By continuing to use the site you agree to our Privacy & Cookies policy

MEED
Jul 2008 Online Content

View all stories from this issue.

  • 300,000 traffic violations in 3 months

    Dubai police issued more than 300,000 traffic fines from April to June, 2008. The offences, including speeding and jumping red signal, were caught on radar, said the police.

  • 50 taxi drivers strike in Dubai

    About 50 taxi drivers took part in a strike on Wednesday in Dubai, according to the emirate's Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority. The RTA said that the drivers stopped work for only one hour and the protest was the work of a 'limited number of drivers' that 'incited and abetted their colleagues', Gulf News reported.

  • A challenging tide of faith

    Islam is the most dynamic religious movement of our times, but there is more to its ascent than oil and economics.

  • A380 update. Emirates A380 touches down in Dubai

    The Emirates A380 landed in Dubai at about 5.50pm. AME Info was on board, doing a live link up for our audio site and Phil Blizzard said the landing was smooth. Overall, he said the plane was comfortable in all three classes, which he tried during the flight, especially the business and first classes. Emirates must now ready the plane for its first commercial flight in two days time to New York.

  • A380 update: Emirates A380 is Hamburg's pride

    During a special reception held at the Hamburg Rathaus Town Hall, on the eve of the handover of the Emirates Airbus A380, quests were told by Heinrich Lieser, CEO, Hamburg Marketing, that 'The citizens of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg will have their hearts filled with pride as the delivery of the first Airbus A380 to Emirates is made on the banks of the River Elbe.'

  • A380 update: Emirates A380 lands in Dubai today

    Emirates flies its first A380 back from Germany to Dubai today, taking off at 11am UAE time. It arrives in Dubai around 5pm. It then makes its first commercial flight a few days later, flying to New York on 1st August. This is the first of 58 A380s on order, with the second due to be delivered late September. One of three configurations bought by Emirates, the first flight has seats for 489 passengers. AME Info's broadcast team is on the delivery flight from Germany, and will be reporting liv

  • A380 update: Emirates gets its first Airbus A380

    Emirates Airline took delivery of its first A380 plane today during a handover ceremony in Germany with Airbus. The plane, which will make it's inaugural flight from Dubai to New York on 1st August, has 489 seats - 14 first class suites, 76 business and 399 economy. It is one of three configurations that will eventually make up Emirates fleet of 58 A380s, making it the largest customer for the aircraft. To date, Airbus has 17 customers for the A380 super-jumbo, with 202 planes on order.

  • A380 update: Emirates takeoff from Hamburg

    The Airbus A380 has taken off from Hamburg on the delivery flight to Dubai. The aircraft left the runway to applause from the passengers inside and watched by a large crowd of onlookers. The plane's estimated arrival time in Dubai is 5.40pm local time.

  • A380 update: Emirates to add new German routes

    The Chairman and CEO of Emirates, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, said today that he plans to increase the number of flights the airline currently makes to Germany. Speaking at the handover ceremony of the Airbus A380 in Hamburg, he told attendees that Emirates hopes to soon add Berlin and Stuttgart. He said also that the A380 was a greener aircraft, adding that on the routes it flies Emirates will save 500,000 litres of fuel per plane because of the efficiency of the engines.

  • A380 update: Hamburg a buzz with Emirates Airbus A380

    Summer has arrived with a buzz in the waterfront city of Hamburg and it's not just the dragonflies skimming across the waterways or the motors' of the water taxis. Bands might be buzzing in the numerous festivals on the streets of this European maritime centre, but the biggest buzz right now is in the aviation sector. This will happen at 10am (midday UAE time) on Monday 28th when more than 400 VIPs, along with 40 Middle East media persons, will witness a historic moment with the handing over

  • Abu Dhabi air traffic up by 38.6%

    Abu Dhabi Airports Company has announced a 38.6% growth in passenger traffic at the Abu Dhabi International Airport for the first half of 2008. Cargo handled has increased by 15.8% at 172,762 tons, with aircraft movements up at 16.8%.

  • Abu Dhabi airport closed for repairs

    Abu Dhabi International Airport is closing for 12 hours today between 2.15am to 2.15pm due to maintenance work on the runway. A team has been assigned to re-asphalt a minor crack found on the side of the runway. A total of 90 flights will either be rescheduled or cancelled, according to Gulf News, and 80% of the affected passenger shave been contacted directly through travel agents, phone or SMS.

  • Abu Dhabi airport to close for runway repairs

    Abu Dhabi International Airport will close for 12 hours next week due to maintenance work needed on its runway. The airport will be closed to all air traffic between 02:15am until 14:15 on Tuesday July 22, said Abu Dhabi Airports Company, the owner-operator of the airport. 'Having identified an abrasion in the runway, ADAC has taken the decision that a re-asphalting of a small section of the airport's only airstrip is essential and is to be conducted early next week,' said Massimiliano Dosi,

  • Abu Dhabi airport work completed

    Abu Dhabi Airports Company said essential maintenance work was completed at Abu Dhabi International Airport at 07:00 am this morning (Tuesday), only four hours after it commenced. The airport was fully operational from this time. ADAC worked closely with all airlines involved to minimise any delays to scheduled services and return to full operations, according to a statement.

  • Abu Dhabi calls off smelter plan

    Rio Tinto Group said $3bn smelter plans in Abu Dhabi is 'dead' after the UAE decided to use its natural gas in more-profitable industries, Bloomberg has reported. Middle Eastern nations are seen to use their gas in the chemical, fertiliser and liquefied-natural-gas industries to benefit more from their reserves.

  • Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank profits up 34 per cent

    Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB) has reported a 34 per cent increase in profits for the three months to the end of June, driven by a 45 per cent increase in fee income.

  • Abu Dhabi enjoys 38 per cent increase in airport passengers

    Abu Dhabi Airports Company (Adac) has revealed a 38.6 per cent increase in passenger numbers for the first half of 2008.

  • Abu Dhabi launches road projects

    Abu Dhabi is planning major road projects to support developmental activity on the mainland, especially in Al Gharbia (the Western Region), reported Gulf News. The project includes the reconstruction of the Mafraq Interchange, which is about 30 kilometres from Abu Dhabi City and serves as a gateway for motorists from Dubai and Al Ain to Al Gharbia.

  • Abu Dhabi looks for partners on Western Region highway

    Abu Dhabi’s Department of Transport (DoT) has invited companies to prequalify for a 25-year concession to design, build, finance and operate the Mafraq-Ghweifat highway as a public-private partnership with the government.

  • Abu Dhabi market benefits from speculation by retail investors

    The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) gained 2.5 per cent over the past week after retail investors pushed up the price of a handful of stocks.

  • Abu Dhabi selects Al-Ahmadiah Hip Hing as contractor Masdar City

    The joint venture of the local/Hong Kong Al-Ahmadiah Hip Hing has been selected as the contractor for the first phase of the $22bn Masdar City project in Abu Dhabi.

  • Abu Dhabi to invest $200bn in core sector

    Abu Dhabi is planning to invest up to $200bn on infrastructure projects to cater to the needs of its growing population, the state-run Emirates News Agency (WAM) quoted Abdulraman Al-Tassan, chief executive of RAKAA Properties, as saying. He added the manufacturing sector was projected to continue to grow as mega projects in heavy and light industries, foodstuff industries and other non-oil manufacturing industries were launched in the emirate. The industrial boom, coupled with tremendous inv

  • Abu Dhabi to service region's navies

    UAE-based Abu Dhabi Ship Building has signed a deal with the UK's BVT Service Fleet to form a joint maritime company to service GCC naval fleets. The new firm, which has yet to be named, will operate from Abu Dhabi.

  • Abu Dhabi to set up airport for private jets

    Abu Dhabi Airports Company (Adac) says it will establish the Middle East’s first dedicated airport for executive jets.

  • Action Hotels and Accor open Aussie hotel

    Kuwait-based Action Hotels and Accor Hospitality have completed the development of their first partnered hotel outside the GCC with the official opening of Ibis Glen Waverley in Melbourne, Australia. The development is the first of a number of hotel projects that Action Hotels is currently planning for the Australian market including other projects for Melbourne and the construction of a 314-room hotel in downtown Brisbane.

  • ADAC gets service certified

    The Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) has received the Airports Council International 'Service Quality Assured' certification. The ACI Service Quality Assured Certification is based on annual results of the overall satisfaction of international passengers. The credit went to the Abu Dhabi International Airport's service quality management system for having met industry best practices.

  • ADBIC to build $100m rod plant

    Bahrain-based Midal Cables and Abu Dhabi Basic Industries Corporation have formed a joint venture to set up a $100m aluminium-rod plant in Taweelah, Abu Dhabi. The plant will be ready to receive the first batch of molten metal from the EMAL smelter and commence commercial production in 2010.

  • Adco sets Sas field development bid deadline

    Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations (Adco) has set a deadline of 18 August for the submission of commercial bids on its multi-billion-dollar Sahil, Asab and Shah (Sas) full-field development.

  • Adnoc and ConocoPhillips sign sour gas deal

    Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) and US oil major ConocoPhillips have signed the long-awaited project agreement to develop sour gas reserves from Abu Dhabi’s onshore Shah field.

  • ADTA opens Sydney office

    The Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) has opened a representation office in Sydney, Australia as part of its awareness campaign. Its initial destination awareness campaign will focus heavily on the country's travel wholesalers with industry leaders being invited to Abu Dhabi to sample the destination first-hand.

  • Agility acquires Danish forwarder

    Kuwait-based Agility has 100% acquired the Danish, CF Geologistics A/S, a Copenhagen-based forwarding specialist offering tailor-made air and ocean freight solutions. CF Geologistics has been acting as a joint venture partner and agent for Agility since 2004, with Agility having a 29% stake in the company.

  • Agility joint venture wins US Air Force contract

    A joint venture led by Agility Defense & Government Services (DGS) has won four fuel-management contracts with the US Air Force worth $8.6m over five years.

  • Agility transports for Equate

    Agility has won the tender to provide 50% of Equate Petrochemical Company's land distribution operations in the Middle East beginning this year, The Peninsula has reported. Agility will provide the services for five years.

  • Agility wins contract in Australia

    Agility Project Logistics has won a global project logistics contract for the new 630 megawatt Darling Downs Power Station Project to be located in Darling Downs Region of Queensland, Australia. CH2M Hill will undertake the engineering, procurement, and construction activities on the $750m gas fired power station for Origin Energy. Agility will have responsibility for all global air, ocean and inland transportation and related logistics services from the delivery points, primarily in Asia, Eu

  • Air Arabia budget hotel underway

    Air Arabia has begun construction of its 300-room budget hotel at Sharjah Airport. Gustav Pegel & Sohn has been appointed as general contractor for the hotel, eyeing completion in January 2010. Rotana Hotels will manage this property under their innovative Centro by Rotana brand.

  • Air Arabia hits 10 million passenger mark

    Air Arabia, the largest low-cost carrier in the Middle East, has announced that it has flown more than 10 million passengers since its launch in October 2003. The carrier passed the mark at the end of June 2008. In the first half of 2008, Air Arabia carried more than 1.6 million passengers, an increase of 33% compared to 1.2 million passengers in the corresponding period last year.

  • Air Arabia starts early check-in

    Air Arabia has launched an early check-in procedure for all of its passengers, which allows them to check-in up to 24 hours before their flight. The dedicated counters and early check-in procedure are available for flights taking off from Sharjah International Airport only.

  • Air Arabia to fly to Ukraine

    Air Arabia, the largest low-cost carrier in the Middle East, will introduce service to Kiev, Ukraine, in October 2008. The launch of this new destination reflects Air Arabia's growing expansion into the Eastern European market, according to a statement by the carrier. In addition to Kiev, Air Arabia also serves Istanbul, Turkey, and Yerevan, Armenia, in Eastern Europe.

  • Air India to launch Kuwait routes

    Low cost carrier Air India Express will launch a range of routes to the subcontinent from Kuwait. The first service, from Calicut via Cochin, will arrive in Kuwait on 14 July. The carrier will also operate a twice-weekly route to Mangalore.

  • AirBlue to launch service in UAE

    Pakistani airline AirBlue plans to launch service from Sharjah International Airport in the UAE to the northern cities of Pakistan from August 14, reported Khaleej Times. The airline plans two daily flights from Sharjah to Lahore, Islamabad, Faisalabad and Peshawar.

  • Al Diar Hotels offers promotion

    Al Diar Hotels, owned and managed by Abu Dhabi National Hotels has announced a joint summer promotion with Etihad Airways. From 6th July to 31st August 2008, all guests checking in at any property of Al Diar Hotels will be automatically entered into a daily raffle draw to win Etihad Airways tickets to 43 destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. They will also benefit from special summer discounts of 50% off normal room tariffs.

  • Al Habtoor Group buys business jet

    Al Habtoor Group has purchased an Embraer Lineage 1000 aircraft which will be managed by Abu Dhabi-based Royal Jet, a luxury flight services company. The Embraer Lineage 1000 is an ultra large business jet designed to seat up to 19 passengers. The aircraft has a range of 4,200 nautical miles, enough to fly directly from the UAE to London and can fly at 41,000 feet, according to a statement.

  • Al Qasba visitor numbers up

    Sharjah-based tourist destination, Al Qasba, has recorded half yearly visitor numbers of 250,000, up 186% on the same period in 2007. Officials believe that the increase in visitors is due to the centre's recent facelift.

  • Al Rajhi reports 8 per cent profit growth

    Saudi Arabia’s Al Rajhi bank has reported profits of SR1.74bn ($465m) for the second quarter of the year, an 8.2 per cent rise on the same period last year.

  • Al Waha buys 49% stake in GMMOS Group

    Al Waha Maritime, a subsidiary of Waha Capital, has acquired a 49% stake in GMMOS Group. The acquisition follows an agreement between Waha Capital with private equity firm Abraaj Capital. GMMOS Group is an Abraaj Capital portfolio company and aN industrial group operating in the marine, oil & gas and crane-hire sectors across the Gulf and Caspian markets. Under the agreement, Al Waha Maritime had acquired 40% of the strategic investment from investors exiting the co-investment vehicle, and th

  • Alafco posts KD7.7m profit

    Kuwait-based Aviation Lease and Finance Company (Alafco) has reported a 37% increase in its profits, reaching KD7.7m in nine months, for the fiscal year which started on 1 October 2007. Alafco has orders for 66 new Airbus and Boeing aircraft with a total value of $9bn. The company currently has aircraft lease agreements with Wataniya and Oman Air.

  • Algeria launches long-awaited oil licensing round

    Algeria has launched a long-awaited oil and gas licensing round, the first since the adoption of the controversial Hydrocarbons Law two years ago.

  • Algeria signs up Snamprogetti and Chiyoda for Arzew plant

    The Italian/ Japanese team of Snamprogetti and Chiyoda Corporation signed on 26 July the contract with state energy company Sonatrach to build the new liquefied gas (LNG) plant at Arzew in the northwest.

  • ALGERIA TENDER: Airliners

    Supply of new airliners, equipment and associated services. Closing date: 3 September 2008

  • ALGERIA TENDER: Gas pipeline EPC

    Provision of EPC services for a 48-inch gas pipeline. Closing date: 24 August 2008

  • ALGERIA TENDER: Tri-phasic flow meter systems

    Supply of tri-phasic flow meter systems. Closing date: 7 August 2008

  • ALGERIA TENDER: UPS unit

    Setting up of a static uninterruptible power supply (UPS) unit. Closing date: 26 October 2008

  • Al-Habtoor signs with Abyaar

    The local Al-Habtoor Engineering Enterprises has been awarded the AED740m ($201m) contract to build two residential towers in the Acacia Avenues project in Dubai.

  • Al-Habtoor takes another major Abu Dhabi contract

    Local company Al-Habtoor Engineering Enterprises has been awarded a AED2.25bn ($613m) contract to build a mixed-use development in Abu Dhabi.

  • Al-Hani wins Bayan Palace conference centre contract

    The local Al-Hani Construction & Trading Company has been selected for the conference centre contract at Bayan Palace in Kuwait.

  • Al-Kharafi bids low for Al-Tameer project

    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).

  • Al-Kharafi bids low for Kuwait drainage network

    The local Mohammed Abdulmohsin Al-Kharafi & Sons is the low bidder for the phase 10 renovation of the drainage network in the Bayan area of Kuwait.

  • Al-Redwan set to win King Abdullah Economic City contract

    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.

  • Al-Redwan tipped to secure Yanbu villas contract

    The local Al-Redwan Contracting Company is set to be awarded the construction contract for villas at Yanbu in Saudi Arabia.

  • Al-Redwan wins King Abdullah Economic City villa contract

    The local Al-Redwan has been awarded a contract to construct villas in King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) in Saudi Arabia.

  • Alstom signs Tunisia power plant deal

    France’s Alstom has signed the contract to build a 400MW combined cycle power plant at Ghannouch in southern Tunisia.

  • Alstom wins $3bn contract in Saudi

    French engineering group Alstom has won a 1.9-billion-euro ($3bn) contract to build a plant in Saudi Arabia, reported Reuters. The company said delivery of the main elements is set for 2010.

  • Alstom wins contract to expand Shuaiba power plant

    France’s Alstom has signed a letter of intent with Saudi Electricity Company for a Eur1.9bn ($3bn) turnkey contract to build a thermal power plant in the kingdom.

  • Amman pledges to continue subsidising bread

    The Jordanian government will continue to subsidise bread for the forseeable future, according to Minister of State for Media Affairs and Communications Nasser Judeh.

  • Amman raises fuel prices

    Jordan has raised fuel prices for the sixth time this year as it struggles to deal with the high cost of imported oil.

  • Amman sells electricity distribution companies

    Jordan's Kingdom Electricity Company is to buy the government's stakes in Electricity Distribution Company (Edco) and Irbid District Electricity Company (Ideco).

  • Amman to give control of Sudan investment to private firm

    Jordan’s Agriculture Ministry will soon appoint a private sector company to manage its substantial investment in farmland in Sudan.

  • Angsana Spa ties up with DSS

    Angsana Spa is offering special-price packages in tie up with has teamed up with the Dubai Summer Surprises. The Angsana Spa branches are located in Dubai Marina, Arabian Ranches, The Montgomerie, and Emirates Hills. DSS has signed up 25 spas with the DSS 2008 Spa Packages.

  • Arabtec awarded Silverene contract at Dubai Marina

    The local Arabtec Construction has been awarded the AED638m ($174m) to build the Silverene Towers at Dubai Marina.

  • Arabtec posts profit increase of 191 per cent

    Dubai-based Arabtec Holding has announced a consolidated profit of AED505m ($138m) for the first half of 2008.

  • Aramco awards Manifa oil deal to Snamprogetti

    Saudi Aramco has formally awarded an estimated $1.8bn deal to Italy’s Snamprogetti on its 900,000-barrel-a-day (b/d) Manifa oil field development.

  • Aramco awards Manifa oil deal to Snamprogetti

    Saudi Aramco has formally awarded an estimated $1.8bn deal to Italy’s Snamprogetti on its 900,000-barrel-a-day (b/d) Manifa oil field development.

  • Arcapita finalises $1.3bn Singapore property deal

    Arcapita, the Bahrain-based investment firm, has finalised a deal with Singapore-based Mapletree Investments to become joint venture partners on the latter's $1.3bn property portfolio.

  • Award for King Abdulaziz University contract nears

    The award for a construction contract at King Abdulaziz University is expected by mid-July.

  • BA to move Dubai flights to Heathrow's Terminal 5

    British Airways, which currently operates 21 flights per week from the UAE to London Heathrow, and BAA have agreed to move the third and final phase of British Airways' remaining long-haul flights out of the London airport's Terminal 4 and into Terminal 5 beginning Wednesday, October 22, 2008. The 14 flights a week from Dubai International Airport will move on this date. This is in addition to daily flights from Abu Dhabi International Airport, which will transfer across from Terminal 4 to T

  • Baccarat to rise in Dubai Pearl

    Pearl Dubai announced its plans to develop a Dhs2.5bn Baccarat Hotel and Residences at Dubai Pearl in agreement with Starwood Capital Group. The Baccarat Hotel will cover an area of 500,000sqft and have 342 rooms, completion is set for 2011. The Baccarat Residences will feature apartments over an area of 300,000sqft.

  • Bahrain Air launches Jeddah route

    Bahrain Air is launching service to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, its 10th destination in the region, beginning 26th July. The service will operate three times a week for the entire summer season, and will become 4 weekly flights starting in September.

  • Bahrain Housing Ministry issues tender for townhouses

    Twelve bids have been submitted for residential construction work in Bahrain.

  • Bahrain opens financial bids for Addur plant

    Financial bids for the Addur independent water and power project (IWPP) in Bahrain will be opened on 24 July, with an award for the project expected to be made within the following week.

  • Bahrain sees 27 per cent increase in air passenger traffic

    Passenger traffic at the Bahrain International Airport rose by 27 per cent during the first half of 2008 compared with the equivalent period in 2007.

  • Bahrain set to announce preferred bidder for Addur power and water plant

    The preferred bidder on the Addur independent water and power project (IWPP) will be announced in the first week of August, after Bahrain’s Tender Board approves the final evaluation of the bids.

  • BAHRAIN TENDER: Housing construction

    Construction and maintenance of 123 traditional town houses. Closing date: 16 July 2008

  • BAHRAIN TENDER: Multi-purpose hall construction

    Construction of a multi-purpose hall. Closing date: 30 July 2008

  • BAHRAIN TENDER: Pharmaceuticals

    Supply of pharmaceuticals. Closing date: 6 August 2008

  • BAHRAIN TENDER: Road and earthworks

    Carrying out road works and earthworks. Closing date: 13 August 2008

  • BAHRAIN TENDER: Sewage treatment plant

    Development of a sewage treatment plant. Closing date: 28 August 2008

  • BAHRAIN TENDER: Sewage treatment plant at Muharraq

    The previously published deadline 21 June 2008 for submitting the Expressions of Interest (EOI) was published in error. Interested parties can continue to submit their EOI until the issuance of Request for Qualification (RFQ).It is expected that the successful bidder/private developer will build, own and operate the Muharraq sewage treatment plant (STP) that will be tendered to the international market in line with previous limited recourse project financed transactions in Bahrain.The

  • BAHRAIN TENDER: Substation power transformer maintenance

    Maintenance of high-voltage substation power transformers. Closing date: 20 August 2008

  • Bahrain to get new private jet operator

    Bahrain's Civil Aviation Affairs Ministry has approved the launch of a new private jet company, reported Gulf Daily News. Afaq Private Jets, a joint venture between Awali Real Estate Investment Co and unnamed strategic partners will operate in the private and business aviation sector.

  • Bahrain's Capivest to build a $1bn magnesium smelter.

    The Bahrain-based investment bank Capivest has announced plans to establish a BD377m ($1bn) company to build a magnesium smelter.

  • Banque Audi closes $380m Lafarge loan

    Lebanon’s Banque Audi has arranged a $380m syndicated loan for the Syrian Cement Company, a subsidiary of building materials group Lafarge.

  • Barack Obama and the death of manifest destiny

    As the era of certainty passes in US foreign policy - particularly in the Middle East - so rises the unlikely presidential contender, Senator Obama.

  • Barwa to build hotel in Libya

    Qatar’s Barwa International is to build a 4 star hotel in Libya.

  • Besix and Veolia sign Abu Dhabi wastewater deal

    Besix of the Netherlands and France’s Veolia have signed a build-own-operate-transfer contract with the Abu Dhabi Water & Electricity Authority.

  • Bid deadlines delayed on Saudi power projects

    The bid deadlines for two power projects in Saudi Arabia has been delayed until the end of the year to help engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contractors cope with their busy bidding schedules and the rising cost of materials.

  • Bids due for Zabeel One project

    Bids are due for the contract to build the Zabeel One project in Dubai by 10 August, following a series of extensions to give bidders more time.

  • Bids in for Abu Dhabi’s Nation Tower

    At least two groups have submitted bids for the main contract works for the Nation Towers project on Abu Dhabi corniche.

  • Bids in for Palm Deira ground improvement works

    Local property developer Nakheel has received bids for ground improvement works on its Dubai Palm Deira development.

  • Bids submitted for Bahrain sewerage work

    Bids have been submitted for a sewerage contract in the kingdom of Bahrain.

  • Bids submitted for Duqm dry dock gates

    A contract to build gates for the dry dock at Duqm has attracted only two bidders.

  • Bids submitted for Saadiyat resort

    The local Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC) has received bids from at least two local companies to build a resort on the North Beach of Saadiyat island in Abu Dhabi emirate.

  • Bids submitted for Seef Plaza project management contract

    Technical bids have been submitted for the project management of the Seef Plaza project in Bahrain.

  • Black Cat and SEG Qatar win Qatar college contract

    A local joint venture of Black Cat Engineering & Construction and SEG Qatar has won a QR1.1bn ($302m) contract to design and build the new Ras Laffan Emergency & Safety College.

  • Business aviation soaring in Middle East

    Business aviation in the Middle East is expected to generate roughly Dhs3bn ($800m) by 2012, according to Shaikh Ahmad Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and chairman and chief executive of Emirates Group. He added that the movement of small business planes in the Middle East is growing by 18% a year compared with the global average of 10%.

  • Business travel set to rise

    Business travel is set to increase in the next 12 months, according to business travel organisers responding to The Business Travel Show Dubai 2008 pre-show survey, conducted by YouGovSiraj. Over 80% of the respondents expect their company's travel frequency to increase, with almost half expecting the increase to be big. Similarly, company travel budgets have increased in the last year for over three quarters of respondents and as many expect this trend to continue in the next 12 months.

  • Cairo's subsidy bill grows by 130 per cent

    Egypt’s subsidies bill for the first 11 months of the financial year rose to£E76bn ($14.3bn), according to figures released by Minister of Finance Youssef Boutros Ghali.

  • Capivest eyes $1bn smelter in MENA

    Bahrain-based Capivest is intending to set up a $1bn company to build a magnesium smelter in the MENA region. Capivest said in a statement that studies had been completed, eyeing an initial production capacity of 30,000 to 60,000 tons per year. The specific location has not yet been revealed.

  • Carrier set to expand in Gulf

    US-based Carrier Corporation, which provides heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration systems, plans to widen its portfolio of cooling products and expand into new sectors such as district cooling in the region, reported Gulf News. Aftab M Khan, Carrier's managing director for the Middle East Carrier plans to expand its offerings in the UAE with a suite of products that are energy efficient and environmental sustainable.

  • Caterpillar's earnings jump 34% on ME sales

    Caterpillar, the world's largest maker of earthmoving equipment, has reported that its second-quarter earnings rose 34% on demand for backhoes and mining equipment in the Middle East and Asia, reported Bloomberg. Net income increased to $1.11bn, or $1.74 a share, from $823 million, or $1.24, a year earlier, the US-based company said. Sales increased 20% to $13.6bn.

  • Central Bank of Iran investigates revaluation of currency

    The governor of Iran's central bank has revealed that the government is considering revaluing the currency.

  • China Harbour wins Yanbu waterfront work

    China Harbour Engineering Company has signed a $100m contract for the dredging and excavation for a waterfront development at Yanbu on the Red Sea coast.

  • Chinese firm wins $612m contract for Saudi University

    Chinese contractor Guangdong Overseas Construction Group has been awarded a SR2.3bn ($612m) contract for work at King Khaled University.

  • Cirrus to develop resort in Dubai

    Iranian developer Cirrus Developments is to build a five-star resort in the Canal District of Dubai' Waterfront development, reported Gulf News. The developer will create a low-rise hotel resort complete with hotel operator and serviced villas and apartments. The total land area of the Dhs5bn ($1.4bn) resort will be around 850,000 square feet with a sellable area of 611,000 square feet.

  • Closing date for Zabeel One extended

    The tender closing date for the contract to build the Zabeel One project in Dubai has been extended to 31 July.

  • Closure of runway leads to cancelled flights

    Maintenance work next week by Abu Dhabi Airports Company on the airport runway at Abu Dhabi airport has led to Etihad Airways having to cancel eight flights of its daily total of 95. A significant number of other flights will have their departure or arrival times either brought forward or delayed to avoid the runway closure period. Although routine, the maintenance work is essential and will mean the airport's runway will be temporarily closed between 2.15am and 2.15pm (UAE time) on Tuesday 2

  • Commercial Bank of Qatar reports rise in profits

    Commercial Bank of Qatar (CBQ) has reported a 57.1 per cent increase in profits during the second quarter of the year, earning QR563.6m ($154.8m) in the three months to the end of June.

  • Consortium plans $267m investment in Al-Fardan Jewellery

    A consortium of regional investors is looking to invest up to SR1bn ($267m) in the Al-Fardan Jewellery company, part of the Qatari al-Fardan Group of companies, to fund an expansion of the business.

  • Construction on Wataniya headquarters to start within 12 months

    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.

  • Construction package for Riyadh gardens due in November

    Tenders for the remaining construction packages at the King Abdullah International Gardens project will be issued in November.

  • Contract signed for Port Rashid dredging

    Local developer Nakheel has awarded the AED2.2bn ($600m) reclamation contract for its Port Rashid development to the joint venture of Belgium’s Dredging International and Royal Boskalis Westminster of the Netherlands.

  • Contractor selected for Sports City enabling works

    The local NSCC has been awarded the enabling works contract for the Arena Mall shopping centre at Dubai Sports City (DSC).

  • CPC, Arabian Roots in steel deal

    Construction Products Holding Company (CPC) and Arabian Roots Co. have recently formed a joint venture to produce pre-engineered steel structure buildings in Syria, Egypt and the UAE, according to news reports. Roots Steel will have three factories, one in Damascus, Cairo and Abu Dhabi at a total investment of $80m. The factories are expected to produce 300,000 tons per year. Target dates of production are November 2008 for Damascus, February 2009 for Cairo, and March 2009 for Abu Dhabi.

  • Crescent to launch Latin American Sharia fund

    US-based asset management firm Crescent Partners is planning to launch a $500m Sharia compliant private equity fund aimed at placing Middle East liquidity into the Latin America region.

  • DAE Capital agrees deal with Emirates for 18 planes

    DAE Capital is to increase its fleet of aircraft with the acquisition of 18 Boeing freighters from Emirates Airline.

  • DAE confirms $13bn Airbus contract

    Dubai Aerospace Enterprise has confirmed an order with Airbus for 100 jetliners worth about $13bn at list prices, reported Bloomberg. The state-owned aviation company will buy 70 A320-series planes and 30 A350 XWBs, Toulouse, France-based Airbus said at the Farnborough International Air Show. DAE had signed a letter of intent for the planes in November at the Dubai Air Show.

  • Damac awards enabling works for marina project

    Turkish company Zetas Foundation Technology has been awarded the enabling works for the 98-storey Damac Heights project in Dubai Marina.

  • Dana Gas and Crescent Petroleum set to supply Kurdistan gas

    UAE-based Dana Gas and Crescent Petroleum expect to begin supplying 150 million cubic feet a day (cf/d) of gas from the Khor Mor field in northern Iraq in August, as part of a wider deal for a major gas-fed industrial complex in the Kurdish region.

  • Danube to invest Dhs50m by 2009

    UAE-based Danube Building Materials has announced its plans to invest Dhs50m ($13.6m) towards aluminium and glass manufacturing by 2009. The move is in line with the extensive growth witnessed in the aluminium market, with recent studies predicting that aluminium production in the UAE will cross 2.5 million metric tonnes by 2010. In addition, the investment aims to capitalise on the steadily rising price of aluminium, which rose by 23% in the first quarter of 2008 in Dubai compared to the sam

  • Depa wins $218m UAE orders

    Dubai-based interiors contractor Depa Ltd has won new nine new contracts with a total value of more than Dhs800m ($218m), reported Bloomberg. The orders are from eight new five- and four-star hotels across the UAE as well as a private palace located in Dubai.

  • Dewa delays issuing Hassyan plant tenders

    Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (Dewa) is likely to delay issuing tenders for Q Station and the second phase of P Station until the end of 2008, according to a source at the authority.

  • Dewa extends closing date for Hassyan contract

    Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (Dewa) has extended the closing date for the estimated $1.5bn contract to build the Hassyan seawater intake and outfall system to 31 August to give bidders more time.

  • Dewa receives bids for Hassyan Station P power plant

    Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (Dewa) has received seven bids for the first phase of the project to develop Station P at Hassyan.

  • DHL opens in Dubai Festival City

    DHL has opened a new service point in Dubai Festival City. Core DHL services on offer include DHL Express 9 and DHL Express 12 as Time Definite options for the more urgent deliveries, along with the standard end-of-day DHL Express Worldwide. The store is located on the ground floor of the mall, near Chili's Restaurant, and operates from Sunday to Saturday, between 10 am to 10 pm.

  • DIC leases all warehouse space

    Dubai Industrial City has said it has leased all of its 1.5 million square feet of warehouses, which is half of the available storage facilities in the first phase of its development. Dubai's Al Quoz industrial area having suffered bad fires recently, but these warehouses are built using pre-cast concrete walls that can contain a fire for four hours and stop it from spreading into neighbouring facilities. The doors are also fire proof and all units include independent fire fighting systems su

  • Dinosaur stalks Abu Dhabi airport

    A 23 metre, 4.5 tonne skeleton of an Apatosaurus (Brontosaurus) dinosaur will take pride of place in Abu Dhabi International Airport's Terminal One Arrivals hall for two and a half months, until it is auctioned off in October. Visitors to the airport will be able to see the skeleton, nicknamed Einstein, for free, without checking in or making a journey.

  • Dolphin Energy confirms award of pipeline to Stroytransgaz

    Abu Dhabi-based Dolphin Energy has confirmed the award of the $418m contract to design and build its planned Taweelah-Fujairah pipeline.

  • Don't delay getting visa for Olympics

    The Chinese embassy is strongly urging visitors to the Olympic Games in Beijing to promptly file their applications for visa to travel to the People's Republic of China in order to avoid the last-hour rush. Pei Guangsong from the Consular Office in the Chinese embassy said the visa requirements are posted at http://ae.chineseembassy.org.

  • Dow and Petrochemical Industries name joint venture

    The US’ Dow Chemical Company and Kuwait’s Petrochemical Industries Company (PIC) have named their planned joint venture company K-Dow Petrochemicals (KDP). The new firm will be headquartered in the US state of Michigan.

  • Dow, Aramco in $26bn plant deal

    Saudi Aramco and Dow Chemical announced its plans to build a petrochemicals complex in Saudi Arabia worth $26bn, Bahrain Tribune has reported. About 70% of the cost will be borrowed as the companies hired Royal Bank of Scotland Group and Riyad Bank to arrange for the financing.

  • DP World in Yemen Port JV

    DP World has secured the deal to operate and develop the container handling facilities in the port of Aden. The Yemen Gulf of Aden Port Corporation have agreed to DP World for the lease of Aden Container Terminal and Ma'alla Container Terminal, and a joint venture will see a $220m investment in the port, including building a new 400 metre berth extension to Aden Container Terminal.

  • DP World reports 21 per cent cargo growth

    DP World has reported a 21 per cent increase in cargo throughput at its ports during the first half of 2008.

  • DP World to seek work in India despite ban

    DP World says it will continue to seek work in India, despite Delhi’s decision to ban all companies from Dubai, Hong Kong, China and Pakistan from investing in port projects in the country.

  • DP World, Brisbane sign lease deal

    DP World and Port of Brisbane has signed a new 40-year lease agreement at the Port of Brisbane. DP World is looking to invest A$250m in the port over time in response to market demand. DP World currently leases container Terminals 4, 5 and 6 at the port.

  • DP World, Zim get approval to buy terminal

    Dubai-based DP World and Israel's Zim Integrated Shipping Services have won European Union antitrust approval to acquire Spain's Tarragona terminal, reported Bloomberg. DP World said on June 17 it had bought a 60% stake in Contarsa Sociedad de Estiba, which runs the terminal. Zim, a unit of Israel Corp, bought a 40% stake in the Spanish company. The European Commission, the 27-nation European Union's antitrust regulator, said it approved the deal in a statement today from Brussels.

  • Drake & Scull awarded Yas Island contract

    Dubai-based Drake & Scull International has been awarded a AED125m ($34m) contract for two hotel projects on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.

  • Drake & Scull gets $34bn from IPO

    Dubai construction and engineering firm Drake & Scull International attracted Dhs124bn ($34bn)from 45,600 investors in its initial public offering that was oversubscribed 101 times. The 1.2 billion shares were priced at Dhs1 each and an offering cost of Dh0.02 per share. The company will use the proceeds from the IPO to expand in the region and acquire companies to secure access to raw construction and engineering materials.

  • Dredging starts at Dubai's Port Rashid

    The joint venture of Belgium’s Dredging International and Royal Boskalis Westminster of the Netherlands has started work on the dredging and reclamation package for the redevelopment of Mina Rashid, also known as Port Rashid, in Dubai.

  • Du cuts losses in second quarter

    Du, the UAE's second telecoms operator, continued to cut its losses during the April to June quarter, a year after it signed up its first mobile customers.

  • Du raises AED3bn loan

    UAE telecoms company Du has raised a AED3bn ($817m) three-year syndicated loan at 125 basis points over London interbank offered rate (libor).

  • Dubai Aerospace chief executive resigns

    Bob Johnson has resigned as group chief executive officer of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise Holding (DAE).

  • Dubai Aerospace to raise $1bn

    Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) is looking to raise a $1bn three-year syndicated loan, and has appointed Citigroup, Deutsche Bank, Emirates NBD and Lloyds TSB to arrange the deal.

  • Dubai airport reports busiest period

    Dubai International has registered a 13.80% increase in passenger traffic for the first half of 2008, compared to the same period last year. The airport handled a record 18.46 million passengers during the first half, and an average of three million passengers per month, making it the busiest period in the airport's history.

  • Dubai airport upgrades VIP facility

    Dubai Airports has expanded, rebranded, and relocated its VIP facility at the Dubai International Airport. The new 'Al Majlis' facility, located close to Dubai International's Terminal 3, will offer exclusive services for affluent travellers - both corporate and individuals, whether they are arriving, setting off or in transit.

  • Dubai awards upgrade contracts for Al-Khail road

    Dubai’s Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has awarded two contracts worth a total of AED1.29bn ($350m) to upgrade sections of Al-Khail road.

  • Dubai beefs up fake passport detection

    The Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department has reinforced its employees' skills and ability to spot false documents and passports following an extensive training on the Electronic Documentation Information System on Network for verification of various passport security features and examination of questionable documents. The system is in use at the various DNRD terminals in the Duba Airport to assist passport control officers in detecting forged documents. Questionable documents are tak

  • Dubai bourse moves to Nasdaq-OMX trading platform

    Dubai International Financial Exchange (DIFX) has become the latest stock exchange in the region to move to a trading platform built by Nasdaq-OMX, the US-Swedish financial markets group.

  • Dubai cabbies plan strike

    A strike by taxi drivers in Dubai to protest their working conditions is planned for tomorrow, Wednesday, but more than 90% of drivers say they will ignore the strike and continue to do their jobs, reported Gulf News. The strike was planned to protest unreasonable fines by management and long work hours. The drivers are also seeking a minimum salary in addition to the current system of commission.

  • Dubai contractor takes Sowwah island roads and bridges

    Dubai-based Al-Naboodah Construction Group has been awarded the contract for the first phase of infrastructure works on Sowwah Island by local developer Mubadala Real Estate & Hospitality.

  • Dubai defends benefits for taxi drivers

    Dubai's Roads & Transport Authority has issued a statement saying it is providing the 'best' employment benefits and package of incentives to taxi drivers in Dubai Taxi Agency. RTA offers drivers suitable accommodation, medical insurance, annual bonuses and increments paid to distinguished drivers, the statement said.

  • Dubai extends bid deadline on solar project

    Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (Dewa) has extended the bid deadline for engineering consultancy services on its first solar power project to 5 August.

  • Dubai issues building safety manual

    Dubai Municipality has issued a safety manual for construction works. The booklet outlines specific guidelines for all types of construction and demolition works. The move is part of the Municipality's objective of introducing a complete legal framework in line with the Strategic Plan 2007-2011.

  • Dubai issues new rules for construction safety

    Dubai Municipality has published a new set of safety guidelines for construction sites.

  • Dubai launches traffic points campaign

    Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority and Dubai Police have launched a joint campaign raise awareness about the emirate's traffic points system, previously known as black points system, which was partially amended in March, reported Gulf News. RTA has cancelled about 340 driving licences in the past six months for reaching the limit of 24 traffic points as a result of traffic offences.

  • Dubai legalises car pooling

    Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority has legalised car pooling in a move to encourage motorists to share rides and cut traffic congestion, reported Gulf News. RTA has created a website (www.sharekni.ae) where residents can find drivers or passengers and sign up for a six-month permit to be part of the car-pooling service. However, people sharing cars with relatives and friends will not need to register. RTA said the maximum number of passengers in one car is four and all their names must be

  • Dubai Maritime City tests mobile boat hoist

    Dubai Maritime City said it has successfully assembled and functionally-tested the world's largest mobile boat hoist at its facilities, in 45 days. The hoist weighs 300 tonnes and will be load-tested in early August 2008 to be fully operational in October this year.

  • Dubai ports reach 5.8m TEU in H1

    DP World has reported a 17% combined growth for the two Dubai ports, Jebel Ali and Port Rashid, reaching 5.8m TEU for the first half of 2008. Consolidated performance of DP World terminals showed a throughput of 13.6m TEU, 21% higher than the same period last year. The increase in volumes were attributed to Australia, India and Middle East regions.

  • Dubai receives Metro trains

    Dubai has received a further six Metro trains, following successful trials of the first two, which arrived in the emirate in March. A further three trains will arrive in Dubai every month, to an eventual total of 62. More comprehensive trials, running 14km from Ibn Battuta Mall and the Jebel Ali Industrial Stations will take place in August.

  • Dubai suspends trading in Shuaa Capital shares

    The Dubai Financial Market has suspended trading in the shares of Shuaa Capital after the bank’s share price climbed 15 per cent in one day, the maximum gain in a single trading session allowed under the market’s regulations.

  • Dubai to roll out mobile speed cameras

    Dubai Police and Dubai Media Inc have launched a joint campaign for increased traffic awareness, involving the deployment of up to 20 new mobile video cameras, according to a Gulf News report. The cameras will be placed in undercover police patrol cars.

  • Dubai World completes Gazeley deal

    Economic Zones World (EZW), a Dubai World company announced it has completed the acquisition of Gazeley Limited. Gazeley is a Wal-Mart-owned global provider of sustainable logistics space.

  • Dubai's hotel revenue up 22%

    Dubai's hotel sector recorded 22% growth in revenues reaching Dhs4.261bn ($1.16bn) during the first quarter of 2008, compared to Dhs3.49bn recorded during the corresponding quarter last year, according to Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing. The number of hotel and hotel apartment guests rose to 1.89 million in the first quarter this year compared to 1.76 million recorded in the corresponding period last year, showing an increase of 7%. It is the highest guest increase percen

  • Dubai's Roads &Transport Authority tenders car parks

    The Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) has invited companies to bid by 11 September for a design, build, operate and transfer contract for eight multi-storey car parks in Dubai.

  • Dubal production hits 10m tonnes

    Dubai Aluminium Company Limited (Dubal) announced it has reached a major production milestone, having produced its ten millionth cumulative tonne of hot metal mid-July this year. Dubal aims to produce 2.5m tonnes of primary aluminium per year to become the world's fifth largest producer by 2015.

  • Dubal Q2 output rises 8.3%

    State-owned smelter Dubai Aluminium (Dubal) has increased Q2 output by 8.3%. Output for H1 rose 6.6% to 466,012 tonnes, fuelled by increased demand. The annual target for 2008 remains 950,000 tonnes.

  • Dupont inks deal with Nissan

    DuPont has signed a three-year agreement with Nissan Middle East to supply DuPont's three leading refinish brands - Standox, Spies Hecker and DuPont Refinish - at the body repair facilities of all Nissan Service Centres across the Middle East. Under the terms of the agreement, DuPont Performance Coatings will be integrated into Nissan Middle East's full training program, which will be conducted at their headquarters in Dubai and extended throughout the regional network of Nissan Service Centr

  • EFG signs $157m deal for new plant

    Emirates Float Glass has signed a Dhs575m ($157m) contract with an Italian engineering firm, Ianua, for the construction and supervision of its second float glass manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi that would raise its production capacity to 1,200 tonnes per day. The new plant, which complements the company's existing production unit in the Abu Dhabi Industrial City, will enable Emirates Float Glass to become the largest single-location float glass manufacturing facility in the region, accor

  • EGYPT TENDER: Airport facilities management project

    Carrying out a new facilities management project for a new airport terminal. Closing date: 17 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Aluminium sulphate

    Supply of 12,000 tonnes of aluminium sulphate. Closing date: 29 July 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Bauxite

    Supply of 7,000 tonnes of bauxite. Closing date: 13 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Buses

    Supply of 100 heavy-duty buses. Closing date: 27 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Concrete mixing plant

    Supply of a concrete mixing plant. Closing date: 2 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Earthmoving and cable extension works

    Carrying out earthmoving works and extension of ground level cables. Closing date: 17 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Educational teaching laboratories equipment

    Supply of equipment for 48 teaching laboratories. Closing date: 17 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Electric control system

    Replacement and modernisation of an electric control system. Closing date: 30 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Flood protection

    Provision of flood protection services. Closing date: 13 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Headquarters building construction

    Construction of the headquarters building. Closing date: 29 July 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Housing construction

    Construction of 37 residential buildings comprising 1,332 housing units. Closing date: 18 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Housing construction

    Construction of 10 residential buildings. Closing date: 24 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Housing construction

    Construction of 36 residential buildings comprising 1,000 housing units. Closing date: 21 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Irrigation and canal civil works

    Carrying out irrigation and canal civil works. Closing date: 12 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Irrigation pumping station equipment (El-Zainy)

    Construction of mechanical and electrical equipment for an irrigation pumping station. Closing date: 14 October 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Irrigation pumping station equipment (Zaghloul)

    Construction of mechanical and electrical equipment for an irrigation pumping station. Closing date: 14 October 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Locomotive batteries

    Supply of batteries for locomotives. Closing date: 11 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Metro escalator maintenance

    Maintenance of electric escalators at metro stations. Closing date: 10 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Metro line rails

    Supply of 500 tonnes of rails for metro lines. Closing date: 10 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: PE pipes (100)

    Supply of polyethylene (PE) pipes. Closing date: 7 September 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: PE pipes (80)

    Supply of polyethylene (PE) pipes. Closing date: 7 September 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Pharmaceuticals factory construction

    Construction of a pharmaceuticals factory. Closing date: 3 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Potassium sulphate

    Supply of 2,300 tonnes of potassium sulphate. Closing date: 29 July 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Residential building construction

    Construction of 37 residential buildings comprising 1,332 housing units. Closing date: 18 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Residential buildings

    Construction of eight residential buildings. Closing date: 21 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Residential buildings

    Construction of 12 residential buildings. Closing date: 21 July 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Residential buildings (10)

    Construction of 10 residential buildings. Closing date: 24 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Residential buildings (11)

    Construction of 11 residential buildings. Closing date: 25 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Residential tower construction

    Construction of a tower comprising residential apartments. Closing date: 17 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Teaching laboratory equipment

    Supply of equipment for 48 teaching laboratories. Closing date:17 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Truck-mounted concrete pump

    Supply of a truck-mounted concrete pump. Closing date: 6 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: University hospital PPP

    Carrying out a university hospital project on a public-private partnership basis. Closing date: 17 July 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: UPS units

    Rehabilitation and replacement of uninterrupted power supply (UPS) units. Closing date: 3 August 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Water control and system management

    Provision of efficient water control and system management. Closing date: 15 September 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Water storage tank

    Construction of a 700-cubic-metre overhead water storage tank. Closing date: 28 July 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Women’s centre construction

    Construction of a women’s centre. Closing date: 7 September 2008

  • Egyptian inflation reaches 20%

    Egyptian inflation rose to 20.2 per cent in the year to June, the Central Agency for Public Mobilisation & Statistics (CAPMAS) reported on 10 July, up from 19.7 per cent a month earlier.

  • Electricite du Liban makes massive loss

    State-owned power company Electricite du Liban (EdL) lost $662m in the first five months of the year, 85 per cent higher than in the same period last year.

  • Emaar Hospitality appoints new COO

    Emaar Hospitality Group, the hospitality & leisure business subsidiary of Emaar Properties, has appointed Christoph Mares as Chief Operating Officer of the company. Reporting to Marc Dardenne, Chief Executive Officer, Mares will drive the day-to-day business and management operations of every business unit within Emaar Hospitality Group's diversified portfolio.

  • Emaar pioneers 'Passion Plus'

    Emaar Properties has introduced a new system of standards and procedures at all its properties including hotels, serviced residences and leisure clubs. Passion Plus is database driven system that helps users to track and record the performance of associates. The system has been developed by Guest Best, aiming to quantify and measure service excellence and quality standards.

  • Emaar plans mixed-use project in King Abdullah Economic City

    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.

  • Emaar signs deal to develop Saudi plastics hub

    Emaar, the Economic City has signed a memorandum of understanding with the US’ StrateSphere Enterprises to develop the planned plastics valley at King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC).

  • Emaar signs plastics agreement with Savola Group

    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.

  • Emaar teams up with Capri in Saudi

    Emaar, The Economic City, the company developing King Abdullah Economic City, has entered into a partnership with Capri Capital Partners to develop an SR7.5 billion ($2bn) mixed-use project in the KAEC. The 200,000 square metre project will feature two luxury hotels, office towers, a retail center, condominium towers, and a convention center and adjoining hotel. Capri is currently in negotiations with the parent companies of the Waldorf-Astoria and St. Regis hotels to operate the two hotels.

  • Emaar to build plastic industry hub in KAEC

    Emaar, The Economic City, the developer of King Abdullah Economic City, has signed an agreement with Savola Group to establish a plastic industry cluster in the Industrial Zone of KAEC. Savola Packaging Systems, a subsidiary of Savola Group, will identify product lines and determine raw material prices, optimum volume, capacities and product research in creating a global plastic industry hub.

  • Emirates cuts Alexandria route

    Emirates is cancelling its service to Alexandria, Egypt from 10th September 2008 due to high oil prices, according to a spokesperson. The airline will continue to serve Egypt with 10 flights a week to Cairo using its large capacity Boeing 777 aircraft.

  • Emirates delays service to LA, SF

    Emirates is delaying the start of its nonstop service to Los Angeles and San Francisco by about a month because of a hold up in the delivery of four Boeing 777-200LRs aircraft, which the carrier had intended to deploy on these routes, according to a spokesperson. The service to Los Angeles is being pushed back from 1st September to 1st October, and the start of service to San Francisco is being delayed from 26th October to 20th November.

  • Emirates extends in-flight calls to Boeing

    Emirates has introduced Aero-Mobile's in-flight mobile phone services on one of its Boeing 777-300 planes, claiming this is a first for a Boeing aircraft. Passengers can make calls and send SMS messages via their phones during a flight. The plane operates several routes, including services to Europe and Australia. Ten of Emirates' Airbus fleet currently have the technology installed. Average passenger call length, according to Emirates, is 2.5 minutes.

  • Emirates flies to Guangzhou

    Emirates has launched its six flights a week to Guangzhou, China's third major air hub and leading manufacturing centre. It is also Emirates' fourth destination in China. The airline's weekly frequency to China has increased to 48 flights. Guangzhou's main export items include electrical goods such as televisions and refrigerators, as well as consumer products.

  • Emirates launches eco campaign

    Emirates has announced a series of environmental initiatives on the eve of taking delivery of its first Airbus A380, to improve its operations worldwide. Named the Emvironment programme, it includes the adoption of a new environmental policy for the company, a global staff awareness campaign and internal goals to reduce energy consumption and waste, as well as increase recycling and training.

  • Emirates NBD reports 45 per cent rise in profits

    Banking group Emirates NBD has reported a 45 per cent increase in profits driven by growth in loans, fee income and synergies achieved from the merger of Emirates Bank and National Bank of Dubai.

  • Emirates now flies daily to Brazil

    Emirates is now offering a daily service to Brazil, which began on 1 July. Emirates is the first airline to offer the Dubai-Sao Paolo direct service. The route is being serviced with the carrier's Boeing 777-200LRs.

  • Emirates raises fares

    An Emirates official has confirmed that its fares would be increased by 10% for economy class and 5% for first and business class, effective today, reported Khaleej Times. The official said the 'the staggering increase in fuel prices' has raised all of the airline's operational costs, forcing it to revise our fares accordingly. The Emirates' fare increase follows an earlier hike of 5.5% introduced on February 15 this year.

  • Emirates set to launch A380

    Emirates Airline has announced plans to showcase the new, double-decker Airbus A380 during exclusive familiarisation flights in San Francisco and Los Angeles. The familiarisation flights will immediately follow the inaugural flight of the aircraft from Dubai to New York JFK on August 1st, 2008. Invited guests from San Francisco and L.A.- both slotted to receive their own daily non-stop service featuring the Boeing 777-200LR from Dubai this fall, will have the opportunity to view the A380 bef

  • Emirates starts 6 flights a week to Kozhikode

    Emirates has introduced six flights a week to Kozhikode in Kerala from Dubai, taking the number of weekly trips to India to 125. Kozhikode, a key commercial and tourist gateway in Kerala, is Emirates' third in the state and tenth in India. The airline now becomes the highest frequency operated by an international carrier serving India.

  • Emirates to buy 60 Airbus planes

    Emirates has inked a deal to buy 60 more wide-bodied planes from Airbus, as part of its international expansion. The letter of intent was signed on the sidelines of its A380 launch in Germany today. The deal includes 30 A330-300s and 30 A350 XWBs.

  • Emirates to scrap newspapers

    Emirates Airlines has announced plans to scrap their in flight newspaper and magazine service on all flights, according to a Gulf News report. The move, designed to cut costs and enhance fuel efficiency, would remove approximately one tonne in weight from an A380 aircraft.

  • Emke to build food processing facility

    UAE-based Emke Group, which operates LuLu hypermarkets across the Gulf, plans to invest Dhs300m ($82m) in a meat and seafood-processing unit in Al Ain, UAE. Emke Group and a European poultry company, Rose Poultry, are jointly setting up this first-of-its-kind project.

  • Empost opens unit in Dafza

    Express courier Empost has opened its International Division at the Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority to become its central point for all international transactions and services. Empost has expanded its offerings through Ezimail, Total Mail Management, Heavies Express Service, Economy Express, Ezibox, and Track and Trace.

  • ETA Ascon expands shipping fleet

    The Shipping division of the ETA Ascon Star Group has taken the delivery of 'Star of Emirates', the first of a series of three 83,000 tons Kamsarmax type vessels the company has acquired. The second vessel will join the fleet in October 2008, with a third joining the fleet in January 2009. Built in Japan, all three vessels follow the highest Japanese/European safety standards combined with energy efficiency, according to a statement.

  • ETA Ascon to build Summit tower in Dubai

    The local ETA Ascon has been awarded the estimated AED485m ($132m) contract to build the Summit tower project at Dubai Media City.

  • Etihad books 45 Boeings

    Etihad Airways has announced 45 firm orders of Boeing aircraft at the Farnborough International Airshow in the UK, which amount to more than $9bn. Etihad has signed for 35 B787 and 10 B777-300ER aircraft, powered by GE90 engines.

  • Etihad boosts aircraft orders to $22bn

    Etihad has placed another massive order for new aircraft, purchasing 55 planes from European manufacturer Airbus in a deal worth some $12bn.

  • Etihad Etisalat fails to disclose customer numbers

    Etihad Etisalat, the Saudi subsidiary of the UAE’s Etisalat, has failed to disclose its customer numbers in its latest quarterly financial update, even though it was ordered to do so by the kingdom’s telecoms regulator.

  • Etihad likely to order up to 100 planes

    Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways said it will likely announce orders of between 50 and 100 aircraft at the Farnborough International Airshow in Britain in July, reported AFP. The aircraft will be needed to deliver the carrier's flying programme up to 2020, said Iain Burns, Etihad's vice president of corporate communication.

  • Etihad offers Kuwait fare promo

    Etihad Airways is offering a fare promotion for flights to Beijing and Johannesburg from Kuwait via Abu Dhabi. The promotion is part of its second year of operations in Kuwait.

  • Etihad places $10bn order for new aircraft

    Etihad Airways has placed a firm order with Boeing for aircraft worth close to $10bn.

  • Etihad sees 41% rise in passengers

    Abu-Dhabi based Etihad Airways said the number of passengers it carried in the first six months of 2008 jumped 41% compared to the same period last year. The airline carried 2.8 million passengers during the first half of this year, compared to nearly two million for the same period in 2007. The airline said it is on track to achieve its target of carrying six million passengers in 2008.

  • Etihad to launch flights to Kazakhstan

    Etihad Airways will launch flights to Almaty in Kazakhstan from 2 December.

  • Etisalat and France Telecom commit to joint investments

    Etisalat, the UAE telecoms giant, and France Telecom have agreed to a range of joint investments in infrastructure, broadband technology and video content.

  • Etisalat profits climb 58 per cent

    Etisalat, the UAE-based telecoms operator, produced sharply higher net profits between April and June this year, according to the company’s second quarter financial results.

  • Europe removes ban on Iran's Mahan Airlines

    The European Commission (EC) has dropped Iran's Mahan Airlines from its safety blacklist of airlines banned from EU skies.

  • EWA Hotel opens in Manama

    Hospitality Management Holdings has opened its first hotel in Bahrain, the EWA Hotel Apartments located in Manama, the Bahrain Tribune has reported. The hotel has been designed to cater to corporate travellers as well as tourists, with 20 hotel apartments and 60 deluxe rooms.

  • Executive airport set for Abu Dhabi

    Abu Dhabi Airports Company has announced that it will establish the Middle East's first dedicated executive airport at Al Bateen military airbase just 10 kilometres from Abu Dhabi city centre. The Bateen facility will be developed as an exclusive corporate jet facility and ADAC will invest more than Dhs200m ($54m) in additional facilities at the airport, which until now has been a military airbase. ADAC will develop a 'one-stop shop' business jet facility, offering VVIP and VIP passenger term

  • Ezz Steel to raise capital

    Ezz Steel is to raise capital to finance an increase in production to hit its 2009 target.

  • Falcon buys four Sikorsky helicopters

    Abu Dhabi-based Falcon Aviation Services has announced its acquisition of four S-76D helicopters from Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. for VIP/corporate transport. Falcon currently has 14 aircraft in service, and has firm orders for an additional 23 new helicopters and corporate jets worth more than $450m.

  • Finance ministry invites interest in Omantel

    Oman’s Ministry of Finance has invited expressions of interest from international telecoms companies interested in acquiring a 25 per cent stake in Omantel, the country’s largest mobile phone operator.

  • Financial close for PP10 Riyadh power plant due in August

    Financial close for the SR11.5bn ($3.1bn) PP10 power plant near Riyadh is expected to close on 4 August, with support mainly coming from Saudi banks.

  • First Gulf Bank profits up 70 per cent

    The UAE’s First Gulf Bank has announced a 70 per cent increase in profits during the second quarter of the year, compared with the same period last year.

  • Fitch upgrades five Saudi banks

    Fitch Ratings has upgraded the rating of five banks in Saudi Arabia to AA- following the upgrade in the sovereign rating of Saudi Arabia in early July.

  • Fitch upgrades Saudi debt rating

    Fitch Ratings has increased the ratings on sovereign debt from Saudi Arabia by one notch to AA- as a result of record oil prices, and says it expects the country to hold external assets worth more than its GDP by the end of 2008.

  • FlyDubai orders 54 aircraft from Boeing

    FlyDubai has ordered 54 Boeing 737-800 aircraft worth about $4bn at list prices.

  • FlyDubai orders 54 Boeings 737-800

    FlyDubai announced it has ordered 54 next-generation 737-800 aircraft from Boeing for an approximate $4bn at Farnborough Air Show. FlyDubai has a firm order for 50 aircraft from Boeing and four Boeing 737-800s in a separate leasing agreement with Babcock & Brown Aircraft Management.

  • FlyDubai spends $700m on engines

    FlyDubai has put in orders for engines and winglets totalling $750m. The deals were signed during the Farnborough Air Show. The first agreement is with CFM International, a 50/50 JV between Snecma and GE, for 100 CFM56-7B engines to power its earlier orders of 50 Boeing 737-800/900s. It has also placed orders for blended winglets from Aviation Partners Boeing, worth $50m.

  • FlyDubai targets 12 destinations in first year

    FlyDubai is planning to reach 12 destinations during its first year of operations.

  • FlyYeti halts operations

    Nepal-based budget airline FlyYeti.com will suspend operations in mid-July due to political uncertainty in its home country, reported Reuters. The airline, which is majority owned by Air Arabia, only began operations six months ago. It had provided services to Abu Dhabi, Doha, Kuala Lumpur and Sharjah.

  • Foreign grants to Jordan up in first half

    Foreign grants to the Jordanian government soared by 63 per cent to JD126.2m ($178.3m) during the first five months of the year, according to the Finance Ministry.

  • Four firms bid for Dubai Metro's green line contract

    Dubai's Roads & Transport Authority has received bids from four firms for the consultancy contract on the extension to the green line on the Dubai Metro.

  • Four groups prequalify for Kuwait air traffic tower contract

    Kuwait's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has prequalified four international groups to bid for a contract at Kuwait International Airport.

  • France Telecom seeks partnership with incumbent operator in Algeria

    France Telecom says it is hoping to form a partnership with one of the three mobile phone operators in Algeria, rather than bid for its own licence.

  • Friendi Mobile gets virtual network licence in Oman

    Friendi Mobile, a UAE-based telecoms operator, has won a licence to operate a virtual mobile phone network in Oman, the first such licence in the sultanate and the company's second in the region.

  • Fujairah rises as Iran war fears grow

    The bulldozers are busy in Fujairah port as the world worries about the security of the sea route to the source of Gulf oil.

  • GAC sets up in Kazakhstan

    Gulf Agency Co (GAC) has established its branch in Kazakhstan, which initially amied at securing its logistics businesswith GAC China. Business consists primarily of movements from China to Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan, for pipes and casings for the booming local oil and gas sector.

  • Gas Natural agrees import deal with Qatar

    Spain’s Gas Natural has agreed a framework agreement with Qatargas to import up to 5 billion cubic metres of liquefied natural gas (LNG) over the medium to long term.

  • GCC markets continue to slide

    It has been another bearish week in GCC markets, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE markets leading the falls, driven by negative sentiment globally.

  • GE looks for further Middle East partners

    GE is continuing to look for local partners in the Middle East to expand its presence in the region through joint venture deals similar to the one signed with Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala earlier this month.

  • GE wins Emirates Aluminium supply contract

    The US’ GE has won a $500m contract to supply equipment to the captive power plant at the Emirates Aluminium (Emal) production facility near Al-Taweelah in Abu Dhabi.

  • Germany lures Gulf nationals

    An increasing number of Gulf nationals are visiting Germany, reported Gulf News. The total number of overnight stays in Germany by Gulf nationals rose to 724,721 in 2007, according to Antje Roeding, Director (Gulf Countries) of the German National Tourist Office. Since 1998, the figure has risen by almost 134%, which amounts to an annual rise of 11.4%.

  • GGICO sets up unit for Bitumen

    Gulf General Investment Company PSC (GGICO) announced its has opened a new company in Sharjah, Horizon Energy Co. LLC, for the trading of Bitumen and manufacturing and sale of other value added Bitumen products. The project is a 10,550-sqm. plant in Khalid Port and have an installed storage capacity of 16,000 tonne.

  • Global Holidays on Saudi GSA deals

    Global Holidays has been appointed as General Sales Agent (GSA) in Lebanon by Saudi luxury air carrier Kayala Airlines, as well as for NAS Air, to handle budget air travel between Saudi Arabia and Lebanon. A member of Planet Group, the company has posted a 60% increase in revenues in 2007.

  • Global Investment House profits up 76 per cent

    Kuwait's Global Investment House has reported an increase in second quarter profits of 76 per cent, driven by a rise in investment banking fee income.

  • Green building planned for Abu Dhabi

    Bahrain-based International Investment Bank plans to build a AED1bn ($272m) green building at the Danet Abu Dhabi development in the UAE capital.

  • Ground preparation work begins on Saudi Knowledge Economic City

    Land preparation work has started at Knowledge Economic City (KEC) in Saudi Arabia.

  • Gulf Air gets 2 Airbus aircraft

    Bahrain's national carrier Gulf Air has received two Airbus A321-200 aircraft from Dublin-based aircraft leasing company, Macquarie AirFinance, reported the Bahrain Tribune. With this delivery, the Irish company has three A320 family aircraft on lease to Gulf Air.

  • Gulf Air online sales up 250%

    Gulf Air has recorded an increase of 250% in its online bookings compared to last year. This follows the roll out of a new booking engine in January which offers an online 'best fare' guarantee.

  • Gulf Air to launch Hyderabad flights

    Gulf Air, the national carrier of Bahrain, will begin its services to Hyderabad from Tuesday with its inaugural flight taking off from Bahrain International Airport at 12.05am. This follows the airline's launch of its services to China's commercial capital Shanghai on June 16.

  • Gulf Finance House to establish steel company

    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.

  • Gulf Projects 07 July 2008

    The value of projects planned and under way in the Gulf increased by 1.5 per cent to $2.29 trillion in the week to 7 July.

  • Gulf Projects 14 July 2008

    The MEED Projects index was on the verge of exceeding $2.3 trillion for the first time in the week ending 14 July.

  • Gulf Projects 21 July 2008

    The MEED Projects index passed two milestones in the week ending 21 July, with the value of projects planned and under way in the GCC exceeding $2 trillion for the first time and the regional total breaking through $2.3 trillion.

  • Gulf Projects 30 June 2008

    The value of projects planned and under way in the Gulf rose by 1.1 per cent to $2.26 trillion in the week to 30 June, according to the MEED Projects index.

  • Gulf shipping companies place orders worth $2bn

    United Arab Shipping Company (UASC) has unveiled a $1.5bn deal for new container ships, while the Al-Jaber Group has placed a $500m order for eight new bulk carriers.

  • Gulf sovereign wealth funds hold meeting in France

    Gulf sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) including Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (Adia) and the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) have attended a meeting in France in an effort to improve relations with Europe.

  • Gulftainer launches venture in Turkey

    Gulftainer Company Limited, based in the UAE emirate of Sharjah, has launched a transport and logistics firm in a joint venture with Turkey's Demas International. The new company will combine Demas's Turkish expertise in logistics, trucking and warehousing with Gulftainer's terminal, port, transport operations and links with various shipping lines, Gulftainer said.

  • Hill and TMG win work on nine projects in Egypt and Saudi Arabia

    The joint venture between US-based Hill International and Egypt’s Talaat Moustafa Group Holding (TMG) has been awarded contracts to manage nine projects with a total construction value of $3.8bn for TMG.

  • Hotel occupancy 83% up in Sharjah

    The Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority has reported an overall occupancy in Sharjah's hotels to 83% higher during the first six months of 2008 compared to the corresponding period in 2007. Hotels and hotel apartments in Sharjah have also increased to 102 (37 hotels and 65 hotel apartments), compared to the figure of 74 (24 hotels and 50 hotel apartments) during the same period in 2007.

  • How Gulf businesses can tackle inflation

    Double your productivity, even if it means paying people twice as much, says Edmund O'Sullivan.

  • Human Rights Watch urges Riyadh to reform labour law

    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.

  • Hyundai wins contract to build Jaber al-Ahmed substation

    South Korea’s Hyundai Engineering & Construction has won the contract to build a 300/132/11KV substation at Jaber al-Ahmed in Kuwait.

  • IFA launches $200m project in Thailand

    IFA Hotels & Resorts, a Kuwait-based hotelier partly-owned by Saudi billionaire Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal, has launched a $200m real-estate project in Thailand with Raimon Land Pcl, a Thai property developer, reported Bloomberg. The Kuwaiti company will own 49% of the 'Lofts South Shore' project.

  • IHG appoints revenue director

    InterContinental Hotels Group has appointed Hannes Bos as Director of Revenue Management for the Middle East and Africa. Bos will be responsible for developing pricing structures and revenue management strategies across all five of IHG's hotel brands in the Middle East & Africa.

  • IHG manages 4 new Egypt hotels

    InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) has won four hotels to exclusively manage for Sovereign Hospitality Holdings, owned by M.A. Kharafi Group of Kuwait. The resort site is in Port Ghalib Resort, in Marsa Alam, Egypt and will now feature one InterContinental Hotel, two Crowne Plaza hotels and an International Convention Centre. IHG will also manage the Marina Lodge Hotel which will remain individually branded.

  • IHG signs Crown Plaza Riyadh

    InterContinental Hotels Group has signed the Crowne Plaza Riyadh, in partnership with Mohammed A. Al-Swailem for Commercial Investment Co Ltd. This will be IHG's second Crowne Plaza in the kingdom and is scheduled to open in late 2010. Primarily servicing business travellers, the hotel, which will be located in the northern part of Riyadh, will feature over 300 rooms and suites.

  • IHG signs Kuwait deal

    InterContinetal Hotels Group has signed an agreement with the Bukhamseen Holding Group to develop the InterContinental Kuwait Downtown. The property will feature 200 rooms and is scheduled to open in 2010.

  • IHG, Visa offer summer deal

    Customers booking online and paying with their Visa card get a complimentary room upgrade with breakfast as well as one hour free internet access per stay at any InterContinental Hotel Group (IHG) participating hotel. The promotion runs until 30 September at selected hotels in Middle East and Africa - and includes Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express.

  • Imco bids low for Kuwait refinery maintenance

    The local Instruments Installation & Maintenance Company (Imco) is low bidder at KD19m ($70.4m) for a contract to provide maintenance services at the Mina Abdulla refinery.

  • Industrial sector to get more UAE nationals

    An agreement to increase the number of Emiratis in the UAE's industrial sector has been signed by Tanmia, the National Resource Development Authority, the Ministry of Economy and the Dubai Industrial Academy, reported Khaleej Times. Through additional training and accreditation, the parties seek to boost the number of Emiratis in the industrial sector from the current 1.7% of the total industrial workforce to 7-10% in the next five years.

  • Intercontinental and Bukhamseen to develop hotel in Kuwait

    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

  • Intermass awarded Lakeside project in Dubai media zone

    Local developer Damac Properties has awarded Sharjah-based Intermass Engineering & Contracting Company the AED805m ($219m) contract to build the Lakeside development at the International Media production Zone (IMPZ).

  • International contractors bid for major Qatar pipeline

    Bids from at least five international contractors were submitted on 6 July for a major contract to build a gas pipeline between Ras Laffan and Mesaieed.

  • Interpipe opens new production line

    Steel pipe and railway wheels producer Interpipe is opening a new production line at the Interpipe NMPP mill. The new line gives Interpipe the capacity to produce pipes with an external anti-corrosive 3-layer coating for both seamless and welded pipes up to 530mm for oil and gas transportation. Total investment in the project is $8.5m.

  • Invensys wins contract at Jubail refinery

    Invensys Process Systems has won a contract worth about $80m to design, build and install all automation systems at the 400,000-barrel-a-day (b/d) export refinery in Jubail.

  • Investors react positively to financial results of major firms

    Retail investors across the GCC pushed markets higher after some of the region’s largest companies reported strong financial results.

  • Iran doubles reserves estimate at Jofeir oil field

    National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) has more than doubled an earlier reserves estimate at its Jofeir oilfield, which lies near the Iraqi border, following the drilling of a new oil well.

  • Iran invites bids for Saleh gas field

    Iranian Offshore Oil Company (IOOC) has invited companies to bid for the Saleh gas field in the Strait of Hormuz, following prequalification earlier this year.

  • Iran nominates new ministers to parliament

    President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has nominated three new ministers for approval by the Majlis (parliament), following the end of a caretaker period for those holding the interim posts.

  • Iran prepares drilling tender for South Gashu gas field

    Central Iranian Oil Fields Company (CIOFC) is expected to issue a drilling tender by the end of July for development of its South Gashu gas field, near Bandar Abbas.

  • IRAN TENDER: Aluminium plant substation

    Supply and construction of a main substation for an aluminium plant. Closing date: 4 August 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Calcined anthracite

    Supply of calcined anthracite. Closing date: not stated

  • IRAN TENDER: Catalyst

    Supply of catalyst. Closing date: 11 August 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Chemical fertilisers

    Supply of chemical fertilisers. Closing date: 4 August 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Earth moving equipment

    Supply of earth moving equipment as part of an earthquake emergency reconstruction project. Closing date: 19 August 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Foundry coke

    Supply of foundry coke. Closing date: not stated

  • IRAN TENDER: Gas turbine

    Provision of a mobile gas turbine. Closing date: 30 July 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Geophysical and geotechnical surveys

    Carrying out geophysical and geotechnical surveys. Closing date: 23 August 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Heat shrinkable sleeves

    Supply of heat shrinkable sleeves. Closing date: not stated

  • IRAN TENDER: Helicopter charter

    Charter of a helicopter for offshore drilling services in the Gulf. Closing date: 23 August 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Helicopters

    Supply of 25 twin-engine helicopters. Closing date: not stated

  • IRAN TENDER: Insulation and calcium silicate pipe

    Supply of insulation and calcium silicate pipe. Closing date: 5 August 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Laboratory equipment

    Supply of a laboratory gas chromatograph. Closing date: 27 August 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Mine pillars

    Supply of mine pillars. Closing date: 9 August 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Oil exploration well drilling monitoring services

    Provision of H2S monitoring services for the drilling of oil exploration wells. Closing date: 6 September 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Oil field development

    Development of oil fields. Closing date: not stated

  • IRAN TENDER: Road rehabilitation

    Rehabilitation of a road. Closing date: 13 August 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Thermal electric unit heaters

    Supply of high pressure heaters. Closing date: not stated

  • IRAN TENDER: Tractors

    Supply of 30 tractors. Closing date: 5 August 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Tube bundle

    Supply of tube bundle for heat exchangers. Closing date: 29 July 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Tug boat and vessel charter

    Charter of tug boats, supply vessels and an optional fast boat for supporting offshore wells services. Closing date: 23 August 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Wastewater treatment plant project (1) Cancelled

    Supply, manufacturing, installation and commissioning of electromechanical equipment and carrying out construction works for a wastewater treatment plant. Closing date: 31 July 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Wastewater treatment plant project (2) Cancelled

    Supply, manufacturing, installation and commissioning of electromechanical equipment and carrying out construction works for a wastewater treatment plant. Closing date: 31 July 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Water supply projects

    Carrying out two water supply projects. Closing date: 15 August 2008.

  • Iranian oil company creates new position for Fard

    National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) has promoted its long-serving international affairs director to a newly created position as part of a revamp of its senior management.

  • IRAQ TENDER: Air-cooled chillers

    Supply of two package air-cooled chillers. Closing date: 7 August 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Building renovation works

    Carrying out renovation works to a building. Closing date: 10 August 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Centrifugal pumps

    Supply of heavy-duty centrifugal pumps. Closing date: 7 August 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Oil field line pipe

    Supply of line pipe, sleeves, pipe fittings and valves for an oil field. Closing date: 24 August 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Oil producer directional well drilling

    Drilling and completion of seven oil producer directional wells. Closing date: 15 September 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Pick-up trucks and buses

    Supply of 31 pick-up trucks and 25 buses Closing date: 23 July 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Pumps

    Supply, installation and operation of pumps. Closing date: 27 July 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Reciprocating gas compressor

    Supply of a heavy-duty reciprocating gas compressor. Closing date: 7 August 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Refinery pipes and fittings

    Supply of pipes and fittings for a refinery. Closing date: 10 August 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Road paving works

    Paving of a road. Closing date: 14 August 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Road rehabilitation audit

    Provision of an audit of an emergency road rehabilitation project. Closing date: 29 July 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Solid waste management transfer station

    Construction of a solid waste management transfer station. Closing date: 15 August 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Stadium construction

    Construction of a stadium Closing date: 21 July 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Workshop equipment

    Supply of workshop equipment as part of an emergency disabilities project. Closing date: 21 August 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Workshop equipment (Closing date extension)

    Supply of workshop equipment as part of an emergency disabilities project. New closing date: 8 September 2008

  • Iraq to buy security vehicles and weapons in $206m deal

    Iraq is to buy 160 armoured security vehicles and associated weapons from the US, in a deal worth up to $206m.

  • Iraqi port traffic doubles

    Imports at Iraq's main port have doubled since April due to the government's crackdown on Shiite militias in Basra province, reported Reuters. The Umm Qasr port, entry point for 80% of Iraq's imports, is running at full capacity, with container ships having to double bank at the investment-starved facility's 22 berths, officials said.

  • Japan seeks Middle East partners for investment fund

    Export credit agency the Japanese Bank for International Co-operation (JBIC) is seeking support from Middle East governments for a new investment fund.

  • Jeddah inks deal for new terminal

    Saudi Arabia's General Authority for Civil Aviation has signed an agreement with Aéroports de Paris Company of France, which will provide design and engineering services for the first phase of King Abdul Aziz International Airport's (KAIA) new airport terminal in Jeddah, Arab News has reported. The new terminal, with 74 jet bridges is designed to receive 30 million passengers annually and would be ready by 2012.

  • JGC wins major Algerian plant work

    A consortium led by Japan’s JGC Corporation has won a $470m contract to build a gas processing plant at the Rhourde Nouss field in the southeast of Algeria.

  • Jordan Aviation signs lease deal

    Jordan Aviation has signed an agreement with Safi Airways whereby the group will lease its B737-300 aircraft on an ACMI basis. The agreement begins this month and operates on a renewable contract. The aircraft will be based in Kabul and will fly routes between Afghanistan and the GCC.

  • Jordan seeks donors for $6bn cross-border rail project

    Jordan has launched a steering committee and will seek international donors to build a $6bn rail project linking the country’s port at Aqaba with the Iraqi industrial city of Zarqa.

  • JORDAN TENDER: Climate change consultancy services: Closing date extension

    Provision of international climate change consultancy services. New closing date: 22 July 2008

  • JORDAN TENDER: Gasoline

    Supply of unleaded gasoline. Closing date: 5 August 2008

  • JORDAN TENDER: Wastewater treatment plant and effluent reuse facilities

    Construction and completion of a wastewater treatment plant and effluent reuse facilities. Closing date: 14 September 2008

  • JORDAN TENDER: Water transmission system rehabilitation

    Rehabilitation of the northern governorates water transmission system. Closing date: 21 August 2008

  • Jordan’s economic growth falls short of forecast in first quarter

    Jordan’s economy slowed down more than expected in the first three months of this year, according to the government’s Department of Statistics.

  • Jordanian MPs call for more transparent fuel pricing

    Members of Jordan’s parliament have requested that the government becomes more transparent about how it sets the price of petrol, diesel and gas amid growing popular unrest at the rising cost of fuel.

  • Jordan's economic growth to fall to 4.4 per cent in 2008

    Jordan’s economic growth will fall to 4.4 per cent in 2008, increasing the pressure on the already deteriorating public finances, according to a former government minister.

  • Kalpataru bids low for Oman gas pipeline

    India’s Kalpataru Power Transmission is low bidder at OR19.3m ($50.7m) for the contract to build the Oman Gas Company (OGC) gas pipeline network in southern Oman.

  • Kayala flies to Cairo

    Kayala Airline has launched its flight to Cairo International Airport. The business travel carrier operated by Saudi-based National Air Services has rebranded and also recently launched its Jeddah-Dubai route.

  • Kazarooni starts earthworks on Escape project in Ajman

    The local Kazarooni Contracting Company has begun earthmoving work for the Escape project in Ajman.

  • Kempinski to manage new hotel in Dubai

    Investment Corporation of Dubai has signed a management agreement with Kempinski Hotels to operate the new five-star hotel and serviced apartments being built at One Za'abeel, the 36-storey mixed-use development launched recently by the ICD in Dubai. The One Za'abeel Kempinski Hotel, which will open in 2011, is part of the three-tower One Za'abeel complex at the Dubai World Trade Centre roundabout.

  • Kuwait Airways wins $82m legal costs from Baghdad

    Kuwait Airways Corporation (KAC) has won $82m from Baghdad for legal costs incurred during its 18-year case against Iraq’s national airline.

  • Kuwait extends deadline for Al-Zour refinery pipeline

    State upstream operator Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) has extended the bid deadline by a month to 24 August for the major contract to build feedstock pipelines for the state’s $15bn grassroots refinery at Al-Zour.

  • Kuwait Finance House profits up 29 per cent

    Kuwait Finance House (KFH) has reported a 29 per cent increase in second quarter profits to KD83.9m ($315.2m), and says it is looking to expand into Saudi Arabia and other GCC states.

  • Kuwait firm selected for hospital car park contract

    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.

  • Kuwait hospital deadline extended for third time

    The deadline for bids for the Jaber al-Ahmed al-Sabah hospital in Kuwait has been extended for a third time.

  • Kuwait inflation stabilises at 11 per cent

    Inflation in Kuwait has moderated slightly to 11.08 per cent for the year to May, compared to 11.4 per cent for the year to April.

  • Kuwait invites bids for Burgan pipeline job

    State upstream operator Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) has invited seven Grade-1 local contractors to submit bids by 19 August for a contract to build a new oil pipeline between gathering centre 7 and manifold TB-1 at the Burgan field, in southeast Kuwait.

  • Kuwait invites bids for oil field pilot water facility

    State upstream operator Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) has invited five international oil field services contractors to submit bids for the contract to design, install and operate a new pilot water injection plant at its Dharif Marrat oil field.

  • Kuwait invites prequalifiers for airport construction work

    Kuwait’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has invited contractors to prequalify for a construction package at Kuwait International Airport.

  • Kuwait issues drainage and sanitation tenders

    Kuwait’s Ministry of Public Works has issued two tenders for the construction, completion and maintenance of roads, rainwater drainage and sanitary services in the East Qurain area.

  • Kuwait issues drainage tender

    Kuwait’s Ministry of Public Works has issued the latest tender as part of wider plans to improve sanitary drainage networks in the country.

  • Kuwait ministry issues road tenders

    Two tenders have been issued for road improvements in Kuwait, with a total value of KD35m ($132m).

  • Kuwait restarts prequalification notice for liquefied petroleum gas plant

    State-owned Kuwait Oil Tanker Company (KOTC) has reissued the prequalification notice for the contract to build its planned liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) filling plant at Umm Alaish.

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Chemicals

    Supply of chemicals for power and water distillation stations. Closing date: 26 August 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Clinical waste units

    Construction, operation and maintenance of two clinical waste units. Closing date: 12 August 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Educational supplies and services

    Provision of supplies and educational services. Closing date: 2 September 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Electrical meters

    Supply of electrical meters. Closing date: 31 August 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Expressway maintenance works (171)

    Carrying out general maintenance works to an expressway. Closing date: 12 August 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Expressway maintenance works (172)

    Carrying out general maintenance works to expressways. Closing date: 12 August 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Expressway maintenance works (174)

    Carrying out general maintenance works to expressways. Closing date: 31 August 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Landscaping works

    Carrying out landscaping works at public beaches. Closing date: 9 September 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Marine platform treatment works

    Carrying out treatment works at a marine platform. Closing date: 12 August 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Ministry construction and maintenance works

    Carrying out construction, completion and maintenance for a ministry. Closing date: 14 September 2008 .

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Mosque construction (Jahra)

    Construction, completion and maintenance of a mosque. Closing date: 10 August 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Mosque construction (Sabah al-Salem)

    Demolition, reconstruction, completion and maintenance of a mosque. Closing date: 10 August 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Mosque construction (Yarmouk)

    Demolition, reconstruction, completion and maintenance of a mosque. Closing date: 10 August 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Power network and cable emergency works

    Carrying out emergency power network and cable works. Closing date: 7 September 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Road construction and maintenance (198)

    Carrying out general maintenance and construction works for external and border roads. Closing date: 26 August 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Road construction and maintenance (199)

    Carrying out general maintenance and construction works for external and border roads. Closing date: 27 August 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Road, rainwater drainage and sanitary services (1)

    Construction, completion and maintenance of roads, rainwater drainage, sanitary and other services. Closing date: 14 September 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Road, rainwater drainage and sanitary services (2)

    Construction, completion and maintenance of roads, rainwater drainage, sanitary and other services. Closing date: 14 September 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Transformer stations (1)

    Supply and installation of five main transformer stations. Closing date: 26 August 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Transformer stations (2)

    Supply and installation of five main transformer stations. Closing date: 19 August 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Water injection plant O&M

    Provision of operation and maintenance (O&M) services for two surplus water injection plants. Closing date: 14 September 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Water pumping station and chlorine plant ceiling cranes

    Repair, maintenance and replacement of ceiling cranes at water pumping stations and chlorine plants. Closing date: 7 September 2008

  • Kuwait’s Mushrif to raise KD14m ($53m) capital

    Kuwait’s Mushrif Trading & Contracting Company is in the process of raising capital valued at KD14m ($53m).

  • Landbridge company licensed by Riyadh

    Saudi Arabia’s Council of Ministers has licensed the establishment of a joint stock company to oversee the $5bn Saudi Landbridge project.

  • Landmark to launch 10 hotels in UAE, KSA

    UAE-based Landmark Hotel Management has announced that it will be launching ten Shariah-compliant hotels and serviced apartments in the UAE and Saudi Arabia by the end of 2010. Six of the ten upcoming projects will be launched in Dubai, two in Abu Dhabi, one in Fujairah and one in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

  • Layia Oak Hotel & Residence set to open

    Layia Oak Hotel & Residence, the first full service hotel property for Layia Hospitality, is set to open at the end of the summer in Dubai. The 15-storey, 161 unit property is located off Sheikh Zayed Road, opposite the Dubai Media and Internet Cities and Knowledge Village, and a short walk from the Emaar Business Park. It will offer a selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments.

  • LCCs adopt 'hybrid' services

    Many low-cost carriers in the Middle East are adopting a 'hybrid' system of services to become more competitive, reported Khaleej Times. Hybrid carriers introduce three or more full-service characteristics such as international routes, global distribution system, code share agreements, connecting flights, multiple fares all the time, and advanced ticketing procedures. Up to 59% of 123 self-nominated LCCs worldwide have either evolved into full-service airlines or were part of an emerging bree

  • LEBANON TENDER: Archaeological and conservation consultancy services

    Provision of design and supervision services for archaeological and conservation projects. Closing date: 26 August 2008

  • LEBANON TENDER: Medical equipment and furniture (Closing date extension)

    Supply and installation of medical equipment and furniture for a hospital. New closing date: 22 July 2008

  • LEBANON TENDER: Municipal infrastructure beneficiary assessment

    Carrying out a beneficiary assessment as part of a first municipal infrastructure project. Closing date: 31 July 2008

  • Libya signs Ras Lanuf refinery deal

    Libya’s National Oil Corporation (NOC) has signed a $2.5bn agreement with the UAE-based Star Consortium for the upgrade of the Ras Lanuf refinery, the country's largest.

  • LIBYA TENDER: Aviation services

    Supply of fixed-wing aviation services for drilling and seismic activities. Closing date: 6 August 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Drilling operations wireline services

    Provision of wireline services to support offshore drilling operations. Closing date: 3 August 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Drilling rig

    Supply of a 1,500hp, fast-moving SCR drilling rig. Closing date: 15 July 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Exploration well casing

    Provision of casing for exploration wells. Closing date: 13 July 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Floating drilling unit

    Supply of a floating drilling unit for planned offshore drilling operations. Closing date: 4 August 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Logistics base support services

    Provision of logistics base support services for drilling activities. Closing date: 29 August 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Oil field EPIC services

    Provision of engineering, procurement, installation and commissioning (EPIC) services for an oil field project. Closing date: 23 July 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Onshore and offshore surface logging services

    Provision of onshore and offshore surface logging services. Closing date: 17 July 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Seismic data acquisition quality control services

    Provision of quality control supervision services for 2D and 3D seismic data acquisition. Closing date: 27 July 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Waste management and tank cleaning services

    Provision of waste management and tank cleaning services. Closing date: 17 July 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Water injection well tubing

    Provision of tubing for water injection wells. Closing date: 17 July 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Water treatment electrical system revamp

    Revamping of an electrical system for the treatment of water. Closing date: 17 July 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Water well drilling

    Provision of water well drilling services. Closing date: 22 July 2008

  • Libya’s National Oil Corporation signs joint ventures

    Libya’s state-owned National Oil Corporation (NOC) has signed two major deals with international partners to ensure the continuing flow of foreign investment into the country.

  • Limitless breaks ground on Jordan's tallest buildings

    Dubai-based Limitless has broken ground on its $300m Sanaya Amman towers project in Jordan, at a ceremony attended by Jordanian Prime Minister Nader al-Dahabi and Omar Maani, mayor of Amman.

  • Liquidity grows by 32 per cent in Bahrain

    Liquidity in Bahrain has grown by more than 32 per cent for the second month running, figures released by the Central Bank of Bahrain show.

  • Local firm Al-Qasim wins maritime college contract in Oman

    Local firm Al-Qasim Trading & Contracting has been awarded the construction contract for a new college building in Sohar.

  • Locals bid low for maintenance work

    The local SKS Group is the low bidder for the contract to operate and maintain power and water treatment plants for the Ministry of Electricity & Water.

  • Lootah wins Abu Dhabi pipeline deals

    The local Lootah BC Gas has won two contracts to build and convert gas pipelines in and around Abu Dhabi city, totaling about AED145m ($40m).

  • Low trading volumes undermine case for Dubai Financial Market

    Lower than expected trading volumes at Dubai Financial Market could mean it missing its earnings targets in 2008, according to US investment bank Morgan Stanley.

  • MA Kharafi launches hospitality firm

    Kuwaiti conglomerate MA Kharafi Group has created an independent hospitality, tourism and real estate investment company based in Geneva, Switzerland, under the name of Sovereign Hospitality Holdings. The new company has regional offices in South Africa and Egypt, and has been launched to expand through strategic acquisitions, financing and developing assets in the hotel, real estate and tourism industry in Singapore and worldwide.

  • Maaden gains 54 per cent on first day of trading

    Shares in Saudi Arabian Mining Corporation (Maaden) have increased in value by 54 per cent on the first day of trading on the Saudi stock exchange (Tadawul), following its $2.47bn initial public offering (IPO) earlier this month.

  • Maaden power plant award due in August

    Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Maaden) will hold clarification meetings with the two bidders for the Ras al-Zour captive power plant project on 28 and 29 July.

  • Ma'an to build metals factory

    Ma'an Development Company has partnered with Hadeed Emirates Construction to develop a metals factory within the 'Industrial Park' of the Ma'an Development Area. The factory will be developed in two phases and will include production lines requiring more than 250 operating staff.

  • Major hotel expansion planned for RAK

    Over two dozen five-star hotels and apartments are to be built in the UAE emirate of Ras Al Khaimah within next five years, reported Arab News. The hotels are expected to more than double the current supply of hotel rooms in the emirate, helping accommodate the projected 2.5 million tourists in Ras Al Khaimah by 2012. Hotels that will be launching projects in the emirate include BanyanTree, Jumeirah Group, Millennium Hotels, InterContinental Hotel Group, Rotana Group, The Luxury Collection an

  • Malaysians to build power plant in Ajman

    The government of Ajman has signed an agreement with Malaysia’s MMC Utilities, a subsidiary of MMC Corporation, for the development of a power plant in the emirate.

  • Manazel bids low for Saudi university contract

    The Saudi-based contractor Manazel is the low bidder for the construction contract at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah.

  • Maroc Telecom increases customer numbers by 21 per cent

    Maroc Telecom has grown its customer numbers in its home market by 21 per cent to 14.2 million over the last year, according to the company’s latest financial results.

  • Maroc Telecom profits climb 14 per cent

    Maroc Telecom, the monopoly fixed-line telecoms operator in Morocco, increased its net profit by 14 per cent to some MD4.5bn ($610.5m) in the first half of 2008.

  • Marriott set to launch in Bahrain

    Marriott International has announced that it will open its BD43 million ($114m) Marriott Executive Apartments in Bahrain on October 1, reported the Bahrain Tribune. This is the maiden entry of the Marriott brand in Bahrain, and the third destination in the Middle East region for Marriott Executive Apartments after two projects in Dubai.

  • Masdar signs emission reduction deal with Bahrain

    Abu Dhabi’s Masdar initiative has signed an agreement with Bahrain-based Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC) to reduce carbon dioxide emissions at GPIC’s fertiliser complex.

  • Mashreqbank reports profits up 38.4 per cent

    Mashreqbank has reported a AED706.8m ($193m) profit for the second quarter of 2008, a 38 per cent increase on the same period last year.

  • Maximus on $10m fleet overhaul

    Maximus Air Cargo announced it is undertaking a $10m overhaul of its Ilyushin fleet to extend its operating lifespan by seven years. The overhaul and upgrade programme is being undertaken with Aviazapchast in conjunction with the Ilyushin Design Bureau.

  • Maximus posts $45.5m sales in H1

    Maximus Air Cargo announced it has almost reached a five-fold increase in aircraft hours sold during the first half of 2008 compared to the same period last year. The company made a gross sales of $45.5m, compared to $47.4m for all of 2007.

  • Meditel to invest in Moroccan mobile phone network

    Meditel, the holder of the second mobile phone licence in Morocco, will invest about MAD4.2bn ($573m) in its telecoms network over the next two years.

  • Middle East business aviation market to reach $800m by 2012

    The Middle East business aviation market will be worth AED3bn ($800m) within four years, according to Dubai’s Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed al-Maktoum.

  • Middle East contracts awarded: July 2008

    Over $17bn worth of contracts were awarded across the Middle East region in July, according to this selected checklist compiled from MEED reports throughout the month.

  • Moroccan inflation set to rise by year end

    Inflation in Morocco could reach 2.7 per cent by the end of the year, according to Abdellatif Jouahri, chairman of the central bank, Bank Al Maghreb.

  • MOROCCO TENDER: Drinking water supply

    Provision of drinking water. Closing date: 21 October 2008

  • MOROCCO TENDER: Energy trading risk management system

    Supply and setting up of an energy trading risk management system. Closing date: 22 October 2008

  • MOROCCO TENDER: Overhead power line construction

    Study and construction of overhead power lines. Closing date: 3 September 2008

  • MOROCCO TENDER: Power line construction

    Study and construction of power lines. Closing date: 3 September 2008

  • MOROCCO TENDER: Power lines

    Study and construction of power lines. Closing date: 3 September 2008

  • MOROCCO TENDER: Substation connection works

    Connection of a substation. Closing date: 3 September 2008

  • MOROCCO TENDER: Water supply and sanitation equipment (31)

    Supply, transport and setting up of electro-mechanical equipment for a water supply and sanitation project. Closing date: 17 September 2008

  • MOROCCO TENDER: Water supply and sanitation equipment (32)

    Supply, transport and setting up of mechanical and electrical equipment for a water supply and sanitation project. Closing date: 17 September 2008

  • Mubadala announces $8bn partnership with GE

    Mubadala, the investment company owned by the Abu Dhabi government, has announced an $8bn partnership with US-based conglomerate GE to establish a commercial financial business.

  • Mubadala to set up aerostructures

    Mubadala Development Company said it is planning to build a $500m composite aerostructures plant to manufacture hi-tech aerostructures composite components and assemblies in the UAE. The plant eyes initially to manufacture components such as spoilers and flap-track fairings then evolve into developing primary structures.

  • Multiplex in talks for Doha tower

    Australian property and construction group Multiplex is understood to be negotiating with Qatar General Insurance & Reinsurance Company for the contract to build the estimated $250m Doha World Trade Centre tower.

  • Muscat issues tenders for Salalah port expansion

    Muscat is inviting bidders for the latest stage in the expansion of the southern port at Salalah.

  • Mushrif shareholders approve proposal to raise capital

    Kuwait’s Mushrif Trading & Contracting Company has had its proposed capital raising of KD14m ($53m) approved by shareholders.

  • Mushrif to relocate to Abu Dhabi

    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.

  • 'Mystery riders' to monitor Dubai buses

    Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority plans to use 'mystery riders' to monitor bus drivers under a new initiative to improve service, RTA has announced. As part of the initiative, an undercover official will ride buses and observe the driver's driving skills and his interaction with passengers.

  • Nakheel awards Al-Furjan villa contract to Al-Shafar

    Dubai-based developer Nakheel has awarded the local Al-Shafar Transport and Contracting Company a AED600m ($163m) contract to build 300 villas and terrace homes at its Al-Furjan development in the Jebel Ali area.

  • NAS wins GSA for Jet Airways

    National Aviation Services (NAS) has been appointed as General Sales Agents for Jet Airways Cargo in Kuwait. NAS will represent Jet Airways Cargo in Kuwait, operating from the NAS Cargo Terminal at the Kuwait International Airport and will also provide sales and service to its cargo customers.

  • Nasair adds 3 international routes

    Nasair, the first budget carrier in Saudi Arabia, has announced today the addition of new international routes to Egypt, Lebanon and Jordan. The carrier said it will run an average of 4 to 6 weekly flights from Jeddah and Riyadh to Alexandria, Beirut, and Amman beginning July 23rd.

  • National Bank of Abu Dhabi increases profits by 68 per cent

    National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD) has reported profits for the second quarter of 2008 of AED1bn ($272m), up 68 per cent compared to the same period last year, driven by increased demand for loans.

  • National Bank of Fujairah finalises $210m loan

    National Bank of Fujairah has completed a $210m loan to help it refinance existing debt and expand its loan portfolio.

  • National Bank of Kuwait profits up 21 per cent

    National Bank of Kuwait has reported an increase of 21 per cent in profits for the first half of the year, to $661.3m, driven by the bank’s core business.

  • New ferry serves Muscat-Khasab

    A diesel-powered passenger ferry has been launched in Oman to link Muscat with Khasab in Musandam Peninsula, Oman Observer has reported. The National Ferries Company has launched the maiden vogage of 'Shinas' from Port Sultan Qaboos to Bandar Khairan. Services from Muscat-Khasab-Muscat begin on July 30 and Hormuz will join the service in two months.

  • New road projects at Dubai airport

    The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority has launched new projects to improve the road network around Dubai International Airport. Improvements on the airport road include the provision of an additional entry point to motorists driving from Al Rashidiya towards the airport car park. Another direct entry point will be provided to serve motorists driving from Deira towards the parking zone.

  • Nexans signs contract for Qatar power expansion

    France’s Nexans has signed a contract for the phase 8 expansion and development of Qatar’s electricity transmission network.

  • Nikki Beach to open in Egypt

    Nikki Beach is launching its first resort in Egypt at Hacienda Bay. The project is part of Palm Hills Development's hospitality plan of developing 4,500 hotel rooms in Egypt. The resort will feature a boutique hotel with 125 rooms facing the beach and golf course, 25 beach front cabanas, 55 Nikki Beach villas, Nikki Beach Club and Pool bar, VIP Lounge Club, signature restaurants and a Nikki Spa and Fitness facility.

  • Nurol to build Jumeirah Park villas

    Turkey’s Nurol Group has been awarded an estimated AED1bn ($272m) contract to build 462 villas at Jumeirah Park in Dubai.

  • Nurol wins canal contract at Shams Abu Dhabi

    Turkey's Nurol been awarded a contract worth AED100m ($27m) to build canals and bridges at the Shams Abu Dhabi development on Reem island.

  • Oil prices drop below $125 on US demand fears

    Oil prices ended July by dropping by more than $2 a barrel as new economic data cast a further shadow over crude demand in the key US market.

  • Oil prices fall by record amounts

    Oil prices experienced their biggest one-day fall in 17 years on 15 July as speculators and traders reacted to warnings by the Federal Reserve that the US economy was weakening.

  • Oil prices hover near seven-week low

    Oil prices rebounded slightly from a seven-week low on 23 July but remained well under $130 a barrel as the demand outlook continued to weaken in the key US market.

  • Oil prices remain high on Iran tension

    Oil prices eased back from record highs but remained above $135 on continuing geopolitical tension in the Middle East after Iran test-fired ballistic missiles following recent Israeli military manoeuvres in the Mediterranean.

  • Oiltanking invites bids for Jebel Ali tank expansion

    Germany’s Oiltanking has invited international contractors to submit bids by 5 August for a contract to expand its petroleum products storage terminal at Jebel Ali in Dubai.

  • Oman tourism focuses on culture

    Oman is marketing itself as an upmarket tourist destination with a focus on culture and adventure, in contrast to the more commercial offerings of its immediate neighbours, reported the UK's Financial Times. The sultanate is building museums in some of its 500 ancient forts and plans to turn a mountain village in an undeveloped region into hotel apartments as part of a project that will highlight the traditions of rural Arabian culture. Tourism currently accounts for little more than 1% of Om

  • Oman Air appoints new CEO

    Oman Air has appointed Peter Hill as the airlines's new Chief Executive Officer. Peter Hill has served in senior positions for several major international carriers and will provide his expertise as a resource for all Oman Air employees.

  • Oman Air enjoys record rise in passenger numbers

    Oman Air has enjoyed a 50 per cent rise in passenger numbers in the first half of 2008.

  • Oman Air passengers 50% up in H1

    Oman Air's passenger traffic has jumped 50% higher during the first half of the year, compared to the same period last year. The airline has carried a total of 965,459 passengers. The increase is attributed to the launch of new destinations as well as rescheduling some of its flights.

  • Oman allocation up for Duqm port

    Oman has increased its allocation for the Duqm Port and Dry Dock project to OR700m from the initial investment of OR368.9m, Gulf News has reported. The allocation will be used for the expansion of the overall capacity and size of the port to accommodate supertankers and mega-sized chemical carriers.

  • Oman Gas Company tenders new compressor work

    State-owned Oman Gas Company (OGC) has invited local and international contractors to submit bids by 11 August to build a gas compressor station at the Nimr field in the south of the sultanate.

  • Oman inflation hits 13.2 per cent

    Inflation in Oman hit a record high of 13.2 per cent in May, driven mainly by food prices and rental costs that are inflating prices across the region.

  • Oman issues construction tender for Sohar airport

    Oman has issued a tender to prepare the ground for an airport at Sohar in the first phase of civil works.

  • Oman issues wastewater tenders

    Oman Wastewater Services Company (OWSC) has issued a new tender for civil works on the Muscat wastewater project.

  • Oman plans new industrial park

    The Omani government is developing a huge industrial hub and free trade zone in Duqm, a remote coastal town on the Arabian Sea. Spread on 24,000 hectares, the industrial park will be adjoining a major port complex that includes a ship repair yard being developed in association with South Korea's Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering. The ship repair yard, due to be launched in 2010, is being designed to accommodate some of the largest vessels in service today, and will rank only second t

  • Oman seeks water consultant

    Bidders have until 18 August to submit proposals for consultancy services to Oman’s Public Authority for Electricity & Water (PAEW).

  • OMAN TENDER: Airport expansion insurance

    Provision of quotation slip airport contractors’ aviation liability insurance for an international airport expansion project. Closing date: 8 September 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Bauxite and aluminium oxide

    Supply of 20,000/30,000 tonnes of bauxite and aluminium oxide. Closing date: 12 August 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Clinker

    Supply of 300,000 tonnes of clinker. Closing date: 12 August 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Industrial estate expansion

    Expansion of an industrial estate. Closing date: 25 August 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Land reclamation

    Carrying out land reclamation works. Closing date: 8 September 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Museum construction consultancy services

    Provision of consultancy services for the construction of a natural history museum. Closing date: 8 September 2008.

  • OMAN TENDER: Port berth design and construction supervision

    Design and construction supervision of berths at a port. Closing date: 11 August 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Power station construction

    Construction of a 126-MW power station. Closing date: 17 November 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Storage reservoirs

    Provision of additional storage reservoirs. Closing date: 8 September 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Wastewater project

    Carrying out a wastewater project. Closing date: 8 September 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Water network system O&M

    Operation and maintenance (O&M) of a water network system. Closing date: 18 August 2008

  • Opposition groups nominate candidate for Lebanese telecoms minister

    Lebanon’s opposition parties have nominated their own candidate as telecoms minister in the new national unity government, threatening the privatisation of the country’s two mobile phone operators.

  • Orascom hotel revenue up 30%

    Egyptian tourism group Orascom Development Holding said its total preliminary hotel revenue rose 29.6% to 409.2 million Egyptian pounds ($76.63m) in the first half of 2008, reported Reuters. Total hotel revenue in the first six months of 2007 was 315.8 million pounds. The company said the increase came as its occupancy rate improved to 81.4% from 67.9% a year earlier.

  • Palestinian industrial output stagnates in first half of the year

    Industrial production in the West Bank and Gaza rose 0.79 per cent during the first half of 2008.

  • Palm Marine inks Maldives deal

    Yacht builder Palm Marine has signed an exclusive dealership rights in the Maldives to V.A Private Limited. The Maldives-based company will sell Palm Marine yachts exclusively to buyers in the Maldives and also use a few yachts to charter VIP customers from their two island resorts, Filitheyo and Medhufushi.

  • Palm Utilities finishes phase of cooling project

    Palm Utilities has concluded the first phase of a project to supply cooling to the Atlantis on Palm Jumeirah Crescent and Jumeirah Lake Towers in Dubai. The projects, when concluded, are expected to provide 120,000 tonnes of refrigeration to Palm Jumeirah Crescent and 140,000 tonnes to the Jumeirah Lake Towers. The projects form part of the utility's expansion programme and would provide fully integrated and efficient utility services to the developments.

  • Petrofac group in front for $4bn Algerian gas plant deal

    A consortium of UAE-based Petrofac International and Indonesia’s Inti Karya Persada Tehnik (IKPT) has been provisionally selected for the contract to build the new 4.3-million-tonne-a-year liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant at Arzew following the public opening of commercial bids on 12 July.

  • Petroleum Development Oman tenders Amal power plant

    Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), the firm responsible for more than 80 per cent of the sultanate’s oil production capacity, has tendered a contract covering the construction of a power plant at the Amal field, 700 kilometres south of Muscat.

  • Petrovietnam to begin Iranian oil exploration work

    Vietnam's state-run Petrovietnam Exploration Production Corporation is to start work on the exploration and development of the Danan oil block in Iran on 1 August, as part of a four-year deal agreed with National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC).

  • Poverty gap widens between West Bank and Gaza

    The gap in prosperity between the West Bank and Gaza Strip has widened dramatically in the past year, according to the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS).

  • Profits treble at Deyaar Development

    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.

  • Qatar Airways launches promotion

    Consolidated Gulf Co and Qatar Airways' Privilege Club have jointly unveiled a 'Navigate and Travel for Free' promotion on the purchase of Nokia phones. Under the offer, customers can earn 6,000 Qmiles with every purchase of Nokia navigator phones N95 8GB, N95, N82, E90 and Nokia 6110. The Qmiles earned are enough to redeem an Economy Class award ticket to Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Dammam, Dubai, Kuwait, Muscat and Riyadh.

  • Qatar Airways to buy four Airbus A321s

    Qatar Airways has signed an agreement for the purchase of four Airbus A321 aircraft. Qatar Airway's Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said the additional A321 aircraft will further assist Qatar Airways in the rapid development of its regional network. The Doha-based airline's current in-service fleet consists of 19 A320 family variants, one A300-600R, three A300-600 freighters, 31 A330s, and four A340-600s.

  • Qatar awards Dukhan gas deal to France’s Technip

    Qatar Petroleum (QP) has awarded a $6.7m design contract to France’s Technip for a new gas sweetening unit at Dukhan, to improve its domestic fuel gas facilities.

  • Qatar buys Boeing planes in $400m defence deal

    Qatar has agreed to buy two Boeing airlift planes for the country’s armed forces in a deal worth up to $400m.

  • Qatar Petroleum invites firms to tour Al-Shaheen refinery site

    Selected contractors have been invited to tour the site of Qatar Petroleum's (QP) proposed $5bn Al-Shaheen grassroots refinery, in preparation for the submission of technical bids for the main construction package later this year.

  • Qatar places $360m Airbus order

    Qatar Airways has signed a memorandum of understanding to purchase four Airbus A321 aircraft in a deal worth about $360m at list prices.

  • QATAR TENDER: Community centre construction

    Construction of a new community centre. Closing date: 24 August 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Community clinic building works

    Carrying out modification and renovation works a community clinic. Closing date: 10 August 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Digital fibre-optic lines

    Supply of digital fibre-optic lines. Closing date: 17 August 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Office building construction and maintenance

    Construction, completion and maintenance of an administration office building. Closing date: 19 August 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Offshore accommodation unit

    Supply of an offshore accommodation unit. Closing date: 19 August 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Refinery burners

    Supply of burners for refineries. Closing date: 17 August 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Refinery HMI system upgrade

    Provision of engineering, procurement, installation and commissioning (EPIC) services for the upgrade of a human machine interface (HMI) system. Closing date: 31 August 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Reservoirs and pipelines

    Provision of EPC services for reinforced concrete reservoirs and pipelines. Closing date: 7 September 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Road development consultancy

    Provision of consultancy services for the development of roads. Closing date: 5 August 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Road development consultancy services

    Provision of consultancy services for the development of roads. Closing date: 5 August 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Roads and infrastructure

    Reconstruction of roads and associated infrastructure. Closing date: 14 September 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Sewage system operation and maintenance

    Carrying out a project to operate and maintain a sewage system. Closing date: 27 July 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Substation maintenance

    Carrying out maintenance works at substations. Closing date: 17 August 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Water reservoirs and pipelines

    Engineering, procurement and construction of water reservoirs and associated works. Closing date: 17 August 2008

  • Qatari bank to launch in Libya

    Qatari bank Masraf Al Rayan has received approval from the Qatar Central Bank to open a representative office in Libya.

  • QE2 gets home in Palm Jumeirah

    Nakheel has revealed QE2 will have its new home on the eastern trunk side of Palm Jumeirah. Dubai World has purchased QE2 last year, and will embark on her journey from Southampton, England to Dubai in November. Plans for QE2 include transformation into a floating hotel, featuring public promenades, retail outlets, cafes and restaurants, as well as a heritage museum displaying artifacts from the QE2 and maritime history.

  • QP awards environmental monitoring contract to SGS Qatar

    Qatar Petroleum (QP) is to create a new state-wide environmental inspection programme after awarding a monitoring contract to SGS Qatar, a testing and inspection company, for work on its sites and facilities.

  • Rabigh power plant bids due in August

    Bids for the phase 6 extension of Saudi Electricity Company’s (SEC) Rabigh power plant are due on 20 August.

  • Radisson SAS opens in Aqaba

    The Rezidor Hotel Group announced it has opened the Radisson SAS Bay Resort in Aqaba. The resort is owned by Shatea Al-Kamar for Tourism Investment Co. Limited, offering 336 rooms, consisting of standard, deluxe, superior, Tala Bay rooms as well as junior and executive suites.

  • RAK gets 847 new companies

    Ras Al Khaimah Free Trade Zone Authority has reported some 847 new companies registered during the first half of the year, bringing the total companies to 4,773 by end of June, said news reports. These companies are estimated to contribute Dhs10bn to the Ras Al Khaimah economy.

  • RAK to open 5-star hotels

    Up to 20 new five star hotels will open in Ras Al Khaimah over the next five years the emirate's tourism department has announced. Over 3,700 new rooms will be available by 2012, when the emirate projects that it will receive 2.5 million tourists.

  • Ranya Group to build Dubai Sports City towers

    Dubai-based developer Chapal World has awarded a AED367m ($100m) contract to the local Ranya Group.

  • Ras al-Zour preferred bidder to be selected by October

    Saudi Arabia’s Water & Electricity Company (WEC) will select a preferred bidder for the Ras al-Zour independent water and power project before the end of September, according to sources at the utility.

  • Ras Laffan C deal set to include Islamic financing

    Financing for the $3.7bn Ras Laffan C independent water and power project (IWPP) will now include a $250m Islamic tranche provided by Qatar Islamic Bank and the Islamic Development Bank.

  • Raymond International wins Saudi infrastructure contracts

    The Al-Khobar-based Raymond International Group has won contracts totalling more than $150m, to build infrastructure facilities in the kingdom.

  • Regional exchanges follow global markets with a week of losses

    All four of the Middle East’s largest stock exchanges lost ground this week, showing they are not immune to the bear market that has savaged share prices in the US and Europe.

  • Residential development launched at Dubai Maritime City

    The local property developer, Iris has launched a AED2.5bn ($680m) residential development, to be located in Dubai Maritime City (DMC).

  • Residential property sales at King Abdullah Economic City reach $267m

    Sales of residential property at King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) has reached SR1bn ($267m) according to the developer Emaar, The Economic City.

  • Revaluation risks heavy losses for GCC, UN report

    A report from a UN agency said the revaluation of GCC currencies is unlikely because it could result in large financial losses for regional governments.

  • Review GCC dollar pegs, says Abu Dhabi policy body

    Abu Dhabi’s Department of Planning and Economy (DPE) says the GCC countries should peg their currencies to a basket of world currencies as a means of addressing the region’s inflation problem.

  • Ritz-Carlton launches promotion

    American Express Middle East has launched a new promotion with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. The promotion, exclusive to American Express Cardmembers in the Middle East, enables them to enjoy a complimentary night at any Ritz-Carlton hotel around the world, with every booking made for three consecutive nights. When staying eight consecutive nights, Cardmembers can enjoy two complimentary nights. This offer is available only for online bookings made on The Ritz- Carlton website and is valid

  • Riyad Bank profits increase 7 per cent

    Riyad Bank has reported a 6.8 per cent rise in profits for the second quarter of the year, driven by a 23 per cent rise in the bank’s lending income.

  • Rolls Royce and Mubadala sign deal

    Rolls-Royce and Abu Dhabi's Mubadala Development Company have launched a new company to serve the growing Middle East aviation services market. The new joint venture will offer On-Wing Care through Abu Dhabi Aircraft Technologies, a leading maintenance, repair and overhaul company. Services will include provision for a wide range of specialist line maintenance support services from boroscoping to engine changes for Rolls-Royce Trent family operators in the region.

  • Royal Bank of Scotland and Riyad Bank confirmed for Ras Tanura

    Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) and Saudi Arabia’s Riyad Bank have been confirmed by Saudi Aramco as the financial advisers on the $26bn Ras Tanura refinery and integrated petrochemical project.

  • Royal Commission awards building design contract

    The Royal Commission for Jubail and Yanbu has awarded Saudi Consulting Services a SR40m ($11m) building services design contract.

  • Rubber World wins Dubai contract

    Rubber World Industries, a manufacturer of closed-cell rubber insulation, has won a Dhs1.2m contract to supply rubber insulation products for the Motor City development in Dubai. The agreement is expected to further boost the manufacturer's position as the leader in the Middle East rubber insulation market, with a 80% share, the company said in a statement.

  • Sabb profits rise 25 per cent

    Sabb has reported a 25.2 per cent rise in second quarter profits to SR795m ($212m), on rising income from its loan portfolio and asset management business.

  • Sabic on flat steel venture

    Sabic has announced that its affiliates Safco and Hadeed will construct a facility for the production of flat steel products in Jubail Industrial City, expecting an annual capacity of 1.7 million metric tons. The ownership of the facility is equally shared among the two companies. Hadeed will also construct a rebar and wire rods production facility to add 500K tons annually.

  • Sabic Q2 profit hits SR7.5bn

    The Saudi Basic Industries Corporation has reported its highest quarterly net profits reaching SR7.54bn compared with SR6.47bn in the same period last year, an increase of 17%. Net profits for the first six months increased by 13%, posting SR14.5bn, from SR12.8bn in the same period last year.

  • Sacyr wins Libyan projects

    Spain’s Sacyr Vallehermoso has won three construction contracts in deals worth EU600m ($957m) in Libya through its subsidiary SV Ledico.

  • Safar expands Cathay lane

    A new office has been dedicated to Cathay Pacific in Safar Travel & Tourism in Abu Dhabi. The expansion caters to the increasing number of customers at Safar Travel & Tourism's showroom especially during the summer months. Safar is a General Sales Agents for Cathay Pacific in Abu Dhabi.

  • Safar signs Kayala agreement

    Safar Travel & Tourism, part of the Al Fahim Group, has signed an agreement with Saudi-based National Air Services (NAS) to represent Kayala airline in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. NAS-owned Kayala is a regional business class only airline.

  • Sama capital up by SR200m

    Sama Airlines' shareholders have approved a further SR200m financing for the airline's operations, according to news report. Sama sees the combination of domestic fare cap and escalating oil prices as major hurdle for the airline to take off.

  • Samba profits continue to fall

    Samba has reported a further decline in profits, blaming falling brokerage activities for a second consecutive slump in performance.

  • Sasol reports production delays at Qatar gas venture

    South Africa’s Sasol says production at its Oryx gas-to-liquids (GTL) venture in Qatar has averaged under two-thirds of its 34,000-barrel-a-day (b/d) capacity for the first six months of 2008, due to continued technical hitches.

  • Saudi airport to get new $137m terminal

    King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah is adding a new state-of-the-art terminal with 74 jet bridges to receive both foreign and Saudia planes, reported Arab News. Abdullah Ruhaimy, president of the General Authority for Civil Aviation, has signed a $137m with Aéroports de Paris Company of France to provide design and engineering services for the first phase of KAIA's development project. The new terminal is expected to receive 30 million passengers annually and will be ready by 201

  • Saudi Arabia seeks US military training

    Saudi Arabia is seeking US assistance in retraining the kingdom’s National Guard, in a deal worth up to $1.8bn.

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Building construction (collateral)

    Construction of a social collateral building. Closing date: 23 August 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Building construction (observation)

    Construction of a social observation building. Closing date: 25 August 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Dam construction

    Construction of a dam. Closing date: 30 August 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Dam construction (Tabuk)

    Construction of a dam. Closing date: 30 August 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Database software

    Supply, installation and maintenance of database software. Closing date: 19 July 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Database software

    Supply, installation and maintenance of database software. Closing date: 16 August 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Database software installation

    Supply, installation and maintenance of database software. Closing date: 16 August 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Development centre construction

    Construction of a social development centre building. Closing date: 24 August 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Development centre expansion

    Expansion of a development centre. Closing date: 26 August 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Freight elevator upgrade

    Upgrading of freight elevators. Closing date: 2 August 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Head office construction

    Construction of a special task forces head office. Closing date: 7 September 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Labour camp development

    Carrying out site development for labour camps. Closing date: 8 September 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Landbridge passenger concession

    Granting of a 10-15-year passenger concession on the Saudi Landbridge. Closing date: 23 July 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Oil spill management and clean-up services

    Provision of oil spill management and clean-up services. Closing date: 13 July 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Port maintenance

    Provision of maintenance and cleaning services at a port. Closing date: 26 August 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Royal Commission building complex

    Operation and maintenance of the Royal Commission building complex. Closing date: 18 August 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Sand removal and road maintenance

    Removal of sand and maintenance of access roads and structure pads. Closing date: 30 July 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Sewer water removal (Jeddah)

    Removal of sewer water. Closing date: 16 July 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Sewer water removal (Medina)

    Removal of sewer water. Closing date: 16 July 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Sewer water removal (Tabuk)

    Removal of sewer water. Closing date: 16 July 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Sewer water removal services (Tabuk)

    Provision of sewer water removal services. Closing date: 16 July 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Site preparation works

    Carrying out site preparation works. Closing date: 21 September 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Substation security fencing and lighting

    Installation of security fencing and lighting at seven substations. Closing date: 9 July 2008

  • Saudi Arabian Airlines orders $300M in engines

    Saudi Arabian Airlines has ordered CFM56-5B engines worth $300m to power 22 new Airbus A320 planes, reported AP. Commercial aircraft engine maker CFM International is a 50/50 joint venture between Safran group's Snecma and General Electric. Saudi Arabian Airlines has used the same type of engine in 20 leased Airbus A320s.

  • Saudi Arabian Airlines signs Airbus deal

    Saudi Arabian Airlines has signed a firm contract with Airbus for eight A330-300 wide body aircraft as part of its fleet modernisation plan. The contract follows one deal for 22 Airbus A320s signed at the end of 2007, marking the first agreement between Saudi Arabian Airlines and Airbus for commercial aircraft in 26 years.

  • Saudi cabinet approves Chevron concession extension

    The Saudi cabinet has approved a draft agreement extending the Divided Zone concession, operated by Mina Saud-based Saudi Arabian Chevron (SAC), a subsidiary of the US’ Chevron Corporation.

  • Saudi curbs Umrah visitors from UAE

    Fewer people from the UAE will be able to perform Umrah this year as the Saudi authorities are imposing restrictions on their number, reported Khaleej Times. Previously, there was no limit on Umrah visitors from the UAE, both citizens and residents. The move follows the recently-announced sharp decrease in the UAE quota for Haj pilgrims from 24,500 in 2007 to 6,228 this year.

  • Saudi Electricity Company to sign $1.6bn corporate loan

    Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) is expected to sign a SR6bn ($1.6bn) corporate loan facility by late July as part of its expansion drive to meet demand for power and water in the kingdom.

  • Saudi Gypsum to increase Yanbu plant capacity

    Yanbu-based Saudi Mada Gypsum Company is planning to more than double the plaster production capacity at its Yanbu production facility.

  • Saudi Industrial Services wins approval for rights issue

    Saudi Industrial Services has won approval from the Capital Markets Authority to raise SR322m ($85.9m) in a rights issue.

  • Saudi market falls as investors book profits

    The index of Saudi Arabia's listed companies dropped almost 4 per cent during the week to finish at 8,741 points with Saudi Basic Industries (Sabic), the country's largest floated company, again at the centre of the action.

  • Saudi mortgage law approved by Shura council

    The Shura Council in Saudi Arabia has approved a draft of the country’s mortgage law that is expected to open up a lucrative income stream for the banking system and give more Saudi nationals access to owning their own homes.

  • Saudi plans to privatize airports

    Saudi Arabia's General Commission for Tourism and Antiquities said the government has plans to transform the kingdom's international airports into corporations, Arab News has reported. As major airports in Saudi Arabia undergo improvements, the General Authority for Civil Aviation said the plans will be rolled out gradually, expecting inflow of investments.

  • Saudi Railways signs $163m rolling stock contract

    Saudi Arabia has agreed a $163m contract to buy high-class rolling stock from the Spanish group CAF.

  • Saudi Telecom net profits hit $545m in second quarter

    Saudi Telecom’s net profits climbed 24 per cent to reach SR2bn ($545m) between April and June this year.

  • Saudis spend holidays abroad

    Some 3.5 million Saudi tourists are expected to spend about 35 billion Saudi riyals on tourism in the current year, according to Mohaideb Al Moheidab, chairman of the committee for travel and tourism offices at the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry. However, domestic tourism is expected to fetch only 16% of this total. He said domestic tourism in the Gulf will get a boost in a few years when the onset of Ramadan will fall in the middle of the summer vacation.

  • Selex wins air traffic control contract for Doha airport

    The Italian group Selex Sistemi Integrati has won a contract worth about $105m to design and provide air and ground traffic control systems at Qatar’s New Doha International Airport.

  • Sembcorp evaulates cost of expanding Fujairah 1

    Singapore’s Sembcorp is evaluating quotes from consultants for the project to expand the capacity of the Fujairah 1 independent water and power project.

  • Sharjah launches new taxis

    Sharjah has launched 55 new public taxis, the first of an updated fleet of 800 that will roll onto the emirate's roads over the next few months, according to a Gulf News report. The initiative by the Sharjah Public Transport Corporation comes as a response to public complaints of lack of transport availability.

  • Sharjah to build new roads

    Sharjah will spend Dhs165m on building 32 kilometres of new roads in the Khozamiyah and Tala neighbourhoods, according to Gulf News. This is part of a plan to develop the infrastructure in new communities.

  • Shell bullish on Iraq oil and gas deals

    The UK/Dutch Shell Group hopes to sign short-term technical service agreements in Iraq shortly, in addition to a gas deal, but has failed to give a definitive timeline for either.

  • Ski slope to be built on Jebel Hafeet

    A 3.5km long indoor ski slope is to be built on Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain. The highest mountain in the UAE, much of the ski slope will be built on stilts and encased in a tunnel. It will include a ski jump and the floor will be moveable to provide different ski routes. It will include at least four hotel resorts, with one part way up and one at the top. There will be a golf course with some teeing off points on the mountain side and white water rafting. Plans include making it environmentally fr

  • Sonatrach signs gas export agreements

    Algerian state-energy company Sonatrach has signed gas supply agreements with three international companies.

  • Sonatrach withdraws offer to Petrofac for Arzew plant

    The UAE/Indonesian group of Petrofac International and IKPT has been disqualified from the contract to build the liquefied petroleum gas (LNG) plant at Arzew just days after the client, state energy company Sonatrach, selected it for the $3.9bn contract.

  • Sorouh and Orascom Construction Industries form joint venture

    Real estate giants Sorouh Real Estate and Orascom Construction Industries have formed a joint venture to carry out below-ground work on towers and other large buildings at Sorouh’s developments in the UAE.

  • South Korean visitors to Dubai up 50%

    The number of South Korean visitors arriving at Dubai International Airport increased by 50% in the first half of 2008 compared to the same period last year, according to the Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department. DIA registered the arrival of 32,370 South Korean visitors during the first half of 2008, whereas only 42,000 South Korean visitors passed through the airport in the whole year of 2007.

  • Spa Resources sets up at Etihad lounge

    Spa Resources International has inked a deal with Etihad Airways to set up a spa facility at Etihad's premium lounges in Terminal One, at Abu Dhabi airport. Treatments would include back therapy, face reviving treatment, neck and shoulder recovery therapy and rejuvenating foot and leg massages.

  • St. Regis to debut in Dubai

    Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide has announced plans to build a new property, The St. Regis Dubai and The Residences, in Dubai. The property, which is scheduled to open in 2012, will feature 220 guest rooms, including 44 suites, and 80 branded residences. Offering sweeping views of the Dubai Creek extension, the property will be a featured component of the Starhill Towers & Gallery, a high-rise, mixed-use development owned and developed by ETA Star Property Developers.

  • Stroer to build 550 bus shelters in Abu Dhabi

    Germany's Stroer Concept Group has signed a franchise agreement with the Abu Dhabi Department of Transport to build 550 bus shelters throughout the emirate, reported Gulf News. The project will be completed in the summer of 2009, and will include air-conditioned shelters in some areas.

  • Study submitted for Iran-Dubai electricity link

    Belgium’s Tractebel Engineering and Italy’s Centro Elettrotecnico Sperimentale Italiano have submitted their technical conclusions on a proposed interconnection between Dubai and Iran.

  • SUDAN TENDER: Website editing specialist consultancy services

    Provision of website editing specialist consultancy services. Closing date: 18 July 2008

  • Suez bids low for Addur plant

    A team of Belgium’s Suez Energy International and Kuwait’s Gulf Investment Corporation is the lower bidder for Bahrain’s Addur independent water and power project (IWPP). Price offers for the project were opened on 24 July.

  • Suwaidi to stay at UAE central bank

    Sultan bin Nasser al-Suwaidi has been reappointed governor of the Central Bank of the UAE, ending widespread speculation that he was to be replaced by Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank chairman Saeed Mubarak Rashid al-Hajeri.

  • Sweet Homes to be built in Ajman

    Local developer Sweet Homes has awarded the AED2.2bn ($600m) contract to build its Ajman Uptown project to Sweet Homes General Contracting.

  • SYRIA TENDER: Railway coach repair centre substation

    Construction and operation of a 66/20-kV substation in a railway coach repair centre. Closing date: 22 September 2008

  • SYRIA TENDER: Railway sleepers

    Supply of wooden railway sleepers for turnouts. Closing date: 22 September 2008

  • SYRIA TENDER: Railway track transmission materials

    Supply of railway track transmission materials for feeding a substation. Closing date: 22 September 2008

  • SYRIA TENDER: Sodium bicarbonate

    Supply of sodium bicarbonate. Closing date: 17 August 2008

  • Taibah university building contract due by month end

    The award for a building contract at Taibah University, near Medina, is due to be made by the end of July.

  • Taj Company to build factory in Jordan

    The Taj Tobacco and Cigarettes Company plans to establish a factory to manufacture tobacco and cigarettes in the industrial park of the Ma'an Development Area in Jordan. The factory will be set up to accommodate a production capacity of up to 100 tons per month

  • Tameer approaches contractors for tower work

    Sharjah-based Tameer Holding has invited contractors to express interest in the contract to build an estimated AED5bn ($1.36bn) 125-floor tower on Sheikh Zayed road.

  • Tamouh invites firms to prequalify for Abu Dhabi ski slope project

    The local Tamouh Investment has invited contractors to prequalify for the first phase construction works for a proposed ski resort on the highest peak in Abu Dhabi emirate.

  • Tamweel agrees low pricing on $300m sukuk

    Tamweel is pricing a AED1.1bn ($300m) sukuk at the Emirates interbank offered rate (Eibor) plus 225 basis points, about 40 basis points lower than the average sukuk trading price in the GCC.

  • Tamweel plans to issue $300m sukuk

    Dubai’s Tamweel is planning to issue a new dirham-denominated sukuk before the end of July.

  • Tartous container terminal opens following upgrade

    Syria’s Tartous container terminal has opened after a $37m refit.

  • Technical bids due for Dubai gas facility

    Technical bids are due to be submitted on 4 August for the contract to build a liquefied natural gas (LNG) regassification terminal at Jebel Ali. Commercial prices are due in mid-September.

  • Tehran set to privatise Arak airport

    Preparations are being made to privatise Arak Airport, Tehran has announced.

  • Tender issued for design consultant for Oman hotel

    A tender has been issued for design consultancy services on the Jabal al-Akhdar hotel project in Oman.

  • The Address expands in Cairo

    Emaar Hospitality Group's The Address Hotels & Resorts is also launching the hotel in Egypt - The Address, Uptown Cairo. The hotel will be part of Uptown Cairo, the master-planned community developed by Emaar Misr for Development. The hotel is scheduled to open in 2011.

  • TNI renovates Mafraq under Ramada

    The National Investor (TNI) has recently signed with Malta-based CHI Hotels & Resorts and Mainland Investment for the management of the renovated and extended Mafraq Hotel in Abu Dhabi, and was the first property to be signed under the Ramada brand in the emirate. The hotel has currently 121 rooms, and will be re-launched as a 250 room Ramada Abu Dhabi Mafraq hotel in early 2010.

  • Total denies Iran pull-out

    French oil major Total has denied claims it has pulled out of energy investments in Iran and says it is still considering developing a gas project in the South Pars gas field.

  • Tunisair places $2bn Airbus order

    Tunisair has placed an order for new planes with Airbus worth close to $2bn.

  • TUNISIA TENDER: Power line accessories

    Supply of accessories for power lines. Closing date: 2 September 2008

  • TUNISIA TENDER: Road intersection works

    Carrying out road intersection works. Closing date: 20 September 2008

  • Tunisian president to stand for fifth consecutive term

    Tunisia's President Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali has announced that he will stand for a fifth consecutive term of office in the 2009 presidential election.

  • UAE and Oman agree $155m US missile contract

    The UAE and Oman have agreed a $155m contract to buy anti-tank missiles from a joint venture between Raytheon and Lockheed Martin.

  • UAE appoints nuclear envoy to international energy agency

    The UAE has nominated its first ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), as part of the country’s plans to launch a civilian nuclear power programme.

  • UAE launches face recognition e-system

    The UAE has launched a highly advanced biometric technology face recognition system that will be used for the first time in the world by Abu Dhabi International Airport, reported Khaleej Times. The systment will be implemented initially at the airport, then at all ports of entry in the UAE. The system will complement the iris recognition technology that is currently in use at all land, sea and airports entry points.

  • UAE launches health council

    Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, vice-president of the UAE, has issued a decree establishing a national health council.

  • UAE markets regulator gives approval to margin trading

    The UAE's capital markets regulator has given its final approval to new regulations that will allow investors to buy shares using money borrowed from their brokers in a move that the authorities hope will dramatically increase trading volumes.

  • UAE names fixed-price cement outlets

    The UAE Ministry of Economy has announced the list of cement outlets and agents who have agreed to sell cement at Dhs18 ($4.90) per bag at stores within the city limits and for Dhs19 per bag in outlets that are away from the city. The agreement completes the memorandum of understanding that the Ministry of Economy signed on May 2008 with cement manufacturers in the UAE to enhance coordination with cement producers and highlight the responsibility to consumers by regulating prices.

  • UAE steel prices soar

    Prices of construction materials continue to soar, particularly steel, with steel mesh up by 19% and deformed steel by 17%. Abu Dhabi's Department of Planning and Economy has issued a building materials price index, tracking the prices of 22 construction materials, which are mostly basic construction requirements. The index revealed that prices for cement were stable however.

  • UAE TENDER: Abu Dhabi highway PPP

    Upgrading and operation of a 325-kilometre highway in Abu Dhabi, on a PPP basis. Closing date: not stated

  • UAE TENDER: Airport agricultural beautification services

    Provision of landscaping services at an international airport. Closing date: 25 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Airport baggage handling system

    Provision of design and build services for a baggage handling system for a new midfield terminal building at an international airport. Closing date: 17 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Airport terminal arch construction

    Construction of a structural steel arch for a new midfield terminal building at an international airport. Closing date: 17 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Building interior and furnishing works

    Design and execution of interior and furnishing works for a head office building. Closing date: 23 July 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Commercial office building construction

    Construction of a commercial office building. Closing date: 3 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Computer network equipment and information security solutions

    Supply and installation of computer network equipment and information security solutions. Closing date: 21 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Distribution transformers

    Supply of distribution transformers. Closing date: 17 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Food control building construction

    Construction of a food control building. Closing date: 2 September 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Gas turbine inlet air filters

    Supply of inlet air filters for gas turbines. Closing date: 12 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Gas turbine inlet air filters and pre-filters

    Supply of inlet air filters and pre-filters for gas turbines. Closing date: 19 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Generator transformer

    Supply, installation, testing and commissioning of a generator transformer. Closing date: 18 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Housing construction

    Construction of housing facilities for staff. Closing date: 16 September 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Housing maintenance

    Maintenance of low-cost housing units. Closing date: 27 July 2008

  • UAE TENDER: HRC fuse links

    Supply of low-voltage HRC fuse links. Closing date: 14 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Lattice towers

    Installation of lattice towers. Closing date: 14 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Multi-storey car parking

    Design, build, operate and transfer of multi-storey car parking. Closing date: 11 September 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Pocket substations

    Supply of 1,000-kVA pocket substations. Closing date: 13 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Reservoir and pumping station construction

    Construction of 240 million-gallon reservoirs and pumping stations. Closing date: 26 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Road and bridge maintenance

    Carrying out emergency maintenance of roads and bridges. Closing date: 27 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Road construction

    Construction of roads. Closing date: 27 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Sewage treatment plant engineering consultancy

    Provision of engineering consultancy services for a main sewage treatment plant. Closing date: 18 September 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Sterilisation water treatment system

    Completion of a sterilisation water treatment system. Closing date: 7 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Substation extension

    Extension of substations. Closing date: 4 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Substations and cable laying works

    Supply of substations and carrying out cable laying works. Closing date: 4 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Telecommunications satellite antennas

    Supply of M KU-band and satellite antennas. Closing date: 31 August 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Water transfer pipe work

    Installation of common demineralised water transfer pipe work. Closing date: 10 August 2008

  • UAE to launch women-only bus service

    Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority plans to introduce a bus service exclusively for women by the end of this year, reported Khaleej Times. Essa Al Dossari, CEO of Public Transport Agency at the RTA, women commuters have been demanding more seats in the buses and there are complaints that bus drivers often do not stop to pick up women passengers because of non-availability of seats for them. Presently, there are only 12 seats in each bus for women.

  • UAE unveils car pooling web page

    A dedicated webpage to register private car pooling service in the UAE is set for launch next week, reported Khaleej Times. The service is expected to reduce traffic and help eliminate the illegal taxis plying on Dubai roads. The new car pool webpage can be accessed at www.rta.ae. A decision on allowing six- and eight-seater vans to start similar car pooling services will be taken in the near future. But, currently, only light vehicles are approved to offer this service in Dubai.

  • UAE's manufacturing sector slows

    The UAE's manufacturing sector appears to be slowing down, as its share in the country's gross domestic product has declined by 1.2% between 2001 and 2006, reported Gulf News. Data compiled by the Ministry of Economy shows that the manufacturing sector's share of the country's total non-oil GDP has slumped from 20% in 2001 to 18.8% in 2006, averaging 19% during the period.

  • UBS plans to expand in the Middle East

    UBS has launched a number of initiatives to expand its presence in the Middle East, including the launch of investment banking operations in Saudi Arabia and the application for a banking licence in Qatar.

  • Value of Islamic bond issues rises to $17bn

    The value of Islamic bonds (sukuk) issued in the GCC has risen by 17 per cent in the past year to $17bn, with Western institutions buying the majority of the debt.

  • Verenex makes Libyan oil discovery

    Canadian oil firm Verenex Energy has made a new oil discovery in its A47 exploration and production concession in the Ghadames basin, about 250km southwest of Tripoli.

  • Vodafone Egypt increases number of customers by 38 per cent

    Vodafone Egypt increased its customer numbers by 38 per cent in the April to June quarter, its slowest rate of growth for 18 months.

  • Wataniya gets nod to operate

    Kuwait's Wataniya Airways has received its Air Operators Certificate from the Directorate General of Aviation in Kuwait, allowing the airline to undertake commercial flying operations. Wataniya Airways is set to commence services by January 2009, with a fleet of two Airbus A320 aircraft.

  • Wataniya Palestine faces delay on receiving spectrum

    Wataniya Palestine, a subsidiary of Qatar’s Qtel, faces a delay from the Israeli authorities before it receives the radio spectrum needed to launch mobile phone services in the West Bank and Gaza.

  • Wataniya Palestine to launch mobile phone services in West Bank and Gaza

    The Israeli government has released the spectrum that will enable mobile phone operator Wataniya Palestine to launch its services in the West Bank and Gaza.

  • WesternGeco wins Kuwait seismic deal

    Geophysical firm WesternGeco, part of oil field services giant Schlumberger, has won a contract to gather 3D seismic data on Kuwaiti onshore oil and gas fields.

  • Why Big Oil will compromise in Iraq

    There is no question that Baghdad needs the expertise and capital of international oil companies to kick-start its oil industry.

  • World’s biggest dredger heads for Dubai

    The world’s largest dredger has set sail for Dubai after being launched by Belgium’s Jan De Nul in Bilbao, Spain on 4 July.

  • YEMEN TENDER: Event planning consultancy advisory services

    Provision of individual event planning consultancy advisory services. Closing date: 22 July 2008

  • YEMEN TENDER: Groundwater monitoring equipment

    Supply of groundwater monitoring equipment. Closing date: 31 August 2008

  • YEMEN TENDER: Port cities development consultancy (lead adviser)

    Provision of individual consultancy services comprising a lead adviser for the port cities development programme. Closing date: 22 July 2008

  • YEMEN TENDER: Port cities development programme consultancy (asset management)

    Provision of individual consultancy services comprising an asset management consultant for the port cities development programme. Closing date: 22 July 2008

  • YEMEN TENDER: Port cities development programme consultancy (lead adviser)

    Provision of individual consultancy services comprising a lead adviser for the port cities development programme. Closing date: 22 July 2008

  • YEMEN TENDER: Port cities development programme consultancy (lead adviser)

    Provision of individual consultancy services comprising a lead adviser for the port cities development programme. Closing date: 22 July 2008

  • YEMEN TENDER: Power company consultancy project

    Provision of a diagnostic study for a power company’s financial department short-term consultancy assignment. Closing date: 15 July 2008

  • YEMEN TENDER: Rural access project consultancy services

    Provision of consultancy services comprising an assessment of the construction industry. Closing date: 15 August 2008

  • YEMEN TENDER: Rural road construction

    Construction of a 13.5-kilometre rural road. Closing date: 9 September 2008

  • YEMEN TENDER: Spate diversion dam

    Construction of a spate diversion dam. Closing date: 25 August 2008

  • YEMEN TENDER: Thermal power plant boiler

    Supply, installation, testing and commissioning of a new boiler at a thermal power plant. Closing date: 19 August 2008

  • YEMEN TENDER: Wastewater collection and treatment plant

    Provision of a wastewater collection and treatment plant. Closing date: 27 August 2008

  • Zain profits up 4 per cent over the last three months

    Kuwaiti telecoms giant Zain increased its net profit by just 4 per cent over the last three months as the company's struggle to convert revenues into profits continued.

  • Zamil wins SR80m KAUST contract

    Zamil Air Conditioners has won multiple contracts to provide custom climate control systems for King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), located on the eastern shore of the Red Sea at Thuwal, Saudi Arabia. Zamil Air Conditioners will supply a large number of concealed fan coil units, air-cooled condensing units, single skin air handling units, ducted split systems, approximately 3000 sets of water chilled fan coil units, and 21 sets of custom built TW Series double skin air

Newsletter Sign-up

More sector and country newsletters

Subscribe to MEED to receive your choice of premium newsletters

Find out more

Knowledge Bank

Company Profiles

Biographies

Databank

Top 100 projects

Top 100 listed companies

Qatar Projects 2012

Order your copy here

Read sample chapter

Follow MEED on

Linkedin     Twitter     RSS Newsletter