rashid Trading & Contracting Company has signed a SR1.6bn ($427m) contract for a housing project at King Saud University.
Jubail recreational project set for completion end of 2009

15 February 2009, 12:48 GMT
Work is due for completion by the end of 2009 for the construction of a new recreational facility at Jubail Industrial City.
Local contractor submits low bid for Kuwait oil headquarters

15 February 2009, 10:33 GMT
Kuwait’s Abdulrahman al-Bahar & Sons Company has submitted the low-bid for the Kuwait Gulf Oil Company (KGOC) office building in the Ahmadi district.
Marubeni to win pumping station work

15 February 2009, 8:59 GMT
The joint venture of Kuwait’s Combined Group and Japan’s Marubeni Corporation is in line to win the contract to build pumping stations at Al-Zour and Mina Abdullah, after submitting the lowest bid for the work, at KD71m ($243m).
Saudi Finance Ministry seeks bids for Mecca work

15 February 2009, 8:26 GMT
The Finance Ministry is inviting bids for the contract to build an administration compound on the outskirts of Mecca.
Riyadh to invite proposals for $2bn towers scheme

15 February 2009, 8:19 GMT
Public Pensions Agency seeks designs for King Abdullah Financial District.
Noor qualifies eight firms for Cedar island

15 February 2009, 7:54 GMT
Beirut-based developer Noor Holding has prequalified up to eight international dredging contractors to carry out the first phase of construction on its Cedar island project, pending approval from the government.
Four firms vie to build King Abdulaziz cultural centre

15 February 2009, 7:40 GMT
Four firms are to bid for the SR1.5bn ($400m) contract to build the King Abdulaziz Centre for Knowledge & Culture in the Eastern Province, which will house the kingdom’s first public cinema.
Kuwait tender committee approves Combined Group low-bid

15 February 2009, 7:17 GMT
Kuwait’s Central Tenders Committee (CTC) has approved the low-bid of KD8.6m ($32m) by the local Combined Group for the Jamal Abdul Nasser road contract.
Emaar reports fourth quarter profit of $1.4m

12 February 2009, 13:59 GMT
UAE-based developer Emaar Properties made a profit of just AED5m ($1.4m) in the fourth quarter of 2008, according to its latest set of results.
Royal Commission extends water towers tender

12 February 2009, 11:10 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has extended the bid deadline for the construction of two water towers at Yanbu for the third time.
Tender issued for Jubail construction work

12 February 2009, 10:21 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued a construction tender for site development work at Jubail 2.
First phase of Jubail 2 to be completed in April

12 February 2009, 8:14 GMT
The first phase infrastructure work for Jubail 2, on the Gulf coast of Saudi Arabia, is expected to be completed by April, according to the project manager.
Riyadh to develop media city

11 February 2009, 14:08 GMT
A new multi-billion riyal development aimed at media companies is to be developed in Riyadh.
Kuwait approves Kharafi bid for sewer network

11 February 2009, 7:50 GMT
Kuwait's Central Tenders Committee (CTC) has approved the low-bid of KD15.3m ($52m) by the local Mohammed Abdulmohsin al-Kharafi & Sons for work to upgrade the sewer network in the Sabah al-Salem suburb.
Al-Jaber lands $1.6bn Masdar infrastructure contract

10 February 2009, 13:35 GMT
The UAE’s Al-Jaber Group has been awarded the first phase infrastructure contract for Abu Dhabi’s low-carbon project Masdar Development, valued up to AED6bn ($1.6bn).
Oman's Al-Raseed submits low-bid for road contract

10 February 2009, 8:34 GMT
Oman’s Al-Raseed Trading & Contracting Company has submitted the low-bid for a road infrastructure contract in the sultanate.
Kuwait's higher education authority issues building tender

10 February 2009, 8:07 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Authority for Applied Education & Training has invited a number of local contractors to bid for a KD50m ($172m) university scheme.
Nakheel makes further redundancies

9 February 2009, 13:33 GMT
The UAE’s Nakheel has made a further series of redundancies, as the global economic crisis continues to place pressure on one of the region’s biggest developers.
Payment delays hit 86 per cent of contractors

9 February 2009, 12:46 GMT
Delayed payments for completed work is now affecting 86 per cent of contractors working in the GCC region, according to a survey of industry professionals.
Modon signs deal for Saudi technology park

9 February 2009, 12:43 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s industrial development agency, Modon, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Al-Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University to establish a science and technology zone in the university.
Survey reveals Saudi Arabia as most promising construction market for 2009

9 February 2009, 12:41 GMT
Saudi Arabia presents the greatest opportunity for contractors in the coming year, according to a survey of industry professionals at MEED’s Arabian World Construction Summit (AWCS) 2009 in Abu Dhabi.
Local Saudi firms bid low for university deal

8 February 2009, 12:07 GMT
Group of Al-Arrab and Rabia is front runner for major housing contract at King Abdulaziz University.
Al-Latifia to build Gosi head office

8 February 2009, 11:37 GMT
Riyadh-based Al-Latifia Trading & Contracting has been awarded a SR1.5bn ($401m) contract for the construction of a headquarters complex for the local General Organisation for Social Insurance (Gosi), in Riyadh.
Sultanate of Oman prequalifies international contractors for government Majlis

8 February 2009, 11:12 GMT
The Sultanate of Oman has prequalified six local and international contractors for the construction of a AED700m ($191) government Majlis (parliament) in Muscat.
Riyadh awards site supervision contracts for Financial District

8 February 2009, 10:51 GMT
The Public Pensions Agency (PPA) has awarded three site supervision contracts for building projects within King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) in Riyadh.
Al-Rashid and Eads win Saudi border fence deal

8 February 2009, 10:29 GMT
The local/ German consortium of Al-Rashid Trading & Contracting Company and the European Aeronautic Defence & Space Company (Eads) has received official confirmation from Saudi Arabia’s Interior Ministry on the award for the second phase of the kingdom’s border security fence project.
UK's Aedas low-bids for Bahrain consultancy work

8 February 2009, 9:03 GMT
The UK’s Aedas has submitted the low-bid of BD2.23m ($6m) for a consultancy contract in Bahrain covering the design and supervision of a proposed academic building in the capital, Manama.
Saudi Arabia's real estate projects should be led by demand

8 February 2009, 8:16 GMT
Saudi Arabia is showing signs of retrenchment, with one of its most high-profile schemes, Kingdom Tower, now on hold.
Jeddah's 'mile high' tower put on hold

8 February 2009, 7:04 GMT
Kingdom Holding's decision to delay Kingdom Tower skyscraper follows losses of $8.3bn in fourth quarter of 2008.
Al-Kharafi bids low for Kuwait municipality building

5 February 2009, 12:42 GMT
The local Mohammed Abdulmoshin al-Kharafi & Sons Company has submitted the low bid for a new municipality building in Kuwait.
Kuwait approves low bid for giant hospital

5 February 2009, 11:52 GMT
Kuwait’s Central Tenders Committee has approved the lowest bid for the construction of the 1,050 bed Jaber al-Ahmed al-Sabah hospital, allowing the project to go ahead.
Modon to establish energy city in Dammam

5 February 2009, 11:18 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s industrial development agency Modon is to establish a SR5bn ($1.3bn) energy service city in Dammam.
Contractors gain extension to university monorail tender

4 February 2009, 15:40 GMT
The bid deadline for the fourth package of the Princess Noura bint Abdulrahman University for Women is set to be extended by one month to the end of March.
Azmeel wins $150m Ras al-Zour villa contract

4 February 2009, 12:50 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s Azmeel Contracting Company has been awarded a SR562m ($150m) contract for the construction of the first phase of the residential village at the Ras al-Zour industrial complex being developed by Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Maaden).
Tenders committee approves Combined bid for water and road systems

4 February 2009, 12:01 GMT
Kuwait’s Central Tenders Committee (CTC) has approved the KD13.7m ($47m) bid for the first-phase contract to build rainwater and wastewater drain networks and roads in the Abu Futaira district in the east of Kuwait.
Design for Capital Markets Authority tower to be finalised this year

3 February 2009, 14:02 GMT
Design work on the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) tower in Riyadh is set for completion by the end of 2009.
Bid deadline for King Khaled University contract to be extended

3 February 2009, 12:01 GMT
The bid deadline for a major construction contract at King Khaled University in Abha is set to be extended by a further two months to mid April.
Kuwait prequalifies firms for water tower work

3 February 2009, 10:43 GMT
At least four local firms have been prequalified for a contract to construct six water towers in the Jahra district of Kuwait.
First phase of Asian Games site complete

2 February 2009, 12:30 GMT
Construction of the first phase of the 2nd Asian Beach Games site in Oman has been completed, according to the local developer Omran.
Bids submitted for King Abdulaziz Airport earthworks contract

2 February 2009, 10:10 GMT
Nine local and international firms have submitted bids for an estimated SR375m ($100m) earthworks contract at King Abdulaziz International airport, in Jeddah.
Al-Dar submits low bids for Kuwait drainage work

2 February 2009, 6:45 GMT
The local Al-Dar Engineering & Construction Company has submitted the low bid for infrastructure work at three sites in Kuwait.
Royal Commission extends Yanbu University deadline

1 February 2009, 12:56 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu (RCJY) has extended the bid deadline for the construction of the first phase of the men’s campus at Yanbu University College.
Nakheel to deliver Waterfront 1,000 homes by end of 2009

1 February 2009, 11:29 GMT
The UAE-based developer Nakheel is to release over 1,000 homes in Dubai Waterfront by the end of 2009.
Arriyadh reopens talks with Almabani over fee for tunnels

1 February 2009, 9:22 GMT
Progress on a SR2bn ($533m) project to construct road tunnels under an airbase in Riyadh has stalled as the client, the Arriyadh Development Authority (ADA), seeks to renegotiate with the low-bidder over the fee.
Dubai Maritime City signs agreement with Arab Sea Ports Federation

1 February 2009, 8:07 GMT
Dubai Maritime City (DMC) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Egypt-based Arab Sea Ports Federation.
Riyadh awards deals worth $8bn at women's university

1 February 2009, 7:22 GMT
Three contracts valued at more than SR30bn ($8bn) in total have been awarded by the Finance Ministry to local contractors for the new women’s college in Riyadh, Princess Noura bint Abdulrahman University for Women.
Al-Rajhi Alliance in line for first Mecca-Medina rail deal

30 January 2009, 14:12 GMT
The Al-Rajhi Alliance was expected to be named as the winner of the first construction contract on the Haramain high-speed rail project between Mecca and Medina, as MEED went to press, after submitting the lowest bid of SR6.9bn ($1.8bn).
Kuwait extends bids for Mina Abdullah station for third time

29 January 2009, 11:39 GMT
Kuwait's Electricity & Water Ministry has extended the bid deadline for the pumping station at Mina Abdullah for a third time.
Global Competitiveness Forum issues recommendations to resolve economic crisis

29 January 2009, 10:44 GMT
The Global Competitiveness Forum has ended in Riyadh by drafting an open letter to the G20 group of industrial economies on how to resolve the current economic crisis.
Saudi Royal Commission extends bid deadline for Yanbu sewers

29 January 2009, 6:09 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has extended the bid deadline for a sewer expansion project at Yanbu.
Kuwait's Agility buys Nordic firm

28 January 2009, 14:50 GMT
Kuwait-based logistics firm Agility is to strengthen its presence in northern Europe, following the acquisition of the Finnish firm Oy Nystrom & Company.
UK architect lays off staff in Dubai office

28 January 2009, 13:27 GMT
The UK-based architect’s firm RMJM has been forced into making a new raft of redundancies and pay cuts in the wake of the deepening recession affecting the region's construction sector.
Saudi firms set up real estate finance company

28 January 2009, 8:28 GMT
Two Saudi finance corporations have established a new real estate finance company with SR1bn ($267m) in capital.
IMF predicts Syrian economy to grow by 5 per cent

27 January 2009, 13:58 GMT
Syria’s economy performed strongly in 2008, according to the latest report by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), with overall growth expected to be about 5 per cent.
Almabani begins construction work at Najran airport

27 January 2009, 11:36 GMT
The local Almabani General Contractors has begun work on the main construction package at Najran airport, in the southwest of Saudi Arabia, following completion of the mobilisation work.
Deadline for Yanbu waterfront development delayed for second time

27 January 2009, 6:26 GMT
The Saudi Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has extended for a second time the bid deadline for the site development for phase three of the Waterfront development at Yanbu.
Bids for Riyadh university monorail due in February

26 January 2009, 13:38 GMT
Bids for the SR1bn ($267m) monorail contract at the University for Women in Riyadh are expected to be submitted by the end of February.
Hail Economic City masterplan to be awarded within weeks

26 January 2009, 11:25 GMT
The masterplan contract for Hail Economic City is expected to awarded within weeks.
Royal Commission extends deadline for Yanbu medical centre

26 January 2009, 6:00 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has extended the bid deadline for expansion of the medical centre at Yanbu by two months.
Tenders issued for Oman airports consultancy contract

25 January 2009, 13:02 GMT
Firms have been invited to bid by 2 March for a contract to provide design and construction supervision services at Muscat and Salalah airports.
Kuwait real estate in decline

25 January 2009, 12:46 GMT
Sales in Kuwait’s real estate market declined by 17.5 per cent in December 2008, and 45.6 per cent compared to the same period in 2007, according to the latest economic brief by the National Bank of Kuwait (NBK).
Contractors suffer as project activity slows amid crisis

25 January 2009, 11:26 GMT
Fears mount for future of firms as the number of awards plummets.
Royal Commission extends water tower deadline

25 January 2009, 10:32 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has extended the bid deadline for the construction of two water towers at Yanbu for the second time.
Consultants vie to reshape Kuwait

25 January 2009, 6:25 GMT
Municipality invites international firms to bid for three contracts to draw up development masterplans.
Saudi developer to float Mecca project on stock market

22 January 2009, 12:30 GMT
The project company behind the SR21bn ($5.6bn) Tareeq al-Mawazee development in Mecca is expected to list its shares on the Saudi stock exchange (Tadawul) by the end of 2009.
Three bids expected for Farwania road contract in Kuwait

22 January 2009, 11:19 GMT
Bids are to be submitted on 25 January for a road maintenance contract in the Farwania area of Kuwait.
Kuwait Gulf Oil Company delays bids for Ahmadi headquarters

22 January 2009, 10:56 GMT
The Kuwait Gulf Oil Company (KGOC) has extended the deadline for bids to construct a new office building in the Ahmadi district, in the south of the country.
Royal Commission delays bid deadline for air force contract

22 January 2009, 7:22 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has extended the bid deadline for the construction and site development of buildings for the Royal Saudi Air Defence at Jubail Industrial City.
Emaar explores investment opportunities in Mecca

21 January 2009, 14:20 GMT
Emaar, the Economic City has met real estate developers from Mecca to discuss investment opportunities in the holy city and in King Abdullah Economic City.
Kuwait prequalifies firms for road project

21 January 2009, 13:19 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Works Ministry has prequalified 12 local and international firms for a road project in the state.
Finance Ministry to award Riyadh university contracts

20 January 2009, 12:48 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s Finance Ministry is set to award three key university contracts by the end of January.
Kuwait extends deadline for Mina Abdullah pumping station

20 January 2009, 11:17 GMT
Kuwait’s Electricity & Water Ministry has extended the deadline for bids for the pumping station at Mina Abdullah.
Kuwait housing authority issues tender for Sabah al-Ahmed township

20 January 2009, 8:10 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Authority for Housing Care has prequalified 30 local and international contractors for a road and infrastructure services contract in Sabah al-Ahmed township.
Al-Mazaya healthcare clinic to be complete by end of 2009

19 January 2009, 10:41 GMT
The local Al-Mazaya Real Estate Development Company says construction of its healthcare clinic in Kuwait will be complete by the end of 2009.
Wilbur Smith Associates awarded Jubail masterplan contract

19 January 2009, 6:52 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has awarded the US-based Wilbur Smith Associates a SR12m ($3m) architectural engineering services contract.
Bid deadline for Saudi National Guard housing scheme extended

19 January 2009, 6:13 GMT
The deadline for bids for a major housing project for the Saudi Arabian National Guard has been extended by a month to 16 February.
Al-Rashid to build King Saud University campus residences

19 January 2009, 5:33 GMT
The local Al-Rashid Trading & Contracting Company has won the SR1.6bn ($427m) contract to build residences for academic staff at King Saud University in Riyadh.
Tamdeen mall scheme suffers delay

18 January 2009, 12:39 GMT
The KD100m ($350m) Mall of Kuwait project is on hold as the developer, the local Tamdeen Shopping Centre Development Company, awaits regulatory approval of its design.
ACC to secure Saudi substation contract

18 January 2009, 12:09 GMT
Najen al-Jazeera, a subsidiary of the Riyadh-based Al-Arrab Contracting Company (ACC), is set to be awarded the SR74m ($20m) Hail University substation contract.
King Abdullah Economic City sea port design finalised

18 January 2009, 8:24 GMT
Emaar, The Economic City (Emaar. E.C.) has released the finalised design for the sea port to be located in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC).
Kuwait's Wafra Real Estate issues construction tender

18 January 2009, 7:21 GMT
Kuwait-based Wafra Real Estate has invited companies to bid by 28 January for a contract to build a 25-storey building in Kuwait City.
Annual investment in Saudi industrial cities reaches $6.5bn

15 January 2009, 10:47 GMT
Modon, the industrial development arm of the Saudi government, says it attracted an estimated SR24bn ($6.5bn) in capital investment in its industrial zones in the past year.
Bid deadline for Yanbu substation extended

15 January 2009, 8:40 GMT
The bid deadline for the new substation at King Fahd Industrial Port in Saudi Arabia has been extended by almost three weeks to 9 February.
Four bids submitted for Al-Yabes towers in Riyadh

15 January 2009, 7:18 GMT
Four local contractors have submitted bids for a SR1bn ($237m) tower project planned by the local Al-Yabes Real Estate Company in Riyadh.
Bids for King Khaled University delayed until February

14 January 2009, 12:33 GMT
Bids are due to be submitted for a SR5bn ($1.3bn) contract for King Khaled University on 15 February.
Royal Commission issues tender for Yanbu highway

14 January 2009, 7:22 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued its latest tender for infrastructure work in Yanbu.
Kuwait Gulf Oil Company issues tender for headquarters

14 January 2009, 6:25 GMT
Kuwait Gulf Oil Company (KGOC) has issued a tender for the construction of an office building in the Ahmadi district in the south of the country.
Royal Commission issues tender for Yanbu university

13 January 2009, 7:41 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued a tender for the construction of the first phase of the men’s campus at Yanbu University College.
Al-Khabeer signs finance deal for Jizan Economic City

13 January 2009, 7:25 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s Al-Khabeer Merchant Finance Corporation has signed a memorandum of understanding with the local Jazan Development Company for the financing of projects in Jizan Economic City.
Sama Dubai shelves Dubai Towers Jeddah in wake of slowdown

11 January 2009, 8:45 GMT
The SR2bn ($534m) Dubai Towers Jeddah project has been put on hold as the developer, Sama Dubai, continues to rein in its development plans in the wake of the global economic downturn.
Riyadh awards Al-Rashid consortium $2.5bn border fence contract

11 January 2009, 7:36 GMT
Security contract is expected to be worth $2.6bn and take three years to complete.
Riyadh fails on low-cost housing

11 January 2009, 7:26 GMT
With Saudi developers concentrating on luxury villas, demand for cheaper accommodation is soaring.
Limitless to complete groundworks on Al-Wasl development in February

8 January 2009, 10:48 GMT
Earthworks on the first phase of the SR45bn ($12bn) Al-Wasl development in Saudi Arabia are nearing completion, with ground levelling and clearance work expected to be complete by the beginning of February.
Royal Commission issues infrastructure tender for Jubail 2

8 January 2009, 6:40 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued a tender for infrastructure work at Jubail 2 in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Freyssinet wins economic city school contract

7 January 2009, 10:32 GMT
Saudi Freyssinet has been awarded a SR120m ($32m) design and build contract at King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC).
Kuwait issues tender for Shuwaikh university campus

7 January 2009, 5:33 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Authority for Private Education has issued a tender for the construction of a university building at the Shuwaikh campus.
United Gulf Construction to take Subiya expressway contract

6 January 2009, 12:48 GMT
Kuwait’s Central Tenders Committee has approved the KD41.3m ($151m) bid by the local United Gulf Construction Company for the third phase of the Jahra-Subiya expressway, paving the way for a contract award next month.
Master Civil Construction awarded $120m Ajman contract

6 January 2009, 10:34 GMT
The UAE-based contractor Master Civil Construction Company has been awarded a AED450m ($123m) contract for the construction of three towers within Ajman’s Rainbow Towers project.
Depa wins defence ministry contract in Saudi Arabia

5 January 2009, 11:31 GMT
The UAE-based interior design firm Depa has been awarded a SR30m ($8m) renovation contract for a ministry building in Jeddah.
Sagia: Oil price drop will not hinder Saudi development

5 January 2009, 10:30 GMT
A declining oil price will have little impact on development plans for Saudi Arabia this year, according to a senior executive at the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (Sagia).
Royal Commission extends Yanbu water tower tender

4 January 2009, 10:36 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has extended the tender deadline for the construction of two water towers at Yanbu.
Kingdom offers some hope for real estate

2 January 2009, 9:31 GMT
What is emerging is a crash of spectacular proportions in Dubai. Saudi Arabia is still in far healthier shape than the UAE market.
Kuwait logistics firm signs agreement with Japan's Kintetsu

31 December 2008, 12:48 GMT
The Kuwait Transcontinental Shipping Company (KTS) has signed a global freight forwarding agreement with Japan’s Kintetsu World Express.
Modon signs five contracts for second industrial city in Dammam

31 December 2008, 7:52 GMT
Modon, Saudi Arabia’s industrial development arm has signed five contracts valued at SR420m ($112m) for the development of industrial sites within Dammam’s second industrial city.
Contract award for Hail Economic City delayed

30 December 2008, 12:59 GMT
A consultant to draw up the masterplan for Hail Economic City is now set to be appointed in the first quarter of 2009, several months later than expected.
Royal Commission extends Yanbu Waterfront deadline

30 December 2008, 11:03 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has extended the bid deadline for the site development for phase three of the Waterfront development at Yanbu.
Emaar The Economic City awards villa contract to Al-Redwan

29 December 2008, 13:33 GMT
Emaar The Economic City has awarded the local Al-Redwan Trading & Contracting a SR325m ($88m) contract for the construction of 134 villas in King Abdullah Economic City.
Dubai-based Depa wins Sentosa Island fit-out contract

29 December 2008, 12:42 GMT
DDS Contracts & Interior Solutions, a joint venture of the Dubai-based interior design contractor Depa and Singapore-based Design Studio, has been awarded a AED118m ($32m) fit-out contract for an entertainment venue at the Singapore leisure resort, Sentosa Island.
Qatar's Ezdan Contracting secures financing for expansion

24 December 2008, 8:03 GMT
Doha-based Ezdan Contracting Company has secured a financing deal worth QR324 ($89m) with Qatar’s Al-Yusr Islamic Bank
Saudi Arabia: Sewer expansion

24 December 2008, 7:13 GMT
Procurement and construction of expansion and improvement of sanitary sewer system at Yanbu. Closing date: 31 March 2009.
First homes in King Abdullah Economic City to be handed over in early 2009

24 December 2008, 6:37 GMT
The first residential units in King Abdullah Economic City are to be handed over in the first quarter of 2009.
Tower designs for Riyadh financial district to be selected in January

23 December 2008, 11:37 GMT
Riyadh is to award design contracts for a number of buildings at King Abdullah Financial District in January 2009.
Saudi firm sets up industrial company in Egypt

23 December 2008, 11:32 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s Construction Product Holding Company (CPC) has established a new industrial company in Egypt, with an investment of $120m.
Qatar: Development of roads in Bani Hajer

23 December 2008, 9:41 GMT
Development of roads in Bani Hajer, Zone 51. Deadline for bids:13 January 2009.
Modon signs up Jurong to develop masterplan for Sudair Industrial City

22 December 2008, 13:29 GMT
Modon, the Saudi Arabian industrial development agency, has signed an agreement with Singapore-based Jurong International to carry out the detailed masterplan for the first phase of the $40bn Sudair Industrial City.
Qatar: Construction of Islamic Centre

22 December 2008, 13:24 GMT
Tender for the construction of an Islamic Centre at Ain Khalid. Deadline for bids: 20 January 2009.
Lebanon: University faculty construction

22 December 2008, 13:21 GMT
Construction Works of the Faculties of Engineering and Fine Arts at the Lebanese University Campus in Tripoli, Lebanon.
Parsons Brinckerhoff appointed for Kuwait infrastructure works

22 December 2008, 9:12 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Works Ministry has appointed the US-based Parsons Brinckerhoff to project manage infrastructure upgrade works in the country.
King Abdullah Financial District - Building a financial hub for the Gulf

21 December 2008, 13:43 GMT
As other major projects in the region run in to difficulties, progress is being made on the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh, which will play a key role in diversifying the Saudi economy.
Modon to launch Jeddah industrial city

21 December 2008, 12:23 GMT
Saudi development agency in talks with investors over building factories to employ offenders.
Saudi Oger bids lowest for rehab centres

21 December 2008, 11:43 GMT
Company submitted a price of $3.4bn for contract to build a network of facilities around the kingdom.
Local firms to bid for monorail in Saudi Arabia

21 December 2008, 10:36 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s Finance Ministry is inviting selected local contractors to bid for a SR1bn ($267m) monorail contract at the new women’s university campus in Riyadh.
Lebanon appoints ambassador to Syria

21 December 2008, 8:33 GMT
Lebanon has appointed an ambassador to Syria, signalling the first time the Arab neighbours will have full diplomatic relations since gaining independence from France in 1946.
Tender issued for Riyadh towers

18 December 2008, 14:10 GMT
The Saudi-based Al-Yabes Real Estate company has issued an engineering, procurement and construction tender for a tower project in Riyadh.
Kuwait's Agility secures US logistics contract

18 December 2008, 12:34 GMT
Kuwait-based Agility has secured a logistics contract worth up to $932m, to supply and deliver spare parts for communications and electronics equipment to the US army.
Testing to begin on Saudi north border fence

17 December 2008, 12:08 GMT
Testing is set to begin on the first section of the SR3.4bn ($900m) northern border fence project in Saudi Arabia.
Bid deadline set for Riyadh technology park

17 December 2008, 11:05 GMT
Local contractors are to submit bids for packages valued at over SR5bn ($1.3bn) by 22 February for a technology business park in Riyadh.
Saudi Freyssinet wins Jeddah towers contract

16 December 2008, 11:02 GMT
The local contractor Saudi Freyssinet has been awarded a SR750m ($200m) contract for the Headquarters Business Park in Jeddah.
Bidder requests further extension to King Khaled University deadline

16 December 2008, 7:42 GMT
At least one contractor planning to bid for the SR5bn ($1.3bn) King Khaled University at Abha is to ask the Higher Education Ministry to extend the bid deadline for a third time, to February 2009.
Mushrif Trading & Contracting

16 December 2008, 0:00 GMT
The Kuwait-based Mushrif Trading & Contracting is in a good position for expansion after relocating its headquarters to the UAE.
Burhan International wins Kuwaiti road contract

15 December 2008, 13:30 GMT
Kuwait's Public Works Ministry has awarded the local Burhan International Construction Company a KD3m ($11m) infrastructure contract.
Royal Commission issues tender for Jubail substation

15 December 2008, 11:22 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued a construction tender for a substation at Jubail.
Emal signs $100m smelter contract

14 December 2008, 13:13 GMT
The UAE’s Emal has signed a $100m (AED367m) turnkey contract with French-based equipment supplier ECL and Australia’s Kempe to provide equipment for its aluminium smelter at Taweelah.
Construction on Jeddah project to start in 2009

14 December 2008, 11:17 GMT
Construction on the Singapore-based developer Keppel Land’s SR3bn Jeddah residential project is to begin in the first half of 2009.
Al-Saber hospital in Kuwait faces delays as client seeks to reduce costs

12 December 2008, 13:22 GMT
Firms fear work will be retendered to take advantage of falling materials prices.
Kuwait University to open bidding for faculty design deals

12 December 2008, 13:02 GMT
Kuwait University is pushing ahead with plans for its new campus at Shadidiyah, with bidding for design contracts for the faculties due to start within weeks.
Kuwait: Rehabilition and maintenance for Ministry sites

11 December 2008, 13:30 GMT
Rehabilitation and small construction works for various building sites in Kuwait. Closing date 11 January 2009.
Kuwait issues road maintenance tenders

11 December 2008, 12:26 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Works Ministry has issued three tenders for general improvement works in three of its six governorates.
Conergy wins Saudi solar energy contract

11 December 2008, 10:43 GMT
Saudi Aramco has awarded Conergy Asia-Pacific, a subsidiary of Hamburg-based Conergy, a 2MW solar power plant to be built at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST).
Kuwait Oil Company issues Mina al-Ahmadi marine expansion tender

10 December 2008, 15:45 GMT
Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) has issued a design consultancy tender for marine expansion works.
Firms prepare bids for Kuwait airport terminal

10 December 2008, 14:47 GMT
Bids for the design contract for the second terminal at Kuwait airport are to be submitted on 30 December.
Emaar enters talks with Jafza over industrial zone project

5 December 2008, 18:07 GMT
UAE firm and Kuwaiti consortium vie for King Abdullah Economic City scheme.
Modon plans three further city schemes in Saudi Arabia

5 December 2008, 18:01 GMT
Modon, formerly the Saudi Industrial Property Authority (Sipa), is to launch three further industrial cities in the kingdom.
Damascus faces increased scrutiny

4 December 2008, 15:18 GMT
A more conciliatory approach to Syria from incoming US President Barack Obama will leave Damascus increasingly exposed.
Kuwait issues construction tenders for mosques

4 December 2008, 12:00 GMT
Kuwait’s Awqaf & Islamic Affairs Ministry has issued a raft of tenders for construction work on a number of mosques across the country.
Syria's Al-Assad meets Lebanon's Aoun

4 December 2008, 8:45 GMT
Syria’s troubled relation with its neighbour Lebanon took another step towards reconciliation yesterday when Syrian President Bashar al-Assad met with Lebanon’s prominent Christian politician Michel Aoun.
Saudi Finance Ministry to renegotiate university bids

3 December 2008, 14:15 GMT
Saudi Arabia's Finance Ministry wants the low bidders for the $11.5bn (SR43bn) women’s university in Riyadh to offer a discount.
Washington and Riyadh sign technology agreement

3 December 2008, 13:59 GMT
The US and Saudi Arabia have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to encourage co-operation on science and technology.
Kuwait Municipality issues tender for building

1 December 2008, 13:38 GMT
Kuwait Municipality has issued a tender for construction work for a regional municipality building.
Saudi commission issues Yanbu tender

1 December 2008, 12:43 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued a tender for the expansion of the medical centre at Yanbu.
Saudi Arabia's Modon to offer incentives to foreign and local investors

30 November 2008, 12:41 GMT
Modon, previously known as the Saudi Industrial Property Authority (Sipa) has announced it will offer tax incentives to investors in three industrial cities in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Royal Commission issues pipeline support tender

30 November 2008, 9:41 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued a tender for construction of support facilities for a pipeline corridor at Jubail Industrial city.
Bubiyan seaport tenders to be issued in first half of 2009

28 November 2008, 19:14 GMT
The Public Works Ministry is to issue tenders for the phase two construction packages on the Bubiyan island seaport project in the first half of next year, according to a project source.
Almabani in line for Riyadh airbase road deal

28 November 2008, 18:40 GMT
Local firm submits lowest bid of SR2bn for contract to extend arterial roads in central Riyadh.
Sipa set to finalise Sudair industrial city deal

27 November 2008, 11:34 GMT
Modon, previously known as the Saudi Industrial Property Authority (Sipa), is close to finalising a deal with at least six international investors for its industrial cities.
Al-Ghanim bids low for Kuwait road project

27 November 2008, 9:00 GMT
The Kuwait-based Al-Ghanim International General Trading & Contracting has submitted the low bid for a Kuwait road project.
Qatar's Al-Madar plans Suhail Tower in Dubai

26 November 2008, 14:05 GMT
Qatar’s Al-Madar Investments plans to build the AED1.4bn ($381m) residential Suhail Tower in Dubai Waterfront.
Aecom wins King Abdullah Financial District deal

26 November 2008, 6:44 GMT
The US’ Aecom Technology Corporation has been awarded a SR65m ($17.4m) contract at Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah Financial District.
Saudi Arabia housing shortage set to increase

25 November 2008, 13:04 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s housing shortage is expected to double by 2012 to 1 million units, according to a new report by international real estate advisory firm Jones Lange LaSalle.
Kuwait issues Ashbilia housing tender

25 November 2008, 11:38 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Works Ministry has prequalified 22 local firms for infrastructure work in the Ashbilia area of Kuwait.
Riyadh delays bid deadline for King Khaled University

24 November 2008, 12:31 GMT
The Higher Education Ministry is set to extend the bid deadline for the SR5bn ($1.3bn) King Khaled University contract until January. The original closing date for bids was 29 November, but this was later extended to 14 December. However, according to a contractor considering bidding for the work, it is expected that it will soon be extended again, to 14 January.
Firms submit bids for Jamal Abdul Nasser road contract in Kuwait

24 November 2008, 6:36 GMT
Bids have been submitted for the Jamal Abdul Nasser road contract in Kuwait.
Kuwait-Bahrain joint venture to develop Lusail project

23 November 2008, 10:16 GMT
Bahrain’s Arcapita Bank and Kuwait’s Al-Imtiaz Investment Company have signed a joint venture agreement to develop a $3.5bn golf residential project in Qatar.
Bids in for Subiya expressway

23 November 2008, 8:36 GMT
Kuwait’s United Gulf Construction Company (UGCC) is the low bidder for the third phase of the Jahra-Subiya expressway with a bid of KD41.3m ($151m). Mohammed Abdulhmohsin al-Kharafi & Sons is the second lowest with a bid of $156m. The local Burhan International Construction Company came in third with a bid of $160m.
Interest in Kuwait's Subiya causeway dwindles

21 November 2008, 21:06 GMT
Kuwait to push ahead with project despite the number of bidders being halved and costs doubling.
Jizan set to award Saudi city contracts

21 November 2008, 20:11 GMT
Jizan Economic City is set to award several key contracts in the coming months, in a sign that progress continues to be made on the project despite speculation that the kingdom’s economic city programme could be affected by the global credit crunch.
Adnoc awards housing deal to Mushrif

20 November 2008, 13:28 GMT
Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) has awarded Mushrif Trading & Contracting a AED189m ($51m) infrastructure contract for work at the Ruwais housing complex in Abu Dhabi.
Al-Mabani wins Riyadh runway contract

20 November 2008, 6:39 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s Royal Airforce has awarded the local Al-Mabani General Contractors a SR125m ($33m) construction contract for work at the Riyadh Air Base.
Firms to submit bids for Riyadh airport tunnel

19 November 2008, 6:55 GMT
Bids are to be submitted for the SR3bn ($800m) Riyadh airport tunnel project on 22 November.
Riyadh extends deadline for $3.7bn correctional facility

19 November 2008, 6:32 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s Interior Ministry has extended the bid deadline for its SR14bn ($3.7bn) correctional facility programme by a month.
Kuwait to award $1.2bn hospital contract in 2009

18 November 2008, 8:02 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Works Ministry is set to award a KD319m ($1.2bn) contract for the Jaber al-Ahmed al-Sabah hospital in January.
Semeco wins King Abdullah Economic City work

18 November 2008, 7:32 GMT
Saudi Arabia's Specialised Electro-Mechanical Energy Company (Semeco), a subsidiary of Al-Arrab Contracting Company (ACC), has been awarded a SR68m ($18m) utilities contract for work at King Abdullah Economic City.
Sipa signs up for fourth industrial city at Al-Kharj

14 November 2008, 22:52 GMT
Deal with Commerce & Industry Ministry follows plans to expand existing sites.
Clients return to traditional tender terms

14 November 2008, 22:46 GMT
Clients are returning to former procurement methods as the construction market slows on the back of the global credit crisis. Direct negotiations, partnering agreements and multi-stage tenders are making way for traditional single-stage tendering and fixed-price, lump-sum contracts.
Injaz plans for rising housing demand

14 November 2008, 22:14 GMT
The local Injaz Development Company is planning a second major mixed-use real estate project in the kingdom, with a possible third scheme being considered.
Credit crunch set to reduce impact of Saudi mortgage law

14 November 2008, 22:05 GMT
Global downturn will deter finance houses from lending to home buyers.
Riyadh in danger of overstretching

14 November 2008, 20:44 GMT
Plans for some of the economic cities add to the concerns that Saudi Arabia is taking on too much at once.
Royal commission issues tender for Yanbu geotechnical deal

13 November 2008, 10:47 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued a tender for a geotechnical firm to carry out consultancy work at Yanbu.
Riyadh awards Jubail 2 deal to Saudi Withcon

13 November 2008, 7:56 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has awarded a SR60m ($16m) construction contract to the Saudi Withcon Company.
Damac appoints design supervisor for Riyadh tower

12 November 2008, 14:23 GMT
UAE-based Damac Properties has appointed Lebanon’s Khatib & Alami as architectural and engineering design supervisor for a 45-floor tower in Riyadh.
Sembawang enters joint venture with Dayim al-Haditha

12 November 2008, 6:41 GMT
Singapore-based construction firm Sembawang Engineers & Contractors has entered into a joint venture with the Saudi Arabia-based Dayim al-Haditha.
Saudi commission issues tender for Yanbu water towers

11 November 2008, 13:25 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued a tender for the construction of two water towers at Yanbu.
Saudi authority issues Jeddah water utilities tender

11 November 2008, 9:06 GMT
The Saudi Industrial Property Authority (Sipa) has issued a tender for a SR300m ($80m) build-operate-transfer (BOT) water utilities contract.
Saudi commission issues tender for Jubail labour camp

10 November 2008, 12:16 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued a tender for the construction of a labour camp at Jubail.
Sudair industrial city consortium set to be announced

10 November 2008, 12:06 GMT
A consortium of 10 international and local companies, which will begin development on Sudair industrial city, is to be unveiled in the coming weeks.
UAE's City Cool awarded SR500m Ajmakan contract

9 November 2008, 10:54 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s The Land Holding Real Estate Investment & Development company has awarded the UAE’s City Cool a SR491m ($131m) district cooling contract for the Ajmakan real estate project in Riyadh.
Saudi-based Nesma awarded SR167m economic city contract

9 November 2008, 8:19 GMT
The local Nesma Holding Company has been awarded a SR167m ($45m) infrastructure contract at King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC).
Riyadh to invite technology park bids

7 November 2008, 18:39 GMT
Local construction giants line up for three packages worth $1.3bn to build complex in Nakheel district.
Riyadh to retender light railway

7 November 2008, 18:18 GMT
The Mecca light rail project is likely to be retendered following concerns that the timeframe for the project is unrealistic.
Saudi National Guard invites housing bids

7 November 2008, 18:10 GMT
The Saudi Arabian National Guard is expected to invite bids for a major housing project in the kingdom in January.
King Abdullah Financial District to award infrastructure deals

7 November 2008, 17:47 GMT
Three infrastructure packages for the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh are to be awarded in the coming weeks.
Saudi authority to expand industrial cities

6 November 2008, 13:39 GMT
The Saudi Industrial Property Authority (Sipa) is to expand two of its existing industrial cities.
Riyadh to approve eight high-rise towers

6 November 2008, 13:36 GMT
The Arriyadh Development Authority (ADA) is set to approve the design for at least eight high-rise towers in the centre of Riyadh in the next few weeks.
Saudi Arabia’s Al-Marina masterplan set to be finalised

6 November 2008, 13:33 GMT
The masterplan for the SR10bn ($3bn) Al-Marina development is due to be finalised by the end of 2008.
Construction of Riyadh’s Ajmakan project to begin in 2009

5 November 2008, 17:28 GMT
Construction work on the SR9bn ($2.4bn) Ajmakan real estate project is due to begin in the second quarter of 2009.
Investment in Jizan Economic City reaches $26bn

4 November 2008, 16:05 GMT
Investment in Jizan Economic City has reached SR100bn ($26bn), following the latest set of deals unveiled on 4 November.
Riyadh awards $100m water contract to Al-Muhaidib

4 November 2008, 14:25 GMT
The Saudi Arabian contractor Al-Muhaidib Contracting Company has been awarded a SR375m ($100m) supply and installation project for a water outflow pipe in North Jeddah.
Saudi Binladin wins King Abdullah Economic City road deal

3 November 2008, 16:29 GMT
The Saudi Binladin Group has been awarded a SR239m ($64m) contract for the construction of a north-south coastal road in King Abdullah Economic City.
Saudi Oger to start building Riyadh towers in 2009

3 November 2008, 16:15 GMT
Saudi Oger is to begin construction of four towers in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District in January 2009.
Credit crunch forces Emaar to delay economic city work

31 October 2008, 20:18 GMT
Affordable housing projects on King Abdullah Economic City to be prioritised.
Contractors bid $11.5bn for work at Saudi women’s university

31 October 2008, 20:14 GMT
Construction of college campus to the north of Riyadh will begin in early 2009.
Kuwait Oil Company issue substation tender

30 October 2008, 12:26 GMT
Ten contractor groups, comprising local and international firms have been prequalified for the construction of a substation in West Kuwait.
Saudi commission issues tender for King Fahd port substation

30 October 2008, 7:50 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued a tender for the construction of a substation at King Fahd Industrial Port.
Lulu island masterplan set to be completed in 2009

29 October 2008, 15:27 GMT
The masterplan for the Lulu island development in Abu Dhabi is expected to be completed in six months.
Tenders for construction of Palm Jumeirah hotel to start in 2009

29 October 2008, 15:04 GMT
Tenders for the construction of a AED1.2bn ($327m) hotel and apartment complex planned by Kuwait’s Al-Osaimi Development & Real Estate on Palm Jumeirah in Dubai are expected to be issued in early 2009.
Experts urge UAE to adopt national environmental building standards

28 October 2008, 11:46 GMT
The UAE must ensure a universal environmental building rating system if there is to be a successful environmentally-sustainable construction sector, according to industry experts.
Financial crisis threatens plans for sustainable buildings

28 October 2008, 11:42 GMT
The global financial crisis could threaten the region’s move to a more sustainable approach to building and construction according to Keith Clarke, chief executive officer of the UK’s Atkins.
Commission issues tender for Air Defence headquarters at Jubail

27 October 2008, 13:08 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued a tender for the construction contract for a headquarters building at Jubail Industrial City.
Saudi organisation makes awards for Jizan industrial city

27 October 2008, 12:17 GMT
The Saudi Organisation for Industrial Estates & Technology Zones (SOIETZ), which runs industrial parks across the kingdom, has made a number of awards to contractors for Jizan industrial city.
Kuwait Oil Company invites firms to bid for pipeline contract

26 October 2008, 12:26 GMT
The Kuwait Oil Company has prequalified ten local contractors for the construction of a crude oil flow pipeline.
Saudi's Tadawul closes at record low

26 October 2008, 9:59 GMT
The Saudi stock exchange, the Tadawul recorded its lowest closing point in almost four years yesterday.
Riyadh to launch tower competitions

24 October 2008, 22:19 GMT
Architects will be invited to bid for towers at King Abdullah Financial District within the next month.
Bidding to begin for Hail economic city construction

24 October 2008, 21:57 GMT
Tender plans are sign of progress on project that has struggled to attract interest.
Kuwait missing out on the property boom

24 October 2008, 20:37 GMT
Kuwait is falling behind in the Gulf real estate sector as high land prices and delays in progressing flagship projects deter developers from investing in the country.
Firms to submit bids for Jizan Economic City work

23 October 2008, 13:39 GMT
A number of local contractors have been invited to submit bids for infrastructure work at Jizan Economic City.
Commission awards Jubail housing contract to Azmeel

23 October 2008, 9:50 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has awarded a housing contract worth more than SR200m ($53m) to the local Azmeel Contracting & Construction Corporation.
Arabtec Holding increases profits by 122 per cent

22 October 2008, 15:19 GMT
UAE-based Arabtec Holding has posted a profit increase of 122 per cent for the first nine months of 2008.
Commission awards Jubail 2 earthworks deal to Saad Sahmi al-Hajri

22 October 2008, 14:29 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has awarded an earthworks contract to the local Saad Sahmi al-Hajri & Partner Company For Contracting, valued at more than SR100m ($27m).
Tender for Capital Markets Authority tower in Riyadh to be issued in 2009

21 October 2008, 14:27 GMT
The tender for the first construction package on the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) tower in Riyadh is to be issued in January 2009.
Commission awards Jubail contract to Radicon-Gulf and Kentz Engineering

21 October 2008, 13:34 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has awarded a SR100m ($27m) engineering design contract to a joint venture of the local Radicon-Gulf Consult and UK-based Kentz Engineering International.
Ministry invites bids for Jizan University housing work

20 October 2008, 12:30 GMT
The Higher Education Ministry has invited firms to bid for two construction packages at Jizan University.
Saudi commission issues Yanbu road tender

20 October 2008, 11:33 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu has issued a tender for road improvement works in the industrial city of Yanbu.
Bids submitted for Etisalat's Saudi headquarters

19 October 2008, 10:38 GMT
Eight firms have submitted bids for the administrative headquarters of the UAE-based telecommunications company Etisalat, in Riyadh.
Kuwait Ministry prequalifies firms for girls school

19 October 2008, 10:04 GMT
Kuwait’s Ministry of Public Works has prequalified fifteen firms to bid for the construction, completion and maintenance for a girls’ secondary school.
Riyadh invites bids for air base tunnels

17 October 2008, 19:01 GMT
The Arriyadh Development Authority has invited at least four local contractors to bid by the end of November for a SR3bn ($800m) road project in Riyadh.
Ministry invites firms to bid for King Khaled University work

17 October 2008, 17:09 GMT
The Higher Education Ministry is inviting firms to bid by the end of November for a SR5bn ($1.3bn) contract at King Khaled University in the south of the kingdom.
Riyadh invites firms to bid for King Abdullah Financial District contract

16 October 2008, 15:19 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s Public Pensions Agency (PPA) is inviting consultants to bid for the construction supervision contract at the King Abdullah Financial District in Riyadh.
Kuwait prequalifies 16 firms to bid for school contract

16 October 2008, 15:11 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Works Ministry has prequalified 16 firms to bid for a construction, completion and maintenance contract for a boys' secondary school.
Cayan awards Lamar Towers deal to Saudi Arabian Construction

15 October 2008, 17:57 GMT
The local/Lebanon Saudi Arabian Construction Company has been awarded a SR2bn ($532m) construction contract for Lamar Towers in Jeddah.
Saudi commission issues tender for Jubail apartments

15 October 2008, 15:54 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu has issued a tender for the construction of apartment buildings at Jubail Industrial City.
Tameer invites firms to bid for Al-Louldah project

15 October 2008, 15:34 GMT
The UAE’s Tameer Holding is inviting firms to bid for the infrastructure design consultancy for a new mixed-use project in Saudi Arabia.
Hadeed to develop steel facility in Saudi Arabia

14 October 2008, 14:54 GMT
Saudi Iron & Steel Company (Hadeed) is to develop a new steel production facility in the kingdom, according to Hisham Abdullatif al-Hmili, general manager of steel products, sales and marketing at the firm.
Saudi commission issues tender for Waterfront work at Yanbu

14 October 2008, 14:05 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu has issued a tender for the construction and site development for phase three of the Waterfront development at Yanbu.
Bahrain real estate sales forecast to reach $5bn

13 October 2008, 12:54 GMT
Residential real estate sales in Bahrain could be worth more than BD2bn ($5.3bn) in 2008 if current levels of activity continue, according to a report from international property agent DTZ.
Kingdom Holding goes head to head with Nakheel over world's tallest tower

12 October 2008, 13:48 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s Kingdom Holding has unveiled its two major Jeddah projects, to be called Kingdom City and Kingdom Tower - which it claims will be the world's tallest tower.
Kuwait's Ministry of Electricity & Water issues tender for Doha station

12 October 2008, 12:59 GMT
Seven firms have been prequalified for the design, supply and installation of a distilled water treatment unit at Doha Eastern Power and Water Distillation Station.
Citigroup real estate report states slowdown more likely than collapse

12 October 2008, 12:33 GMT
Dubai’s real estate sector is to experience a slowdown, but avoid an all-out collapse, according to a new report by US-based Citigroup.
Share sale to fund Mecca regeneration

10 October 2008, 20:54 GMT
Developer Dallah al-Baraka seeks to raise $5.6bn for the scheme by selling shares in a new project company.
Riyadh invites interest in $3.7bn rehabilitation project

10 October 2008, 20:00 GMT
The Interior Ministry is inviting firms to bid on a SR14bn ($3.7bn) network of rehabilitation centres for prisoners across the kingdom by 15 November.
Najm al-Jazeera wins $266m Saudi power deal

10 October 2008, 18:58 GMT
The local Najm al-Jazeera Contracting Company, a subsidiary of Al-Arrab Contracting Company, has won a SR1bn ($266m) contract for the construction of a 300MW power plant in Tabuk, in the northwest of the kingdom.
Kuwait invites firms to bid for Mina Abdullah water deal

9 October 2008, 13:04 GMT
Seven groups have been invited to submit bids by 18 November for a construction and maintenance contract for a water distribution complex at Mina Abdullah in Kuwait.
Work on Shams al-Riyadh to begin in 2009

9 October 2008, 12:36 GMT
Construction work on the Shams al-Riyadh project being developed by the local Dar al-Arkan, is expected to begin in March 2009.
Nakheel signs Waterfront partnership deal

8 October 2008, 16:26 GMT
Saudi Arabia's The Land Holding Real Estate & Development Company has signed a memorandum of understanding with the UAE’s Nakheel.
Limitless to develop Saudi waterside project

8 October 2008, 15:58 GMT
The UAE’s Limitless is to expand its Saudi operations with the launch of another multi-billion dollar mixed-use waterside project.
Pressure grows for Saudi mortgage law

7 October 2008, 14:38 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s long-delayed mortgage law remains vital for the development of the kingdom’s real estate market, according to real estate consultant Colliers International.
Sumou Holding to launch real estate investment trust

7 October 2008, 14:34 GMT
Saudi Arabian-based Sumou Holding has signed a deal with Switzerland's Encore to establish Saudi Arabia’s first real estate investment trust (REIT).
Saudi Arabia's Jiwar to launch three firms

6 October 2008, 15:40 GMT
The Saudi-based Jiwar Real Estate Management & Marketing Company is to launch three new companies with a value of SR2.6bn ($691m).
Rawabi Abraj al-Bait construction to start in 2009

6 October 2008, 14:36 GMT
Construction work on the Rawabi Abraj al-Bait project is to begin by March 2009.
Capital Market Authority plans Riyadh tower

6 October 2008, 14:08 GMT
A tall tower is set to be built in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District.
Thirteen firms prequalify for Kuwait airport contract

5 October 2008, 12:02 GMT
Thirteen local firms have prequalified for a construction package at Kuwait Airport.
Emaar and Al-Shoala Group to develop $7bn mixed-use project

5 October 2008, 11:08 GMT
The UAE’s Emaar Properties has established a joint venture with Saudi Arabia’s Al-Shoala Group to develop a mixed-use project in Riyadh.
Kingdom draws up shortlist for women’s college campus

3 October 2008, 18:14 GMT
The Saudi Finance Ministry has prequalified a number of local and international contractors, including Saudi Oger and Saudi Binladin Group, to build a university campus north of Riyadh.
Riyadh faces calls to help economic cities

3 October 2008, 17:24 GMT
Global financial crisis threatens to derail progress on the kingdom’s private-sector developments.
Another district planned for Abdali downtown

28 September 2008, 7:30 GMT
Local developer the Abdali Mall Company is preparing plans for a new mixed-use district at the Abdali downtown project in Amman.
Syrian car blast kills 17

28 September 2008, 7:09 GMT
A car bomb exploded in the Syrian capital Damascus on 27 October, killing 17 and injuring dozens more.
Developers in Saudi call for action on mortgage law

26 September 2008, 18:11 GMT
Firms say delays in introducing legislation are undermining plans to launch real estate developments.
Five firms line up for $1bn Kuwait airport terminal

26 September 2008, 18:01 GMT
Five companies are being invited to bid for the design contract for the $1bn terminal at Kuwait International airport.
Real estate company profile: Tamdeen

25 September 2008, 22:11 GMT
Leading the Kuwaiti contingent in MEED’s real estate 100 survey is Tamdeen Real Estate Development Company. Established in Kuwait in 1982, it is a public company listed on the Kuwait Stock Exchange with assets of more than KD432m ($1.6bn). The company merged with the Salmiya Real Estate Company in 1997.
Real estate market profile: Kuwait

25 September 2008, 22:02 GMT
High operating costs are stagnating the market and forcing home developers to look further afield.
Real estate company profile: Emaar, The Economic City

25 September 2008, 20:30 GMT
The Emaar brand is most commonly associated with Dubai, thanks mainly to its iconic Burj Dubai development. But it is outside the UAE’s borders that the group’s impact is given a broader context. In Saudi Arabia, its associated company, Emaar, The Economic City (Emaar EC), is developing the largest private sector-led project in the region.
Real estate market profile: Saudi Arabia

25 September 2008, 20:19 GMT
The kingdom’s real estate market has huge potential as a result of its rapidly growing population.
Global Trading expresses interest in Oman sewage deal

25 September 2008, 14:20 GMT
One firm has so far expressed interest in the tender for the construction of a new sewerage system and the upgrading of the existing sewage treatment plant in Barka South, in Oman.
Abdullah Ahmad Dossary Trading wins Jubail 2 deal

25 September 2008, 13:48 GMT
The local Abdullah Ahmad Dossary Trading Enterprise (AAD) has been awarded an infrastructure contract for construction work at Jubail 2 in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi firm to launch tower project on Dubai Waterfront

24 September 2008, 14:17 GMT
Saudi-based developer The Land Development & Investment Company is to launch a new tower project in the UAE.
Al-Osaimi to issue tenders for Palm Jumeirah hotel in 2009

24 September 2008, 6:56 GMT
Tenders are due to be issued for a new hotel project on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah in February.
Kuwait Oil Company invites bids for Mina al-Ahmadi work

23 September 2008, 14:15 GMT
Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) has invited bids for a consultancy contract to manage the facilities at its Mina al-Ahmadi township redevelopment.
Tabung Haji to build hotel in Mecca

23 September 2008, 11:56 GMT
The Malaysian-based Tabung Haji is to construct a 30-floor hotel in Mecca.
Limitless launches Dubai island project

22 September 2008, 13:30 GMT
The UAE’s Limitless has launched a AED1.3bn ($350m) development on The World project off the coast of Dubai.
Siemens wins King Abdullah Economic City work

22 September 2008, 7:41 GMT
The German-based Siemens has been awarded a SR553m ($148m) contract for work at King Abdullah Economic City in Saudi Arabia.
Kuwait's Al-Mazaya to expand in UAE, Bahrain

21 September 2008, 12:43 GMT
Kuwait’s Al-Mazaya Holding is to expand its presence in the region with the launch of two further companies in the GCC.
Dubai developer launches new tower in Dubai Sports City

21 September 2008, 8:39 GMT
The Dubai-based developer Memon Investments has launched a AED338m ($92m) residential tower project in Dubai Sports City.
Construction work on City of Silk faces three-year delay

19 September 2008, 13:27 GMT
Contractors blame bureaucracy for slow progress on the $58bn megaproject.
Sorouh and Tameer award Reem island deal to Orascom Construction

18 September 2008, 12:14 GMT
Egypt’s Orascom Construction Industries has been awarded a AED551m ($150m) construction contract for work on Abu Dhabi’s Reem island.
Riyadh awards Jubail 2 deal to Al-Harbi

18 September 2008, 11:12 GMT
The Saudi-based Al-Harbi Trading & Contracting has been awarded a SR250m ($68m) construction contract at Jubail.
Kuwait island projects remain on hold

17 September 2008, 16:38 GMT
Work on two proposed island projects in Kuwait has stalled as the developer awaits approval from Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser al-Mohammed al-Ahmed al-Sabah.
Consultancy firms line up for Oman expressway

17 September 2008, 15:15 GMT
Three consultancy firms are due to submit bids for an expressway contract in Oman in November.
Kuwaiti company to develop Hail economic city

16 September 2008, 16:11 GMT
Kuwait-based developer Al-Mal Investment Company has signed an agreement with the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (Sagia) to become the sole developer of Prince Abdulaziz bin Mosaed Economic City at Hail.
Tenders for Al-Khobar seafront development due by December

16 September 2008, 15:20 GMT
Tenders for a new mixed-use residential project in Al-Khobar on Saudi Arabia’s east coast are expected to be issued in three months' time.
Contract awarded for Ras Laffan training centre

15 September 2008, 14:24 GMT
Tebodin Middle East, part of the Hague’s Tebodin Consultants & Engineers, has been awarded the design contract for the Ras Laffan Emergency & Safety College in Qatar.
UAE firm to provide pipe network for Palm Jebel Ali

15 September 2008, 13:55 GMT
The UAE’s Advanced Composites has been awarded a AED58m ($16m) contract to provide the district cooling piping network to Palm Jebel Ali.
Riyadh to sign tower deals worth $10bn

15 September 2008, 11:33 GMT
Design and build contracts for King Abdullah Financial District to be awarded by the end of September.
Schon Properties awards contract for UAE business park

14 September 2008, 12:54 GMT
The UAE's Schon Properties has awarded the local United Engineering Construction (Unec) a AED400m ($109m) construction contract in Schon Business Park.
Tiger Properties launches tower project on Dubai Waterfront

14 September 2008, 10:52 GMT
The UAE-based real estate developer Tiger Properties is to launch two new towers on the Dubai Waterfront development.
Doha increases diplomatic influence

14 September 2008, 6:02 GMT
Qatar’s presence at the Damascus summit highlights its growing role in regional affairs as Washington and Riyadh shift their focus to domestic matters.
Firms submit bids for Shadidyah housing project

11 September 2008, 13:09 GMT
Local firms have submitted bids for a housing project in Kuwait's Shadidiyah district.
Arabian Bemco awards power plant deal to Al-Mabani

11 September 2008, 9:27 GMT
The Saudi-based Al-Mabani has been awarded a SR1bn ($267m) contract for a civil works package in Riyadh for the PP10 power plant.
Saudi ranked as best business location in the region

10 September 2008, 14:24 GMT
Saudi Arabia has been ranked the best place to do business in the Middle East, according to a World Bank report.
Firms begin construction work on Jabal Omar in Mecca

10 September 2008, 10:58 GMT
Construction work on the $2.7bn Jabal Omar project in Mecca has started.
Firms to submit bids for Riyadh communications authority building contract

9 September 2008, 13:35 GMT
Bids are to be submitted for a new government headquarters building in Riyadh on 14 October.
Saudi contractor begins mobilisation works on Najran airport

9 September 2008, 12:08 GMT
The Saudi contractor Al-Mabani General Contractors has begun mobilisation works on the Najran airport project.
Madaen al-Nour signs Jordanian housing deal

8 September 2008, 12:23 GMT
The Jordanian-based Madaen al-Nour for Investments and Real Estate Development has formed a partnership with the Jordanian Housing and Urban Development Corporation for the construction of new housing units.
Firms to submit bids for Gate of Kuwait in October

8 September 2008, 11:35 GMT
Bids for the Gate of Kuwait are expected to be submitted in October.
Gulf investors plan aluminium extrusion plant in Algeria

7 September 2008, 12:05 GMT
Saudi-based Construction Products Holding Company (CPC) and Dubai-based Alumco have formed a joint venture to set up an aluminium extrusion factory in Algeria.
Bids submitted for Kuwait infrastructure works

7 September 2008, 11:13 GMT
Two companies have submitted bids for road improvement works in Kuwait.
Riyadh to award border fence work at third of original price

5 September 2008, 16:31 GMT
Bids resubmitted in August following a scaling back in the project’s scope.
Qatari and French leaders attend peace summit in Damascus

4 September 2008, 14:33 GMT
The Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and French President Nicolas Sarkozy have attended peace talks in Damascus, as part of efforts to find a settlement between Syria and Israel.
Firms submit bids for Kuwait road improvement work

4 September 2008, 8:39 GMT
Bids have been submitted for road improvement works in Kuwait.
Sarkozy begins visit to Syria

3 September 2008, 13:11 GMT
The French President Nicolas Sarkozy arrived in Syria on 3 September in a bid to strengthen ties between the two countries.
Shibh al-Jazira wins Jeddah ringroad contract

3 September 2008, 12:52 GMT
The Saudi-based Shibh al-Jazira Contracting Company has secured a construction package for the second ringroad in Jeddah.
Sovereign Hospitality to develop hotels in Ethiopia

2 September 2008, 13:21 GMT
Sovereign Hospitality Holdings, a tourism and real estate investment company owned by the Kuwait-based Mohammed Abdulmohsin Al-Kharafi & Sons Company, is to establish two hotels in Ethiopia.
Riyadh issues tender for Hail university building

2 September 2008, 12:29 GMT
A tender has been issued for a new faculty building at University of Hail in Saudi Arabia.
Al-Habtoor and joint venture firms win Tameer Towers deal

1 September 2008, 14:37 GMT
The joint venture of local Al-Habtoor Engineering, South Africa’s Murray & Roberts and Saudi-based Al-Rahji Contracting has been awarded a AED6bn ($1.6bn) for the construction contract of Tameer Towers.
Firms submit bids for Dubai Techno Park infrastructure contract

1 September 2008, 14:17 GMT
Bids have been submitted for a AED2bn ($545m) infrastructure package at Dubai Techno Park.
Mile High Tower to be unveiled to public in October

31 August 2008, 11:20 GMT
The design for Jeddah’s proposed Mile High tower will be unveiled in the first week of October.
Sagia seeks help for Hail economic city

8 August 2008, 17:22 GMT
Additional developer will work alongside Rakisa as concerns mount over the project’s progress.
Firms to submit bids for ministry headquarters in Riyadh

7 August 2008, 10:02 GMT
Bids are to be submitted for a new Communications Ministry headquarters in Riyadh by early September.
Royal Commission issues Jubail site preparation tender

6 August 2008, 14:34 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu has issued a tender for the site preparation works at Mutrafiah, part of the Jubail 2 industrial area.
Kuwait set to to issue tender for ring road

6 August 2008, 13:05 GMT
A tender for the eighth ring road in Kuwait is due to be issued in the near future, once design work has been completed.
Kuwait to issue contracts for court complexes

5 August 2008, 12:52 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Works Ministry is looking to issue two new construction contracts for court houses, pending design approval.
Oman issues tender for Sohar airport infrastructure

5 August 2008, 11:34 GMT
Oman’s Transport & Communication Ministry is inviting selected firms to bid for the airfield infrastructure package at Sohar’s new airport.
Azizi Investments to develop land at Dubai's Mina Rashid

4 August 2008, 14:11 GMT
The Dubai-based property developer Azizi Investments has announced it will develop a plot at Mina Rashid, Nakheel’s redevelopment of Port Rashid.
Arabtec Construction wins AED1.6bn Bawadi villa contract

4 August 2008, 13:41 GMT
The Dubai-based Arabtec Construction has secured a AED1.6bn ($436m) contract to design and construct 1,437 villas in Dubailand.
Koreans bid low for hospital work

31 July 2008, 18:05 GMT
A joint venture of the South-Korean Posco Engineering & Construction with the local Syed Hamid Behbani & Sons is the low bidder for the Jaber al-Ahmed al-Sabah hospital in Kuwait.
Al-Noor approaches local contractors for $300bn city deal

31 July 2008, 17:54 GMT
The developers of the Al-Noor City project to build a bridge crossing the Red Sea linking two new cities in Yemen and Djibouti are approaching local contractors to ascertain their interest in the $300bn project.
How Muscat can tackle inflation

31 July 2008, 12:24 GMT
Despite inflation reaching a record high in May, Oman has yet to act to bring it under control. Christopher Sell reports on how it could deal with the problem.
Construction on Wataniya headquarters to start within 12 months

30 July 2008, 14:54 GMT
The concept design of the headquarters of the National Mobile Telecommunications (Wataniya) in Kuwait has been completed and construction is due to start in the next 12 months.
Ground preparation work begins on Saudi Knowledge Economic City

30 July 2008, 14:21 GMT
Land preparation work has started at Knowledge Economic City (KEC) in Saudi Arabia.
Intercontinental and Bukhamseen to develop hotel in Kuwait

29 July 2008, 13:44 GMT
The UK's Intercontinental Hotels Group has signed an agreement with the Kuwaiti business-house Bukhamseen Holding Group to develop a new Intercontinental hotel in Kuwait
Mushrif shareholders approve proposal to raise capital

29 July 2008, 12:05 GMT
Kuwait’s Mushrif Trading & Contracting Company has had its proposed capital raising of KD14m ($53m) approved by shareholders.
Arabtec posts profit increase of 191 per cent

27 July 2008, 11:40 GMT
Dubai-based Arabtec Holding has announced a consolidated profit of AED505m ($138m) for the first half of 2008.
Bids submitted for Seef Plaza project management contract

27 July 2008, 10:20 GMT
Technical bids have been submitted for the project management of the Seef Plaza project in Bahrain.
Firms submit fresh bids for Saudi border deal

25 July 2008, 18:02 GMT
Rising cost of raw materials has led to delays in the project to install a radar-based security system.
Saudi Binladin submits low bid for girls’ college contract

25 July 2008, 17:44 GMT
Saudi Binladin Group is the low bidder for the multi-billion-dollar contract to construct a girls’ college next to King Saud University in Riyadh.
Gulf Finance House to establish steel company

24 July 2008, 11:46 GMT
The Bahrain-based investment bank Gulf Finance House has announced plans to create a new steel company to serve the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region.
Residential property sales at King Abdullah Economic City reach $267m

24 July 2008, 9:48 GMT
Sales of residential property at King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) has reached SR1bn ($267m) according to the developer Emaar, The Economic City.
Manazel bids low for Saudi university contract

23 July 2008, 13:58 GMT
The Saudi-based contractor Manazel is the low bidder for the construction contract at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah.
Al-Redwan wins King Abdullah Economic City villa contract

23 July 2008, 13:39 GMT
The local Al-Redwan has been awarded a contract to construct villas in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) in Saudi Arabia.
Human Rights Watch urges Riyadh to reform labour law

22 July 2008, 9:29 GMT
The US-based Human Rights Watch has called on the Saudi Arabian government to implement its proposed reform to the ‘kafala’ sponsorship system and extend protection to domestic workers.
Al-Kharafi bids low for Al-Tameer project

22 July 2008, 8:38 GMT
Three bids have been submitted for the Al-Tameer office building in Kuwait, all from local firms. The low bidder is Khalid Ali al-Kharafi & Brothers Company with a bid of KD41.5m ($157m).
Ranya Group to build Dubai Sports City towers

21 July 2008, 12:31 GMT
Dubai-based developer Chapal World has awarded a AED367m ($100m) contract to the local Ranya Group.
Profits treble at Deyaar Development

21 July 2008, 6:38 GMT
Dubai-based property developer Deyaar Development has announced a net profit for the second quarter of 2008 of AED247m ($67m), almost three times the figure for the same period in 2007.
Kuwait’s Mushrif to raise KD14m ($53m) capital

20 July 2008, 11:08 GMT
Kuwait’s Mushrif Trading & Contracting Company is in the process of raising capital valued at KD14m ($53m).
Bahrain Housing Ministry issues tender for townhouses

20 July 2008, 11:04 GMT
Twelve bids have been submitted for residential construction work in Bahrain.
Kuwait must act to halt exodus of local contractors

18 July 2008, 8:30 GMT
Kuwait could do worse than observe how its southern neighbour, Saudi Arabia, is handling the rising costs of construction materials.
Risk drives Kuwaiti contractors abroad

17 July 2008, 18:06 GMT
Firms compete for international work as local clients decline to share risk of rising materials costs.
Mushrif Trading & Contracting

17 July 2008, 16:01 GMT
The Kuwait-based Mushrif Trading & Contracting is in a good position for expansion after relocating its headquarters to the UAE.
Mushrif Trading & Contracting: MEED Assessment

17 July 2008, 16:01 GMT
The Kuwait-based Mushrif Trading & Contracting is in a good position for expansion after relocating headquarters to the UAE.
Q&A: Donald Featherstone, CEO, Mushrif Trading & Contracting

17 July 2008, 16:01 GMT
A strategic move to the UAE allows Mushrif to take advantage of the rapidly expanding construction market
Damac awards enabling works for marina project

15 July 2008, 15:01 GMT
Turkish company Zetas Foundation Technology has been awarded the enabling works for the 98-storey Damac Heights project in Dubai Marina.
Kuwait ministry issues road tenders

15 July 2008, 14:37 GMT
Two tenders have been issued for road improvements in Kuwait, with a total value of KD35m ($132m).
Drake & Scull awarded Yas Island contract

14 July 2008, 14:14 GMT
Dubai-based Drake & Scull International has been awarded a AED125m ($34m) contract for two hotel projects on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.
Bahrain's Capivest to build a $1bn magnesium smelter.

14 July 2008, 13:58 GMT
The Bahrain-based investment bank Capivest has announced plans to establish a BD377m ($1bn) company to build a magnesium smelter.
Royal Commission awards building design contract

13 July 2008, 9:06 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu has awarded Saudi Consulting Services a SR40m ($11m) building services design contract.
Chinese firm wins $612m contract for Saudi University

13 July 2008, 8:17 GMT
Chinese contractor Guangdong Overseas Construction Group has been awarded a SR2.3bn ($612m) contract for work at King Khaled University.
Developer to launch giant Jeddah project

11 July 2008, 16:28 GMT
Riyadh-based property developer Dar al-Arkan is to launch a multi-billion-dollar mixed-used development in Jeddah before the end of the year.
Regeneration of Riyadh to start in 2009

11 July 2008, 15:26 GMT
Riyadh is set to have a SR7.5bn ($2bn) redevelopment approved early in 2009, once the go-ahead is given for a new light rail system in the city.
Bids submitted for Bahrain sewerage work

10 July 2008, 11:40 GMT
Bids have been submitted for a sewerage contract in the kingdom of Bahrain.
Emaar signs plastics agreement with Savola Group

10 July 2008, 10:21 GMT
A plastics industry hub will be established in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) under an agreement signed between Emaar The Economic City and Saudi Arabia's Savola Group.
Tender issued for design consultant for Oman hotel

9 July 2008, 14:12 GMT
A tender has been issued for design consultancy services on the Jabal al-Akhdar hotel project in Oman.
Local firm Al-Qasim wins maritime college contract in Oman

9 July 2008, 13:33 GMT
Local firm Al-Qasim Trading & Contracting has been awarded the construction contract for a new college building in Sohar.
Mushrif to relocate to Abu Dhabi

8 July 2008, 13:26 GMT
Mushrif Trading & Contracting is relocating its corporate headquarters from Kuwait to Abu Dhabi, as it looks to capitalise on the booming construction sector in the emirates.
Kuwait firm selected for hospital car park contract

8 July 2008, 8:32 GMT
Kuwait Company for Process Plant Construction & Contracting (KCPC) has been selected for the contract to build a car park to serve the planned Jaber al-Ahmed hospital in the South Surra district of Kuwait City.
Al-Redwan tipped to secure Yanbu villas contract

7 July 2008, 14:30 GMT
The local Al-Redwan Contracting Company is set to be awarded the construction contract for villas at Yanbu in Saudi Arabia.
Al-Hani wins Bayan Palace conference centre contract

7 July 2008, 14:18 GMT
The local Al-Hani Construction & Trading Company has been selected for the conference centre contract at Bayan Palace in Kuwait.
Abdulrahman Khalid al-Ghunaim

Issue No 27 4 - 10 July 2008
Abdulrahman Khalid al-Ghunaim is communications minister, Kuwait
Ali Dashti

Issue No 27 4 - 10 July 2008
Ali Dashti is chairman, KGL Holding
Hamad al-Falah

Issue No 27 4 - 10 July 2008
Hamad al-Falah is chairman and managing director, Kuwait Airways
Sheikh Sabah Jaber al-Ali al-Sabah

Issue No 27 4 - 10 July 2008
A key figure in the Kuwait transport sector
Tarek Sultan

Issue No 27 4 - 10 July 2008
Tarek Sultan is chairman and managing director, Agility
Taibah university building contract due by month end

6 July 2008, 12:44 GMT
The award for a building contract at Taibah University, near Medina, is due to be made by the end of July.
Residential development launched at Dubai Maritime City

6 July 2008, 12:13 GMT
The local property developer, Iris has launched a AED2.5bn ($680m) residential development, to be located in Dubai Maritime City (DMC).
Riyadh backs contractor compensation

4 July 2008, 16:59 GMT
Royal decree confirms decision to cover additional costs incurred as a result of rising raw materials prices.
Madain to expand into Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi

4 July 2008, 16:42 GMT
Madain Properties, the Dubai-based firm that is planning to launch projects worth AED3bn ($817m) in the UAE this year, is to expand into Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi over the next 12 months.
Riyadh is right to compensate firms

4 July 2008, 15:53 GMT
Relief for contractors will be tempered by the knowledge that progress is unlikely to be immediate.
Kuwait Transport: Six key people

4 July 2008, 15:26 GMT
The six most important people in the country’s transport sector: Abdulrahman Khalid al-Ghunaim, Abdulrahman Khalid al-Ghunaim, Tarek Sultan, Ali Dashti, Hamad al-Falah and Sheikh Sabah Jaber al-Ali al-Sabah.
Award for King Abdulaziz University contract nears

3 July 2008, 13:35 GMT
The award for a construction contract at King Abdulaziz University is expected by mid-July.
Kuwait hospital deadline extended for third time

3 July 2008, 13:13 GMT
The deadline for bids for the Jaber al-Ahmed al-Sabah hospital in Kuwait has been extended for a third time.
Al-Redwan set to win King Abdullah Economic City contract

2 July 2008, 14:04 GMT
The contract for 150 villas in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) is expected to be awarded to the local Al-Redwan Contracting Company in the next 10 days.
Kuwait invites prequalifiers for airport construction work

2 July 2008, 7:41 GMT
Kuwait’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has invited contractors to prequalify for a construction package at Kuwait International Airport.
Emaar plans mixed-use project in King Abdullah Economic City

1 July 2008, 9:47 GMT
US real estate investment firm Capri Capital Partners has signed a deal with Emaar, the Economic City to develop a mixed-use project in King Abdullah Economic City, in Saudi Arabia.
Construction package for Riyadh gardens due in November

1 July 2008, 8:14 GMT
Tenders for the remaining construction packages at the King Abdullah International Gardens project will be issued in November.
Riyadh to launch industrial development in a prison

30 June 2008, 11:26 GMT
A new industrial development is to be launched in a prison close to the Saudi Arabian capital.
Work to start on Ajmakan masterplan

30 June 2008, 11:08 GMT
Work is due to begin on the masterplan for Ajmakan, a 2 million square metre development in Riyadh.
Emaar Bawadi launch residential tower complex

29 June 2008, 13:37 GMT
Emaar Bawadi, a joint venture between the local Emaar Properties and Bawadi, a member of Tatweer, has launched Maysan Towers.
Saudi tourism plan receives approval

29 June 2008, 11:17 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s $38bn tourism strategy has been approved by the Council of Ministers.
Grand Mosque plan threatens regeneration work in Mecca

27 June 2008, 18:38 GMT
Contractors fear billions of dollars worth of developments will be demolished.
Government to consider proposals for Kuwait Bay islands

27 June 2008, 16:57 GMT
Plans for a major development in Kuwait featuring two man-made islands will be presented to Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser al-Mohammed al-Ahmed al-Sabah in the next two weeks.
Transport: Connecting the kingdom

27 June 2008, 14:54 GMT
After years of delays, Saudi Arabia’s road, rail and aviation infrastructure is finally getting the investment it needs to cope with economic growth.
Saudisation: Relaxing the quota rules

27 June 2008, 13:14 GMT
Changes in the government’s Saudisation policy have been welcomed, but many contractors complain that they do not go far enough.
Saudi contractors push for change

27 June 2008, 13:08 GMT
With the cost of raw materials rising ever higher, contractors are urging Riyadh to take inflation risk into account on new contracts, and there are signs that changes will be made.
Tender issued for Oman power plant

26 June 2008, 13:29 GMT
A tender has been issued for the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract for a power plant in Oman.
Bids submitted for Riyadh women's college

26 June 2008, 6:50 GMT
Bids have been submitted for the SR7bn ($1.9bn) women’s college at King Saud University.
Saudi Oger to complete work on Meridian Towers by end of 2008

25 June 2008, 16:26 GMT
Saudi Oger is to complete work on the final six towers of the Meridian Towers development in Mecca by the end of 2008.
Saudi Freyssinet tipped for Headquarters Business Park contract

25 June 2008, 13:44 GMT
Saudi Freyssinet looks set to secure the SR800m ($213m) contract for the Headquarters Business Park in Jeddah.
Construction to start on $2.5bn Mecca project

24 June 2008, 15:08 GMT
Construction work on the first phase of the Rawabi Abraj al-Bait is due to begin by the end of 2008.
Riyadh authority issues tender for construction of museums

24 June 2008, 14:04 GMT
A tender is to be issued for construction work at Atturaif, close to Riyadh, one of Saudi Arabia’s major cultural sites.
Oman issues tender for Sohar airport

23 June 2008, 14:42 GMT
A tender has been issued for a construction package at the new Sohar airport in Oman.
Emaar awards economic city cooling contract

23 June 2008, 12:12 GMT
UAE-based City Cool Company has signed a deal to provide cooling stations to King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) in Saudi Arabia.
Enabling works started at Dubai Towers - Dubai

22 June 2008, 12:40 GMT
Construction work on the Dubai Towers - Dubai has begun.
Saudi Arabia hosts oil price summit

22 June 2008, 12:24 GMT
Saudi Arabia is hosting an international energy conference to discuss the oil crisis and to look at ways of bringing rising prices under control.
Riyadh awards $900m border fence deal

20 June 2008, 18:58 GMT
Joint venture of Al-Rashid and Eads wins contract to build 900km fence along Iraqi border.
Qapco issues tenders for Mesaieed

20 June 2008, 18:05 GMT
Qatar Petrochemical Company (Qapco) has issued to bid the tender documents for its planned low-density polyethylene plant (LDPE) at Mesaieed.
Concern mounts over Saudi Arabian economic cities

20 June 2008, 16:35 GMT
Prioritisation of King Abdullah Economic City raises fears that five other megaprojects may be delayed.
Riyadh is right to prioritise King Abdullah Economic City

20 June 2008, 16:05 GMT
Given the scale of activity involved in developing six economic cities, Sagia is right to focus on them one by one.
Riyadh issues tender for Yanbu waterfront work

19 June 2008, 13:10 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu has issued a tender for the construction and site development of the waterfront at Yanbu.
Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu awards $107m electrical contract

19 June 2008, 12:52 GMT
Saudi Services for Electro Mechanic Works has been awarded a SR400m ($107m) contract for electrical works at Jubail 2.
Shortlist for Gate of Kuwait tower nears

18 June 2008, 15:24 GMT
Kuwait's Al-Shaya Group will reveal the list of prequalified bidders to build the $260m 70-storey Gate of Kuwait tower next week.
Huta Group wins King Abdullah Economic City contract

18 June 2008, 10:50 GMT
Saudi Arabia's Huta Group has been awarded a SR83m ($22m) contract for construction work in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC).
Knowledge Economic City construction starts in early 2009

17 June 2008, 14:09 GMT
Construction work on Saudi Arabia's Knowledge Economic City (KEC) is set to start in the first few months of 2009.
Mobilisation work begins on Saudi domestic airports

17 June 2008, 13:35 GMT
The local Al-Mabani has begun work on three airports in the kingdom.
France and US reaffirm support for Beirut

16 June 2008, 11:11 GMT
A joint statement has been issued by the US and French governments reaffirming their support of an independent, democratic Lebanon.
Al-Mazaya to launch Saudi Arabia real estate projects

15 June 2008, 11:03 GMT
The Kuwait-based Al-Mazaya Real Estate Development Company is to launch three mixed-used projects in Saudi Arabia with a total value of SR4bn ($1.1bn).
Contract for Lamar Towers expected within weeks

15 June 2008, 8:40 GMT
The main construction contract for the Lamar Towers in Jeddah is due to be awarded in the next few weeks, according to the project manager on the scheme.
Salmiya Park construction tender to be issued in August

15 June 2008, 8:36 GMT
The tender for the main construction package for Kuwait’s Salmiya Park project is expected to be issued in mid-August, according to sources involved in the project.
Ground conditions in Jeddah force review of high-rise developments

13 June 2008, 18:35 GMT
The cost of high-rise developments in Jeddah is expected to increase because of engineering challenges that are only now emerging, according to geotechnical specialists.
Jeddah ground conditions force review of high-rise developments

13 June 2008, 18:01 GMT
The cost of high-rise developments in Jeddah is expected to increase because of engineering challenges that are only now emerging, according to geotechnical specialists.
Saudi Arabia's sky-high ambitions

13 June 2008, 11:43 GMT
The kingdom’s city skylines are set to be transformed as developers start taking advantage of a relaxation in the height-cap on buildings.
Investment in King Abdullah Economic City passes $35bn

12 June 2008, 15:49 GMT
Investment in King Abdullah Economic City has reached more than SR130bn ($35bn), according to Amr al-Dabbagh, governor of the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (Sagia).
Construction work on Jabal Omar to begin this year in Mecca

10 June 2008, 17:23 GMT
Foundation work on the Jabal Omar project in Mecca is due to begin by the end of the summer.
Ras al-Khaimah launches offshore development

9 June 2008, 13:59 GMT
The UAE emirate of Ras al-Khaimah has launched an offshore mixed-use development.
Drake & Scull wins contract on Palm Jumeirah

9 June 2008, 13:01 GMT
The Dubai-based Drake & Scull International has been awarded a AED162m ($44m) contract for mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) work on the Palm Jumeirah.
Tender issued for flood protection scheme in Oman

8 June 2008, 12:39 GMT
A tender has been issued for a consultant to conduct a feasibility study and undertake thedetailed design of a flood protection dam scheme in the Hilti-Salahi catchments in Oman.
Second phase of residential community launched in King Abdullah Economic City

8 June 2008, 10:33 GMT
Emaar, the Economic City has launched the second phase of the Esmeralda Suburb, located in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC).
Three-year tenders delay Saudi road projects

6 June 2008, 17:01 GMT
Contractors complain that 36-month timeline regardless of scale or complexity slows progress on schemes.
Royal Commission issues packages for Jubail and Yanbu

5 June 2008, 9:52 GMT
The Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu has issued packages for four more construction contracts in the two cities.
Firms bid for $150m Riyadh road contract

5 June 2008, 9:14 GMT
Bids have been submitted for a new road construction contract in Riyadh.
Government issues tender for $320m Riyadh office building

4 June 2008, 13:15 GMT
The General Organisation for Social Insurance has issued the tender for the construction of a new office building in Riyadh.
King Saud University issues tender for $1.9bn women's college

4 June 2008, 12:38 GMT
A tender has been issued for a new women’s college at King Saud University in Riyadh.
Shibh al-Jazira tipped to land $100m infrastructure contract

3 June 2008, 12:36 GMT
Saudi firm Shibh al-Jazira Contracting Company has been tipped to sign a SR375m ($100m) infrastructure contract for a road scheme in Jeddah.
Bids submitted for Saudi university

3 June 2008, 12:23 GMT
Bids have been submitted for a university building at Taibah University, near Medina, with an award expected in July.
Bids in for Oman justice ministry building

2 June 2008, 14:16 GMT
Bids have been received for the construction of a Ministry of Justice building in Sohar, Oman.
Emaar to open second school in King Abdullah Economic City

2 June 2008, 8:23 GMT
Emaar The Economic City has signed an agreement with sister company Emaar Education to open a new educational facility in King Abdullah Economic City.
National Engineering Bureau to be consultant on Palm project

1 June 2008, 9:29 GMT
The local National Engineering Bureau (NEB) has been appointed design consultant for two proposed projects on Palm Jebel Ali.
Tender issued for Muscat Court complex

1 June 2008, 8:43 GMT
A tender has been issued for a new government building in Oman’s capital Muscat.
Saudi contractors push for steel price index

30 May 2008, 17:38 GMT
Construction companies urge Riyadh to create benchmark to bring greater stability to the market.
Sudair Industrial City development to begin in August

30 May 2008, 17:32 GMT
The development of Sudair Industrial City, the $40bn project north of Riyadh, could be formally launched as early as August.
Compromise is needed on costs

30 May 2008, 16:19 GMT
Risk is likely to be shared more evenly between different parts of the industry in the future.
Dubai office space among world's most expensive

29 May 2008, 16:25 GMT
Office space in Dubai is now among the most expensive in the world, according to a new report published by the UK’s CB Richard Ellis, a firm which advises on real estate issues.
GE Energy awarded contracts worth $500m

29 May 2008, 12:49 GMT
The US’ GE Energy has signed contracts totalling $500m for industrial projects in Saudi Arabia.
Local firm awarded contract for Jumeirah Village project

28 May 2008, 14:23 GMT
The local Square General Contracting Company (SGCC) has been awarded a AED203m ($55m) contract for a residential project in Nakheel’s Jumeirah Village South.
Tenders for university science park due by end of year

28 May 2008, 11:33 GMT
Tenders for a new educational facility at King Saud University in Riyadh are to be issued at the end of 2008.
Deyaar Real Estate launches residential towers project

27 May 2008, 12:37 GMT
The local Deyaar Real Estate has launched a three-tower residential project in Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech).
Saudi university plans drawn up

27 May 2008, 12:01 GMT
Plans are being drawn up for the construction of a new university in the southern region of Asir in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi and UAE firms collaborate on Ajman development

26 May 2008, 12:10 GMT
The Saudi-based developer Berjal Real Estate has joined with local developer Al-Rashid Real Estate to launch a major project in the emirate of Ajman.
Lebanon elects Suleiman as new president

26 May 2008, 10:28 GMT
General Michel Suleiman has been voted in as the new president of Lebanon.
Bid deadline extended for Kuwaiti hospital

25 May 2008, 13:16 GMT
The deadline for bids for the Jaber al-Ahmed al-Sabah hospital in Kuwait has been extended.
Abu Dhabi announces five-year transport plan

25 May 2008, 12:03 GMT
Abu Dhabi’s Ministry of Transport has announced its five-year strategic plan for 2008 - 2012.
Saudi contractors seek international partners as high-rise takes off

23 May 2008, 17:13 GMT
Demand for tall buildings set to soar following lifting of height restrictions.
El-Seif Group

23 May 2008, 12:43 GMT
The Saudi conglomerate is expanding in an effort to combat soaring inflation
Q&A: Khaled Musaed al-Seif, CEO, El-Seif Group

23 May 2008, 9:00 GMT
Joint ventures with foreign entities are especially being discussed
El-Seif Group: MEED Assessment

23 May 2008, 8:26 GMT
El-Seif Group will be as challenged by the current inflationary economic climate as any other firm in the kingdom
Al-Mabani wins Saudi airports work

21 May 2008, 17:11 GMT
The local Al-Mabani has been awarded a contract from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (Gaca) for the renovation and repair of seven domestic airports in the kingdom.
Al-Duaa launches Jumeirah Village development

21 May 2008, 13:41 GMT
The local property developer Al-Duaa Holdings has launched a AED240m ($65m) residential project in Jumeirah Village, the Nakheel development located near Dubai Marina.
Al-Redwan set to win economic city contract

21 May 2008, 13:37 GMT
The local Al-Redwan Contracting Company is expected to be awarded a SR450m ($120m) contract for 150 villas in King Abdullah Economic City.
Saudi Freyssinet wins Jeddah road contract

21 May 2008, 13:34 GMT
The local Saudi Freyssinet has been awarded a SR200m ($53m) construction contract for infrastructure work in Jeddah.
Two firms bid for Yanbu villa contract

20 May 2008, 16:12 GMT
Two firms have submitted bids for a villa construction contract in Yanbu on the west coast of Saudi Arabia.
Five firms shortlisted for Andalusia tower project in Jeddah

19 May 2008, 14:21 GMT
Five local companies have been prequalified for the main construction contract on the $560m Andalusia Square Towers project in Jeddah.
Saudi Freyssinet set to win Jeddah tower contract

19 May 2008, 14:17 GMT
The local Saudi Freyssinet is set to win a contract to construct a 54-floor tower on the Jeddah corniche.
Mile High tower in Saudi Arabia comes up short

16 May 2008, 14:45 GMT
Kingdom Holding’s Mile High tower is likely to be significantly shorter than originally conceived.
Riyadh right to focus on regional tourists

16 May 2008, 13:20 GMT
With 13 million domestic visitors annually, the kingdom need not concern itself with Western tourists.
Riyadh’s Red Sea vision

16 May 2008, 12:05 GMT
The government is investing $40bn in resorts along the Red Sea coast to attract visitors and provide jobs.
Growth drives shift in Gulf desalination technology

16 May 2008, 10:09 GMT
Gulf states are turning to reverse osmosis desalination as demand for water rises and energy costs increase.
Four bid for court building in Oman

15 May 2008, 13:30 GMT
Four firms have submitted bids for the construction of a government building in Muscat.
Four firms line up for Oman hotel project

15 May 2008, 12:13 GMT
Four firms have so far purchased tender documents for the contract to build a new hotel development in Duqm in Oman.
Work begins on Riyadh botanical gardens

14 May 2008, 11:30 GMT
Work has begun on the first phase of the King Abdullah International Gardens project in Riyadh.
Bids in for two university contracts in Saudi Arabia

14 May 2008, 9:47 GMT
Bids have been submitted for construction work at two universities in the kingdom, King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah and Al-Imam Mohamed Ibn Saud Islamic Unviversity in Riyadh.
Dubai plans low carbon-emission project

13 May 2008, 14:00 GMT
Dubai is planning its second low carbon-emission development project which, like the first, will be located at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
Contractors submit bids for Kuwait road network

13 May 2008, 6:30 GMT
A total of 11 companies have submitted bids for the construction of a road network in Kuwait’s south and southeast oil fields.
First Bahrain and Kuwait Finance House reach financial close on logistics facility

12 May 2008, 14:50 GMT
The local First Bahrain Real Estate Development Company and Kuwait Finance House-Bahrain have closed on an Islamic project financing facility to develop a new $25m warehousing and logistics complex.
Nine companies prequalified for Ras al-Hadd airport

12 May 2008, 14:23 GMT
A total of nine companies have been prequalified for construction work at the Ras al-Hadd airport development project in Oman.
Mubark al-Gethmi wins KAEC contract

11 May 2008, 11:25 GMT
The local Mubark al-Gethmi has been awarded a SR200m ($53m) contact for work at King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC).
Lead designer picked for Limitless Towers

11 May 2008, 10:49 GMT
The US architect Murphy/ Jahn has been named the lead designer for the $300m Limitless Towers in Jordan.
Saudi Arabian transport studies near completion

9 May 2008, 17:19 GMT
Two studies for major transport projects in Saudi Arabia are nearing completion, with the Mecca light-rail project proposal due in September, followed by the feasibility plan for the GCC railway in October.
Riyadh right to focus on local tourists

9 May 2008, 15:37 GMT
There is no suggestion that the kingdom is culturally or socially ready to accept tourism on a mass scale, so Riyadh's focus will be local.
Riyadh approves $38bn Red Sea tourism plan

9 May 2008, 12:16 GMT
Sites in Medina or Jeddah are set to be the first of up to 19 developments aimed at domestic tourists.
Zabeel Investments to open hotel on Palm Jumeirah

8 May 2008, 12:30 GMT
Dubai-based Zabeel Investments has announced that it will open an Ottoman-themed hotel on the Palm Jumeirah in November.
Mammut breaks ground on AED500m Waterfront project

8 May 2008, 9:42 GMT
Dubai-based Mammut Group has started work on the AED500m ($136m) design and build contract for more than 140 villas and 850 apartments at Dubai Waterfront.
Saudi Lebanese Modern Construction Company wins contract to build court

7 May 2008, 15:46 GMT
The Saudi Lebanese Modern Construction Company has won a SR352m ($94m) 36-month contract to build a criminal court in Riyadh.
Emaar launches lake development in Saudi Arabia

7 May 2008, 14:43 GMT
Emaar Middle East has launched a new lakefront community development called Al-Khobar Lakes in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia tourism sector to be modernised

6 May 2008, 14:27 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector is to undergo a transformation, following a recent statute which has created a new governing body.
Saraya Aqaba signs agreement with Nikki Beach

6 May 2008, 7:15 GMT
Jordan's Saraya Aqaba Real Estate Development has signed an agreement with US tourism company Nikki Beach Hotels & Resorts to operate a hotel and serviced apartments at Saraya Aqaba resort.
Mohammed bin Rashid Gardens project to evoke Kuwait's City of Silk

5 May 2008, 9:44 GMT
Further details of Dubai’s new $54bn Mohammed bin Rashid Gardens have been revealed, with the new development bearing a strong visual resemblance to Kuwait’s City of Silk project.
Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu awards three housing contracts worth SR785m

5 May 2008, 5:36 GMT
The local REDICO has won two housing contracts worth SR527m ($140m) to build 412 residential housing units in Jubail.
Bids in for Bandar al-Seef project management

4 May 2008, 11:02 GMT
Three firms have submitted bids for the project management of the Bandar al-Seef project in Bahrain.
Oger moves to the next stage on King Abdullah road

4 May 2008, 10:52 GMT
Saudi Oger is to commence the next stage of its road improvements project in Riyadh in the coming months.
Riyadh to bankroll Sudair city loans

2 May 2008, 12:52 GMT
Private developers will pay low interest rates on funding that could run into billions of dollars.
Riyadh eases inflation pressure for contractors

2 May 2008, 12:24 GMT
The Saudi government is assessing ways to reimburse contractors for losses caused by rising prices.
Kuwait Dynamics wins National Assembly contract

1 May 2008, 9:25 GMT
Kuwait Dynamics has been awarded the main construction contract for the extension to the National Assembly building.
Al-Hani submits lowest bid for Kuwait conference centre

1 May 2008, 8:13 GMT
Four companies have submitted bids for the conference centre at Bayan Palace in Kuwait.
Sudair road tender to be issued in three months

30 April 2008, 14:32 GMT
Tenders for a road network in Sudair Industrial City are to be issued in three months.
Sudair electricity contract due in June

30 April 2008, 14:22 GMT
The contract to provide power to Sudair Industrial City in Saudi Arabia is expected to be awarded in June.
Binladin Group wins King Abdullah Economic City contract

29 April 2008, 14:55 GMT
Saudi Binladin Group has been awarded a SR1.4bn ($370m) contract to build residential towers in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC).
Mivan Depa wins fit-out contract for Arcapita Bank headquarters

29 April 2008, 14:05 GMT
The local Mivan Depa has been awarded the fit-out contract for the Arcapita Bank headquarters in Bahrain Bay.
Saudi Oger secures $400m construction contracts

28 April 2008, 13:24 GMT
Saudi Oger has won two construction contracts totalling SR1.5bn ($400m) for work in Saudi Arabia.
General Electric Healthcare signs joint venture deal with El-Seif

27 April 2008, 14:39 GMT
The US’ GE Healthcare has signed a joint venture with the local El-Seif Development Group.
Riyadh revises plan for financial district

25 April 2008, 18:09 GMT
Modifications to masterplan threaten to delay construction contract awards for up to six months.
Riyadh to award security fence contract within weeks

25 April 2008, 17:29 GMT
Riyadh is expected to award the long-awaited contract to build the northern border security fence within weeks.
Riyadh set to compensate contractors

25 April 2008, 16:39 GMT
The Saudi government is considering compensating contractors for losses incurred as a result of hikes in the cost of raw materials in the kingdom.
Specialists gain the upper hand

25 April 2008, 14:16 GMT
With reclamation projects transforming the Gulf coastline, specialist marine contractors are finding their skills in high demand. But competition is growing.
Taking the partnership approach

25 April 2008, 13:08 GMT
Faced with growing pressure on resources, contractors and developers are increasingly forming joint ventures as they struggle to deliver the region’s ambitious megaprojects.
El-Seif wins technology park contract

22 April 2008, 16:58 GMT
The local El-Seif Engineering & Contracting has secured the first phase contract for infrastructure work on the Information Technology & Communications Complex (ITCC) in Riyadh.
Al-Arrab bids low for university substation contract

22 April 2008, 10:20 GMT
Najen al-Jazeera, a subsidiary of the Riyadh-based Al-Arrab Contracting Company (ACC), has submitted the lowest bid for the substation at Hail University.
Contractors predict hike in costs for eastern expressway in Saudi Arabia

18 April 2008, 17:09 GMT
Transport Ministry estimates come under fire as budget is expected to double.
Getting the price right in Riyadh is essential

18 April 2008, 15:23 GMT
Major infrastructure projects in Saudi Arabia are being hit by the poor management of contracts by ill-prepared clients, according to contractors.
Firms to submit bids for Jeddah ring-road project

17 April 2008, 14:38 GMT
Bids are due in next week for the first phase of the Jeddah ring-road project.
Royal Bank of Scotland International expands into UAE

17 April 2008, 14:26 GMT
Royal Bank of Scotland International has expanded its offshore presence, with a new office in Dubai.
Jeddah Headquarters contract to be awarded in May

16 April 2008, 15:15 GMT
The main construction package for The Headquarters building on Jeddah’s corniche is expected to be awarded by the end of May.
Sacodeco wins King Abdullah University contract

16 April 2008, 7:06 GMT
The Saudi Company for Development of Construction and Trading Company (Sacodeco) has won a contract on King Abdullah University of Science & Technology.
Midas Executive tower unveiled for Ajman

15 April 2008, 15:07 GMT
The property development arm of the Mundia Group - M Holding - is to build a 31-storey tower in Ajman.
El-Seif signs joint venture deal with Italy's RDB

15 April 2008, 13:27 GMT
The local El-Seif Group has signed an agreement with Italian firm RDB to set up a joint venture company in the kingdom.
Bids submitted for work on Bahrain's National Assembly

14 April 2008, 13:58 GMT
Two companies have bid for construction work on the National Assembly building in Bahrain.
Kuwait's housing authority prequalifies companies for construction work

14 April 2008, 11:50 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Authority for Housing Care (PAHC) has prequalified 14 companies for construction work in the Ali Sabah al-Salem suburb’s western sector.
Drake & Scull wins contract on Tiara United Towers

13 April 2008, 11:29 GMT
The Dubai-based Drake & Scull International has been awarded the mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) contract for the 47-storey Tiara United Towers located on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai.
Knowledge Economic City signs agreement with Wipro

13 April 2008, 10:04 GMT
Knowledge Economic City (KEC) in Medina has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the India-based IT service provider Wipro. It is the second MoU signed by KEC this month.
Inflation increases pressure for contract model change in Saudi Arabia

11 April 2008, 14:54 GMT
Contractors’ bids are coming in up to 40 per cent higher than clients expect.
Patience key to handling inflation in Saudi Arabia

11 April 2008, 11:37 GMT
With the dollar at historic lows, price rises in the kingdom are set to continue for some time, but could be helped by a slowdown in the global economy.
Jubail land development contracts set to go out to bid

10 April 2008, 10:43 GMT
Bidding is to start on two significant land development packages at Jubail within weeks.
Kuwait University to prequalify local firms for infrastructure work

10 April 2008, 9:38 GMT
Kuwait University has announced it will prequalify a number of local companies for construction work at the $3.5bn its campus in Shadidiyah.
New poll reveals expatatriates blamed for job shortages in Saudi Arabia

9 April 2008, 13:32 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s plan to develop a knowledge-based economy appears vindicated following the results of a survey published by YouGovSiraj, which reveals the majority of Saudis believe the presence of expatriate workers harms their chances of securing employment in the kingdom.
Contract for Riyadh's border fence could be awarded in two months

9 April 2008, 13:06 GMT
The main construction contract for Saudi Arabia’s Northern Border Fence project could be awarded in the next two months, according to a contractor bidding on the project.
Nesma wins King Abdullah University of Science & Technology contract

9 April 2008, 12:22 GMT
The local Nesma & Partners Construction Company has won a construction contract at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST).
Nesma wins Manifa construction contract

8 April 2008, 14:41 GMT
The local Nesma & Partners Contracting Company has won a construction contract on the Manifa heavy oil field.
Northern Border Fence could be awarded in two months

8 April 2008, 14:05 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s Northern Border Fence project could be awarded in the next two months, according to a contractor bidding on the project.
Closing date for bids for Sabah al-Ahmed project extended

7 April 2008, 14:54 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Authority for Housing Care (PAHC) has postponed the closing date for bids for infrastructure work on the multi-billion dollar Sabah al-Ahmed Future City megaproject.
Tenders invited for residential block in Lebanon

7 April 2008, 14:34 GMT
Tenders have been invited for the construction of a residential block in Lebanon’s second largest city, Tripoli, financed by the World Bank.
Bid deadline for Kuwait hospital extended

6 April 2008, 13:14 GMT
The closing date for bids for Kuwait’s Jaber Ahmed al-Jaber al-Sabah hospital has been extended to 26 May.
King Abdullah Economic City signs MoU with DP World

6 April 2008, 10:02 GMT
Emaar, the Economic City, the developer of King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Dubai-based DP World.
Sudair: The $40bn mega city

4 April 2008, 12:22 GMT
The industrial city planned for Sudair will be the largest in the kingdom, dwarfing even King Abdullah Economic City.
Prince Abdulaziz bin Mosaed Economic City: A spur to development

4 April 2008, 12:07 GMT
Despite being launched almost two years ago, little progress has been made on the economic city at Hail. But that could change with the recent signing of an agreement.
Repackaged tenders to be issued for Muscat wastewater project

3 April 2008, 17:28 GMT
Tenders for work on the $1bn Muscat Wastewater Project are due to be issued by the end of April following the decision by Oman Wastewater Services Company (OWSC) to re-package the second phase of work.
Bids submitted for Al-Seef sewerage project

3 April 2008, 15:16 GMT
Four companies have submitted bids for phase two of the Al-Seef sewerage and stormwater drainage scheme in Bahrain.
Jubail contracts to be awarded within weeks

3 April 2008, 13:35 GMT
Six contracts for work at Jubail 2 are due to be awarded in the next two weeks, pending approval from the Finance Ministry and Council of Ministers.
Knowledge Economic City signs deal to establish specialist institutions

2 April 2008, 16:35 GMT
Knowledge Economic City in Medina has signed an memorandum of understanding with the local Technical & Vocational Training Corporation to establish specialised institutions to train Saudis in communications and IT.
Marine works at Sur desalination plant to be complete by August

2 April 2008, 15:56 GMT
Marine works at the Sur desalination plant in Oman are due to be complete in August this year.
Kuwait: The City of Silk

30 March 2008, 9:18 GMT
In 2002, when Dubai-based developer Nakheel announced the Palm Jumeirah project, not only did it launch a major development, but it also raised awareness of the emirate at an international level.
Rule change to raise cost of city building in Saudi Arabia

28 March 2008, 18:16 GMT
Economic city developers face having to increase the number and height of structures.
A welcome development to Kuwait's BOT law

28 March 2008, 15:22 GMT
Changes to Kuwait's build-operate-transfer law should give a much-needed boost to the state's construction industry, but contractors are yet to be convinced.
Saudi Arabia right to plan long term for economic cities

28 March 2008, 14:34 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s six economic cities could be facing a significant and costly redesign if the regulatory authority, the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (Sagia), rolls out fresh building regulations next month. Sagia is making efforts to ensure that cities meet the long-term growth expectations of the kingdom.
Jubail projects to go to bid in April

27 March 2008, 15:17 GMT
A number of contracts for work at Jubail Industrial City in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia are to go out to bid in the next five weeks.
Omran awards Fort Hotel contracts

27 March 2008, 14:05 GMT
The Oman Tourism & Development Company (Omran) has awarded three contracts for its Fort Hotel development, near Muscat.
Arabtec wins $112m Sanctuary Falls contract

26 March 2008, 14:17 GMT
The local Arabtec Construction has been awarded a AED412m ($112m) contract for the construction of 96 resort-style villas at Sanctuary Falls in Dubai.
Kuwait housing authority cuts shortlist for township work

25 March 2008, 12:37 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Authority for Housing Care (PAHC) has cut its shortlist of 91 firms able to bid for three township contracts by more than half.
October start for work on $1bn Dubai health centre

25 March 2008, 12:25 GMT
Construction is due to begin on the WorldCare Wellness Centre in October this year.
Kuwait's housing authority revises township shortlist

24 March 2008, 13:21 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Authority for Housing Care (PAHC) has revised the number of prequalifiers to bid for three township contracts.
Key Jubail contracts expected by year-end

24 March 2008, 12:33 GMT
A number of key contracts at the Jubail Industrial City expansion, known as Jubail 2, are due to be awarded in the the second half of the year.
Sudair masterplan finalised in September

23 March 2008, 12:49 GMT
The concept masterplan for Saudi Arabia’s $40bn Sudair industrial city is expected to be completed in September this year.
Diyar al-Muharraq development to relaunch in June

20 March 2008, 17:28 GMT
Bahrain's multi-billion-dollar off-shore project, Diyar al-Muharraq, is expected to be relaunched in June, after a revision to the original masterplan.
Limitless to release details of Al-Wasl development

19 March 2008, 13:39 GMT
Limitless, the development arm of Dubai World, is set to reveal details of the SR45bn ($12bn) Al-Wasl project next week.
Jacobs buys stake in Saudi Arabia's Zamel & Turbag

19 March 2008, 12:09 GMT
The US’ Jacobs Engineering Group has purchased a 60 per cent stake in the Saudi Arabian firm, Zamel & Turbag Consulting Engineers.
China Railway Group wins Moroccan road contract

18 March 2008, 16:16 GMT
China Railway Group has won a $275m contract to build two highways in Morocco.
Contract for King Abdullah Economic City mall due in April

18 March 2008, 14:37 GMT
The construction contract for the waterfront mall and hotel in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) is expected to be awarded in the next few weeks.
Workforces set to double at Dubai firms

14 March 2008, 18:31 GMT
Leading construction and engineering companies plan to double their Dubai workforces over the next five years, adding to the skills shortage in the emirate.
Abu Dhabi development to provide housing for 200,000

13 March 2008, 13:04 GMT
As urban development being planned in Abu Dhabi could house up to 200,000 residents.
Nakheel reveals Dubai Waterfront city masterplan

12 March 2008, 14:04 GMT
The local developer Nakheel has revealed the masterplan for Waterfront City, which will form the centrepiece of Dubai Waterfront.
Dubai Properties to develop $100bn worth of projects

12 March 2008, 13:37 GMT
Dubai Properties is set to develop $100bn worth of projects over the next 10 to 15 years. Speaking to MEED’s Construction Skills & Labour Resource Management Conference in Dubai on 12 March, Yaqoob al-Zarooni, deputy chief executive officer of Dubai Properties, said the company has planned AED400bn ($108bn) worth of projects.
Jeddah Headquarters contract postponed by two months

11 March 2008, 12:43 GMT
The main construction contract for The Headquarters building in Jeddah corniche has been postponed until April.
Al-Kharafi and China State Construction set to secure Central Bank of Kuwait contract

11 March 2008, 10:56 GMT
The joint venture of local Mohammed Abdulmohsin al-Kharafi & Sons and China State Construction Company has been tipped to secure the contract to build the new Central Bank of Kuwait.
Nine groups to bid for Kuwait hospital contract

10 March 2008, 13:46 GMT
All nine prequalified groups are expected to bid for the KD170m ($636m) contract for the Jaber al-Ahmed al-Sabah hospital in Kuwait, following a pre-tender meeting on 9 March.
Bids for Kuwait's Salmiya Park expected in two months

10 March 2008, 13:27 GMT
Bids for Kuwait’s Salmiya Park rail network are expected within two months, following an in-house review by the client, the Public Authority for Agricultural Affairs & Fish Resources (PAAFR).
King Abdullah University awards facade contract

9 March 2008, 13:00 GMT
United Arab Aluminium Company (UAAC), a subsidiary of the local Construction Products Holding Company (CPC), has won an SR120m ($32m) contract to install aluminium and glass facades at King Abdullah University for Science & Technology (KAUST), near Jeddah.
Kuwait Oil Company invites bids for two contracts

9 March 2008, 12:42 GMT
The Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) has invited local contractors to bid for two new construction projects.
PAHC issues tender for works at Saab Abdullah Housing City project

9 March 2008, 8:00 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Authority for Housing Care (PAHC) has invited bids for the construction, completion and maintenance of asphalt layer surface works and related works for the Saad Abdullah Housing city project.
Sama Dubai to develop $500m towers project in Jeddah

7 March 2008, 16:55 GMT
Sama Dubai, part of the government-owned Dubai Holding, is to enter the Saudi Arabian market for the first time, developing a major tower project in Jeddah.
The 100 biggest companies in the Middle East in 2008

7 March 2008, 13:04 GMT
Financial services firms make up 40 per cent of MEED’s list of the 100 largest listed companies, with real estate and telecoms businesses joint second.
Talks under way to establish tall tower guidelines

6 March 2008, 10:14 GMT
Talks are being held in Dubai to establish guidelines that will ensure greater integration between tall towers and urban design.
Maaden invites bids for residential village

6 March 2008, 9:31 GMT
Companies have been invited to bid for the residential village package at the Ras al-Zour industrial complex being developed by Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Maaden).
Contract due for The Headquarters in Jeddah

5 March 2008, 13:52 GMT
The main construction contract for a 52-storey office building in the north corniche area of Jeddah, known as The Headquarters, is due to be awarded in March.
Bids due for Jeddah's tallest tower

5 March 2008, 12:57 GMT
Bids are to be submitted in April to build what will be the tallest building in Jeddah, in the west of Saudi Arabia.
Admac secures $32m infrastructure contract

4 March 2008, 14:52 GMT
Abu Dhabi Maintenance & Construction Company (Admac) has been awarded an AED119m ($32m) water network development contract on Abu Dhabi island.
Work starts on racing grandstand in Dubai

4 March 2008, 14:21 GMT
Construction on the main grandstand of the Meydan Racecourse in Dubai has begun.
Bids to be submitted on Riyadh's North-South railway

3 March 2008, 15:19 GMT
Bids are due to be submitted by the end of the month for a communications contract on the North-South railway in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia set to award fence package

3 March 2008, 14:44 GMT
One of the contracts for the Northern Border Security fence contract is expected to be awarded in the next three weeks.
Two contractors in running for Riyadh infrastructure project

2 March 2008, 11:21 GMT
Saudi Arabia’s Public Pension Agency (PPA) is expected to award the first-phase infrastructure contract for the Information Technology & Communications Complex (ITCC) by the end of March.
Kuwait housing authority launches three new township contracts

2 March 2008, 9:41 GMT
The Public Authority for Housing Care (PAHC) has issued to bid three packages covering the construction, completion and maintenance of houses and public buildings at the Saad Abdulla township.
Arabtec in line for $800m contract for Burj al-Alam tower

29 February 2008, 18:01 GMT
The local Arabtec is the front-runner for the main construction contract on the Burj al-Alam tower in Business Bay, after entering exclusive talks with the client.
Riyadh holds talks over sustainable city concept

29 February 2008, 17:26 GMT
Saudi Arabia is joining the trend for environmentally friendly development, with talks being held over a sustainable city concept for one of the kingdom’s six economic cities.
Al-Arrab Contracting Company

29 February 2008, 15:12 GMT
Director Samer Arafa explains how the company is stepping up its international expansion plans.
Prices soar as investors seek stability

29 February 2008, 14:11 GMT
Despite the US-led economic sanctions, the cost of real estate in Tehran is rising rapidly as a lack of confidence in the stock market drives investors to the sector.
High land prices limit opportunities in Kuwait

29 February 2008, 12:40 GMT
With most land outside of the densely packed urban areas owned by state energy provider Kuwait Oil Company, prices are reaching record levels, forcing investors to look elsewhere.
Al-Arrab Contracting Company: MEED Assessment

29 February 2008, 12:10 GMT
In the future, it will not be a lack of business acumen that will stifle the company’s ambition
Q&A: Samer Arafa, director, Al-Arrab Contracting Company

29 February 2008, 12:05 GMT
The construction company wants to be one of the largest in the Middle East, as well as building its reputation in Europe and Asia
Nakheel signs theme park deal for Palm Jebel Ali

28 February 2008, 10:57 GMT
Dubai-based property company Nakheel is to develop four theme parks on Palm Jebel Ali, following the signing of a memorandum of understanding with the US’ Busch Entertainment Corporation.
Admac awarded $200m sewage contract

28 February 2008, 8:35 GMT
The Abu Dhabi Maintenance & Construction Company (Admac) has secured a AED723m ($197m) contract for the construction of sewage works in Abu Dhabi.
Parsons Brinckerhoff signs on for Burj al-Alam

27 February 2008, 14:40 GMT
US-based Parsons Brinckerhoff has been named project manager for the Burj al-Alam tower in Dubai.
Saudi Arabia partners US technology giants

27 February 2008, 11:13 GMT
US technology giants IBM and Microsoft have signed seperate partnership deals to carry out technology research in Saudi Arabia.
Fresh bids for North Town construction

26 February 2008, 15:15 GMT
A second round of bids is expected to be submitted in March for preliminary construction work on the North Town project at Budaiya in Bahrain.
Lamar Towers bids due in March

26 February 2008, 14:22 GMT
Bids for the main construction package on the Lamar Towers project in Saudi Arabia will be submitted next month.
Lifestyle City awards Bin Ladin infrastructure contract

25 February 2008, 8:01 GMT
Dubai Lifestyle City has awarded a AED49m ($13.3m) infrastructure contract to Saudi-based Bin Ladin Contracting.
Dubai Lifestyle City awards infrastructure contract to Bin Ladin

25 February 2008, 7:59 GMT
Dubai Lifestyle City has awarded a AED49m ($13.3m) infrastructure contract to Saudi-based Bin Ladin Contracting.
Nakheel acquires stake in Mexican resort

25 February 2008, 7:52 GMT
Dubai-based Nakheel Hotels has acquired a 50 per cent stake in the Mexican resort, One&Only Palmilla in Los Cabos.
Kuwait ministry invites hospital construction bids

24 February 2008, 10:40 GMT
Kuwait’s Ministry of Public Works has invited the nine prequalified groups to bid for the long-awaited contract to build the Jaber al-Ahmed al-Sabah hospital.
Masdar appoints US firm for headquarters

24 February 2008, 9:49 GMT
Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) has appointed the US’ Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill (AS+GG) architecture firm to design its headquarters in its $22bn zero-emission city development, near Abu Dhabi's international airport.
Kingdom set to approve Mile High tower in Jeddah

22 February 2008, 18:13 GMT
Tenders expected within six months to build 1,600-metre skyscaper.
The revival of Sudair

22 February 2008, 12:07 GMT
In a bid to relieve congestion in Riyadh and boost efforts to diversify the Saudi economy, the government is launching the kingdom’s largest industrial city.
Bids expected for Yanbu housing project

21 February 2008, 14:39 GMT
Bids are to be submitted for a housing project in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia on 5 March.
Bahrain considering $1bn leisure development

21 February 2008, 13:18 GMT
Plans are being drawn up for a $1bn leisure city in the Bahrain to rival Disneyland.
Scott Wilson Group awarded Durrat Al-Bahrain contract

20 February 2008, 13:52 GMT
The UK’s Scott Wilson Group has been appointed by Durrat Al-Bahrain to develop the masterplan for a golf precinct, as part of its $6bn island development.
Bids due for Economic City water park

20 February 2008, 13:31 GMT
Bids for a new project in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) in Saudi Arabia are expected within the next two weeks.
Sungwon wins Dubai Sports City contract

19 February 2008, 13:21 GMT
South Korea’s Sungwon Corporation has won a AED300m ($82m) construction contract for a hotel apartment building in Dubai Sports City.
Ajman development announces contractors

19 February 2008, 6:18 GMT
Ajman’s Escape equestrian community has appointed several international contractors for its 800,000 square metre development.
New UAE cabinet announced - with seven new members

18 February 2008, 11:30 GMT
Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al-Nahyan, president of the UAE, has endorsed the new UAE cabinet.
Al-Sarh wins Dubai Sports City contract

18 February 2008, 10:17 GMT
Dubai-based Al-Sarh Contracting has been awarded a AED55.5m ($15m) contract for the construction of Champions Tower 2.
Kuwait issues second tender for Future City

17 February 2008, 10:48 GMT
Kuwait’s Public Authority for Housing Welfare has issued the second tender on its multi-billion dollar Sabah al-Ahmed Future City megaproject.
Jumeirah Village's Mulberry Mansions sold out in eight hours

17 February 2008, 10:04 GMT
The local Al-Faraa Properties' Mulberry Mansions development has sold out in eight hours.The AED95m ($26m) townhouse project, located in Jumeirah Village, is expected to be completed by the third quarter 2009.
Riyadh develops masterplan for $40bn Sudair industrial city

15 February 2008, 16:00 GMT
Up to $40bn will be invested in an industrial city in Saudi Arabia, according to its backers the Saudi Industrial Property Authority, making it one of the largest projects ever in the region.
Key deals for Saudi's Jubail Industrial City expansion to be awarded

15 February 2008, 15:42 GMT
Work on the expansion of Jubail Industrial City, known as Jubail 2, is accelerating, with more than 40 contracts to be awarded this year, including several key deals in the coming month.
Prequalified groups announced for Kuwait hospital

14 February 2008, 15:54 GMT
Nine international groups have been prequalified for the main construction package on Kuwait’s biggest hospital.
New tower announced for Adnec development

14 February 2008, 15:50 GMT
The Abu Dhabi-based Finance House is to build its headquarters in Capital Centre, the development planned by Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Company (Adnec).
Al-Muhaidib wins Yanbu housing contract

13 February 2008, 15:46 GMT
The local Al-Muhaidib Contracting Company has been awarded a SR278m ($74m) contract to build 240 public housing units in the western city of Yanbu on the Red Sea.
Hyder designing skyscraper twice as tall as Burj Dubai

13 February 2008, 4:33 GMT
The UK’s Hyder Consulting is designing a structure that will be twice as tall as the Burj Dubai, according to a consultant involved with the project - making it by far the tallest tower in the world.
Qatar-Abu Dhabi causeway to cost $13bn

12 February 2008, 17:09 GMT
The proposed Qatar-Abu Dhabi causeway will cost $13bn to develop, according to a local consultant.
Nakheel calls for industry modernisation

11 February 2008, 14:56 GMT
The UAE could reduce its labour requirements by as much as a quarter if it modernised its approach to construction, according to a leading UAE developer.
Al-Raha sea wall completed

10 February 2008, 7:56 GMT
Aldar Properties’ Al Raha Beach development has reached a milestone, following the completion of the marine sea wall in the eastern precinct.
Masdar City breaks ground

10 February 2008, 7:12 GMT
Abu Dhabi’s Masdar Initiative has broken ground for Masdar City, the world’s first zero-carbon, zero-waste, car-free city.
Dubai to launch megacity in March

8 February 2008, 16:20 GMT
Sheikh Mohammed commissions UK architect to design project similar to Kuwait’s City of Silk
Seven prequalify for Bayan Palace contract

7 February 2008, 6:27 GMT
Seven companies have been prequalified for construction work at Bayan Palace, the main palace of the Emir of Kuwait.
Ihlas signs MoU with Saudi companies

7 February 2008, 5:50 GMT
Turkey’s Ihlas Holding has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Saudi Arabia’s Tanami Holding and Azmeel International to cooperate on construction and energy projects in the kingdom.
Piling complete on Bahrain's Nasmah tower

6 February 2008, 13:52 GMT
Piling work has been completed on the Nasmah tower in Bahrain, with construction on the foundations for the main building due to begin in the near future.
Saudi Freyssinet wins Economic City contract

6 February 2008, 6:09 GMT
Saudi Freyssinet has been awarded a SR348m ($95m) contract to develop commercial buildings in King Abdullah Economic City, on the Red Sea coast.
Bids for Subiya Causeway due by September

5 February 2008, 18:04 GMT
Bids for the latest design of the 36-kilometre Subiya Causeway connecting Kuwait City with Subiya could be called for by the end of the summer, according to the consultant on the project.
Bids received for Bahrain sanitation services

3 February 2008, 9:18 GMT
Four bids have been submitted for the sanitation engineering services contract for Bahrain’s national master plan.
Cisco wins Saudi economic city infrastructure contract

3 February 2008, 9:11 GMT
US-based Cisco has won the contract to design the information and communications technology infrastructure for Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC).
Contractor survey 2008 - Saudi Arabia: Smaller firms struggle to compete in Saudi

1 February 2008, 12:29 GMT
As Riyadh attempts to diversify its economy with a series of megaprojects, contract awards are being dominated by local giants Saudi Oger and Saudi Binladin Group.
Bids submitted for Bander Al Seef in Bahrain

31 January 2008, 9:32 GMT
Two sets of bids have been submitted for the Bander Al Seef project in Bahrain.
Ahmed Mansoor wins Bahrain Bay contract

31 January 2008, 9:28 GMT
Local company Ahmed Mansoor al-Aali has won an infrastructure contract on the Bahrain Bay development.
Ahmed Mansoor al-Aali wins parliamentary contract

30 January 2008, 7:07 GMT
Local company Ahmed Mansoor al-Aali has been awarded a contract for the National Assembly building for the reclamation of land and construction of quay walls.
Kuwaiti firm secures Al Areen contract

30 January 2008, 5:55 GMT
KEO International has been appointed lead project manager, construction manager and supervising engineer for the Downtown Al-Areen project in Bahrain.
Future Energy Summit attracts over 11,000 visitors

29 January 2008, 15:11 GMT
The inaugural World Future Energy Summit attracted over 11,000 visitors, more than three times the expected figure, according to its host Masdar, the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company.
Omran receives bids for three hotel projects

29 January 2008, 9:40 GMT
Oman Tourism & Development Company (Omran) is pushing ahead with its expansion plans, following the submission of bids for the consultancy contracts on three hotel projects.
Alkhodari Sons Company makes low bid for Ministry of Haj building

23 January 2008, 14:55 GMT
Local contractor Abdullah Abdul Mohsen Alkhodari Sons Company has submitted the low -bid for a contract to build a Ministry of Haj building in Mecca.
Abu Dhabi contractor urges rethink to battle inflation

23 January 2008, 14:03 GMT
Initiatives must be introduced to the UAE construction sector to alleviate risk from inflation, according to a leading real estate executive.
Five bid for Mecca-Medina rail link

22 January 2008, 12:20 GMT
Five companies are bidding for the $6bn Mecca-Medina Rail link.
Russians win North-South railway contract

22 January 2008, 8:26 GMT
The state-owned Russian Railways has won an $800m contract to build a 520-kilometre railway line in Saudi Arabia.
Barwa to build labour camp

21 January 2008, 13:30 GMT
Local construction firm Barwa Real Estate is to build accommodation for 50,000 labourers in Qatar
Larsen wins Kuwait reactor contract

21 January 2008, 10:04 GMT
India’s Larsen & Toubro has secured a $421m contract from Kuwait National Petroleum Company (KNPC) to manufacture and supply reactors for its clean fuel project.
Iran and Syria strengthen ties

20 January 2008, 11:08 GMT
Iran is to increase investment into the Syrian construction sector, according to the country’s housing and urban development minister.
Al-Arrab wins university contract

20 January 2008, 10:55 GMT
The local Al Arrab Contracting Company has been awarded eight construction packages for the Umm Al-Qura University complex in Mecca.
Construction costs set to increase by 20 per cent this year

18 January 2008, 13:16 GMT
Construction costs in GCC markets are set to rise by 20 per cent in 2008, according to market obser-vers, as demand for materials and labour outstrips supply.
Gulf Consult wins Kuwaiti road contract

17 January 2008, 12:19 GMT
Local firm Gulf Consult has won the contract to provide consultancy services for a road system in Ahmadi.
Downtown awarded Al-Areen contract

17 January 2008, 6:12 GMT
Local contractor Downtown Construction Company has been awarded a $11.5m contract for the development of the Downtown Al-Areen infrastructure.
Downtown infrastructure contract awarded

17 January 2008, 6:06 GMT
Local contractor, Downtown Construction Company has been awarded a $11.5m contract for the development of the Downtown Al Areen infrastructure.
Dubai Maritime City launches berthing project

16 January 2008, 14:51 GMT
Dubai Maritime City is to launch the first phase of its new marina berth project to coincide with the 16th Dubai International Boat Show.
KEO completes two projects

16 January 2008, 14:19 GMT
KEO International Consultants has completed two local projects with a combined value of $70m.
Kuwait prequalifies contractors for housing projects

15 January 2008, 11:11 GMT
Kuwait's Public Authority for Housing Welfare (PAHW) has pre-qualified 29 contractors for the construction of a series of new residential town projects.
Sorouh links up with Tabreed for district in Abu Dhabi

15 January 2008, 10:51 GMT
Local developer Sorouh Real Estate has announced a joint venture with Tabreed to provide district cooling to parts of Sorouh’s Shams development in Abu Dhabi.
Makan ties up Hill

13 January 2008, 14:18 GMT
US-based Hill International has announced plans to create a real estate development firm in partnership with Makan Capital Group, an Abu Dhabi merchant banking and investment management firm.
Deyaar to build twin towers in Dubai's Business Bay

13 January 2008, 14:12 GMT
The local Deyaar Development plans to build a AED1.5bn ($408m) twin tower project at Business Bay in Dubai.
Oil revenues drive Tehran budget boost

11 January 2008, 15:07 GMT
Tehran will increase government spending by 17 per cent in 2008, on the back of high oil revenues.
Strabag lands Libya infrastructure contract

9 January 2008, 5:29 GMT
Austrian construction company Strabag has secured a EUR434m ($663m) contract to modernise sections of infrastructure in parts of Libya's capital, Tripoli.
Drake & Scull secures further Kuwait contract

8 January 2008, 11:16 GMT
Drake & Scull has won a $33m contract to provide mechanical, electrical and plumbing services for the College of Basic Education's Boys Campus, at Ardiya in Kuwait
Emaar awards key deals for Jeddah development

6 January 2008, 13:41 GMT
Emaar Middle East, the property development arm of Dubai-based Emaar Properties, has awarded contracts to two companies - Al Taafuf and the Saudi Building & Development Management Company - to develop infrastructure for the company’s Jeddah Gate project.
Jafza signs with Rakisa to manage economic city

6 January 2008, 13:36 GMT
Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority (Jafza) International, the global free zone operations arm of Economic Zones World, part of Dubai World, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Saudi Arabia’s Rakisa Holding for the development and management of Rakisa Economic City, at Hail.

MEEDChristopher Sell

MEED
Christopher Sell