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MEED
Sep 2008 Online Content

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  • 2008 Smart Manufacturing Conference announced

    The Public Establishment for Industrial Estates, organizers of Oman's annual Smart Manufacturing Conference, have announced the programme for this year's event, scheduled to take place 3 - 4 November at the Muscat Inter-Continental Hotel. The two-day conference has grown to become one of the Gulf region's most important industrial events and boasts an impressive range of presentations covering a broad spectrum of industry sectors, according to a press statement.

  • Abdullah Ahmad Dossary Trading wins Jubail 2 deal

    The local Abdullah Ahmad Dossary Trading Enterprise (AAD) has been awarded an infrastructure contract for construction work at Jubail 2 in Saudi Arabia.

  • Abu Dhabi airport receives full certification

    Abu Dhabi International Airport has been issued full certification by the General Civil Aviation Authority, the Abu Dhabi Airports Company said in a statement. The certification is in accordance with UAE federal Civil Aviation Regulations, based on the Standards of Annex 14 & 17 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation. ADAC Chairman and Managing Director Khalifa Al Mazrouei said Abu Dhabi International is the first airport in the UAE to receive full certification in accordance with

  • Abu Dhabi launches transport website

    Abu Dhabi's Department of Transport has launched a web site which has been designed to give an overview of all its projects. The site -www.dot.abudhabi.ae — will offer press releases, photographs and general information about the four areas in which the department is involved — aviation, maritime, highways and public transport.

  • Abu Dhabi plans new court house

    Abu Dhabi Judicial Department has invited selected contractors to express interest in two contracts for a new court house complex in Abu Dhabi.

  • Abu Dhabi traffic up 34.3%

    Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) has reported a 22.9% jump in passenger traffic in August compared to the same period in 2007. A total of 869,868 passengers used the airport over the month, compared to 707,671 last year. Year-to-date figures have reached 5,962,175 - up 34.3% on 2007. The majority of the increase is due to an influx of passenger traffic from other Gulf countries, India, the Philippines and the UK.

  • ADAC welcomes new cargo operator

    Abu Dhabi Airports Company, the owner-operator of Al Ain International Airport, has welcomed its latest airline to operate services from the emirate in the form of Toumaï Air Tchad. The national carrier of Chad, the North African airline operates from its main home-base of N'Djamena International Airport and will initially start with freighter operations between Al Ain International Airport and Swansboro, North Carolina, USA. Initially operating up to two flights per week from Al Ain Internat

  • ADIA July traffic up 26.7%

    Abu Dhabi International Airport's (ADIA) monthly traffic figures for July showed a 26.7% increase in passenger numbers compared with the same month last year, according to the Abu Dhabi Airports Company. Meanwhile, the cargo sector recorded an increase of 15.1% in July 2008 over July 2007's figures.

  • ADIC-UBS bid for mega infrastructure projects

    The ADIC-UBS Infrastructure Investment Fund is currently bidding for four multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects including the Aqaba Port Redevelopment in Jordan, an independent power and water plant in Saudi Arabia, a sewage treatment plant in Bahrain, and a schools project in Egypt, reported Khaleej Times. Abu Dhabi Investment Company and Union Bank of Switzerland launched the infrastructure fund early this year, to invest in the expanding infrastructure in the MENA and Turkey. The fu

  • ADNH, Park Hyatt sign management deal

    Abu Dhabi National Hotels has announced the signing of a management agreement with Hyatt International. Hyatt will handle all operational and management aspects of the 5-star Park Hyatt that will be developed by ADNH on the emirate's Saadiyat Island. The ADNH Park Hyatt Saadiyat Resort is expected to be completed by 2010. It will have 316 rooms, suites and villas.

  • ADSB and Rolls to build marine centre

    Abu Dhabi Ship Building and Rolls-Royce Marine Middle East are setting up a centre in Abu Dhabi to provide support services to the shipyard's customers in the Gulf region. Rolls-Royce will work with Abu Dhabi Ship Building to offer services such as training, maintenance, repairs, overhauls, spare parts and service contracts.

  • Agility buys Baisui United

    UAE-based storage and logistics company Agility said it will pay $50.5 million to buy all of Baisui United Logistics (Shanghai) Co, a Chinese logistics provider, reported Bloomberg. Baisui's services include intra-city, regional and long-haul transport and warehousing mainly to the chemicals, automotive and the fast-moving consumer goods industry.

  • Agility buys Geopetrol

    Logistics company Agility has bought Geopetrol International, a Canadian firm that specialises in freight forwarding in the oil and gas market. Geopetrol focuses on project logistics, such as heavy lift and oversize cargo. Agility CEO Mark Soubry said the acquisition gives the company 'strategic capabilities to tackle the growing opportunities within Canada [and the] oil and gas markets'.

  • Agility expands Abu Dhabi unit

    Agility Abu Dhabi is building a 400,000sqm warehousing facility in Mussafah and is planning to purchase hundreds of heavy transport lorries, from its current 200 trailers up to 500, The National has reported. The warehouse is scheduled to open in January 2010.

  • Agility wins $11.8m Kuwaiti contract

    Agility has announced the signing of a KD3.2m ($11.8mm) contract with the Kuwait National Petroleum Company to provide 4PL logistics solutions in Kuwait. Under the five-year contract, Agility will manage warehousing activities, such as materials handling and spare parts, preservation and re-organization for KNPC in Kuwait, according to a press statement.

  • Air Arabia opens sales shop in Iran

    Air Arabia, the largest low-cost carrier in the Middle East and North Africa, has opened its first fully-dedicated sales shop in Tehran, Iran. The Sharjah-based carrier, which has provided direct flights to Iran since 2006, currently offers seven flights per week to Iran, including three flights per week to Tehran and four to Shiraz.

  • Air Arabia plans Morocco hub

    Sharjah-based low cost carrier Air Arabia will soon launch a hub in Morocco with a dedicated fleet of A320s, reported Khaleej Times. The airline's CEO Adel Ali said the launch is likely to take place by the end of this year or early 2009. Air Arabia announced, at the end of last year, that it would establish a hub in Morocco's capital Rabat, providing a platform to reach Europe, Africa and those parts of the Middle East beyond it's reach in Sharjah.

  • Air Arabia to fly daily to Hyderabad

    UAE-based low-cost carrier Air Arabia has announced that it will launch daily service to Hyderabad, India, beginning October 27, 2008. Hyderabad will be Air Arabia's 43rd global destination and its 12th in India, reinforcing its status as the largest destination network in India of any Middle East-based carrier, according to a press statement. Currently, Air Arabia provides direct service to Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Coimbatore, Jaipur, Kochi, Kozhikode, Mumbai, Nagpur, New Delhi and Thi

  • Air Arabia to fly to Ukraine

    Sharjah-based budget carrier Air Arabia said it will start flying to the Ukrainian capital Kiev from October 15. The airline said the launch of the new destination reflects its growing expansion into another region in Eastern Europe. The carrier will fly to Kiev three times per week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between October 15 and October 25. Between October 26 and March 28, the carrier will fly to Kiev three times per week on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

  • Airbus aims to keep A380 on target

    A senior Airbus official said the airliner is going 'flat out' to ensure it meets its target of delivering 12 A380 superjumbos in 2008 and believes next year's target of 21 deliveries also remains realistic, reported Reuters. A French newspaper reported on Sunday that the A380, which is running more than two years late after four separate shifts in the development timetable, faced another setback with only 8-10 aircraft ready to be delivered in 2008.

  • Airbus to build plant in Tunisia

    Airbus plans to build a components factory in Tunisia to save costs as part of an expanded restructuring plan, Reuters has reported. The move is seen as part of the planemaker's race for new savings as it struggles to remain competitive against Boeing, which grabbed back leadership of new plane orders in 2007 but whose workers have gone on strike over outsourcing.

  • Al Jaber won't buy AUA shares

    Saudi investor Mohammad Bin Eisa Al Jaber will not buy Austrian Airlines shares in the rights issue the carrier launched two weeks ago, reported Reuters. The share issue is not related to the ongoing process of selling part of the Austrian government's stake in the airline, but was part of a deal earlier this year under which Al Jaber would have bought 20%. The deal fell apart in May.

  • Al-Assad appoints new ministers in Syria

    Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has replaced two ministers in his government in the second major cabinet reshuffle in 2008.

  • Aldar Properties invites firms to express interest in Al-Falah mall contract

    Local developer Aldar Properties has invited companies to express interest in a contract to build an estimated AED850m ($239m) retail and community centre at its Al-Falah villas development in Abu Dhabi emirate.

  • Algeria receives $1bn in foreign investment

    Algeria generated an estimated $1bn of net foreign direct investment during the first half of 2008, according to the governor of the central bank.

  • ALGERIA TENDER: Chemical products

    Supply of chemical products. Closing date: 4 November 2008

  • ALGERIA TENDER: Gas pipeline

    Supply of 309,677 metres of 48-inch gas pipeline. Closing date: 18 November 2008

  • ALGERIA TENDER: Gas pipeline compression station

    Implementation of a compression station at a gas pipeline. Closing date: 28 October 2008

  • ALGERIA TENDER: Head office extension EPC services

    Provision of engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services for a head office building extension. Closing date: 13 November 2008

  • ALGERIA TENDER: Line pipe

    Supply of line pipe for the repair of oil and gas pipelines. Closing date: 21 October 2008

  • ALGERIA TENDER: LPG storage tanks

    Supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) storage tanks. Closing date: 2 November 2008

  • ALGERIA TENDER: Oil field casing

    Supply of casing for an oil field. Closing date: 29 October 2008

  • ALGERIA TENDER: Overhead power transmission line works (3 lots)

    Design, engineering, assembly and commissioning of overhead power transmission lines. Closing date: 29 September 2008

  • ALGERIA TENDER: Overhead power transmission line works (7 lots)

    Design, engineering, assembly and commissioning of overhead power transmission lines. Closing date: 29 September 2008

  • ALGERIA TENDER: Power transformers

    Supply of 10-kV and 30-kV power transformers. Closing date: 13 October 2008

  • ALGERIA TENDER: Steel pipes

    Supply of steel pipes and accessories. Closing date: 5 November 2008

  • ALGERIA TENDER: Wind farm construction

    Construction of a 10-MW wind farm. Closing date: 27 October 2008

  • Al-Habtoor and joint venture firms win Tameer Towers deal

    The joint venture of local Al-Habtoor Engineering, South Africa’s Murray & Roberts and Saudi-based Al-Rahji Contracting has been awarded a AED6bn ($1.6bn) for the construction contract of Tameer Towers.

  • Al-Jaber awards Saadiyat hotel contract to Alec

    The local Alec has been awarded the estimated AED600m ($163m) contract to build a resort on Saadiyat island in Abu Dhabi emirate.

  • Al-Osaimi to issue tenders for Palm Jumeirah hotel in 2009

    Tenders are due to be issued for a new hotel project on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah in February.

  • Al-Rajhi Development invites firms to prequalify for Jeddah tower contract

    The local Al-Rajhi Development and Dubai-based Tameer Holding have invited selected contractors to prequalify for the contract to build a 57-floor tower in Jeddah.

  • Alstom signs Shuaiba power plant deal

    France’s Alstom has signed the contract for the construction of a 1,200MW power plant in Saudi Arabia.

  • Alumco, CPC tie up for new $27m factory

    UAE company Alumco and Saudi Arabia-based Construction Products Holding Company have signed an agreement to set up a new aluminium extrusion factory in Algeria. The project will involve investments totalling Dhs100m ($27m). The new factory, spread over 100,000 square metres, will have an initial production capacity of 50,000 tonnes per year.

  • Amec wins Abu Dhabi offshore crude deal

    UK engineering firm Amec has won the contract to manage the offshore crude increment programme planned by Zakum Development Company (Zadco).

  • Another district planned for Abdali downtown

    Local developer the Abdali Mall Company is preparing plans for a new mixed-use district at the Abdali downtown project in Amman.

  • Aqaba inks $100m port project

    Aqaba Development Corporation has signed a 30-year Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) agreement with Jordan Phosphate Mines Company and the Arab Potash Company to rehabilitate, develop, and operate the current industrial terminal as well as establish and operate a new terminal on a BOT basis. Investment value is expected to reach $100m.

  • Arabian Bemco awards power plant deal to Al-Mabani

    The Saudi-based Al-Mabani has been awarded a SR1bn ($267m) contract for a civil works package in Riyadh for the PP10 power plant.

  • Arabtec to build Waterfront Atrium

    The local Arabtec Construction has received a letter of intent for the AED2.4bn ($654m) contract to build the Atrium project at Dubai Waterfront.

  • Aramex opens logistics centre in Bahrain

    Aramex has opened a new logistics centre in Bahrain to support the company's expanding supply-chain solutions network across the GCC. Located in the Bahrain International Airport Free Zone, the facility will combine sea, air and land freight capabilities.

  • ART Marine in yacht brokerage

    ART Marine has launched the ART Marine Brokerage, its international yacht brokerage service division. The Dubai-based marine hospitality company's new division will cater to clients who are either interested in purchasing a new yacht but need to dispose of their existing yacht or who are interested in purchasing larger pre-owned yachts that are available for sale in the local and international markets.

  • Atlantis Dubai plans lavish opening

    The Atlantis Hotel in Dubai is throwing an extravagant grand opening ceremony that will be attended by 2,000 VIP guests including Hollywood stars, heads of state and billionaire business moguls, the UK's Telegraph has reported. The four-day celebration, which is estimated to cost over £15m, will include a performance by Kylie Minogue, - her first in the Middle East - and a fireworks display, masterminded by the pyrotechnics experts behind the Olympics opening ceremony, that will cover all 43k

  • Atlantis to get $1bn expansion

    Kerzner International, developer of the Atlantis resort on the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, is planning a $1bn expansion of the resort, reported Gulf News. Currently the $1.5bn resort only occupies 50% of the land area that Kerzner International owns and there are plans to develop a mixed-use Cove Atlantis on the remaining land that will consist of hotels and condos. Alan Leibman, managing director of Kerzner International, said the hotel is on track to open on September 24.

  • Atlantis to open today in Dubai

    Atlantis, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, is set to open today as planned following a fire earlier this month. The hotel will be the first of 33 five star hotels on the palm, featuring 1,500 rooms, 17 restaurants, a children's club, and suites with indoor lagoon views. Other facilities include up to 20 shops, a water park with a slide entering shark-infested waters, and a dolphin enclosure.

  • BA halts Pakistan flights indefinitely

    British Airways is suspending flights to and from Pakistan indefinitely following the deadly bomb attack on the Marriott Hotel, the airline said today. BA operates at least three flights a week from London's Heathrow to Pakistan's capital Islamabad, the site of the attack. Soon after Saturday's attack, the airline temporarily halted its flights and said it would review operations later in the week. Today's announcement extends the suspension, reported AP.

  • BA to add third flight to Dubai

    British Airways has announced that it will add a third daily flight from London to Dubai beginning in October. The airline also announced it would be rolling out its New Club World business class cabin on the route at the same time. From October 26, a trio of Boeing aircraft, a 747, 767 and 777, will run on the airline's Dubai - London Heathrow route.

  • Baghdad considers renting Turkish aircraft

    The new Iraqi Minister of Transport Aamer Abdul Jabar, has spoken of a possible deal for Baghdad to rent Turkish-owned aircraft, enabling them to fly between Iraq and Turkey.

  • Bahrain Air to double authorised capital

    Shareholders at Bahrain Air have agreed to double the carrier’s authorised capital to BD20m ($53m), from BD10m.

  • Bahrain and BSA step up piracy fight

    The Business Software Alliance recently joined Bahrain's Ministry of Information in publicly destroying thousands of unlicensed CDs, which were disposed of in the presence of authorities, concerned parties and media after they were confiscated during a series of raids across Bahrain. The move was intended to show the seriousness and scope of the government's anti-piracy campaign. The Bahraini government and BSA have also been coordinating on educational programmes to enhance public awareness

  • Bahrain inflation at 3.3 per cent in August

    Inflation in Bahrain has risen by 3.3 per cent in August, rising from 3 per cent in the previous month driven by higher food prices.

  • Bahrain sewage plant action expected in October

    Developers shortlisted for the $150m Muharraq sewage plant in Bahrain expect to be asked to submit requests for proposals (RFP) from early October.

  • BAHRAIN TENDER: Airport porta cabins

    Provision of expansion works at an airport comprising the provision of porta cabins. Closing date: 12 November 2008

  • BAHRAIN TENDER: Court annex building

    Construction of a constitutional court annex building. Closing date: 29 October 2008

  • BAHRAIN TENDER: Housing construction

    Construction of four new houses. Closing date: 8 October 2008

  • BAHRAIN TENDER: Reverse osmosis membranes

    Replacement of reverse osmosis membranes at a water treatment plant. Closing date: 12 November 2008

  • BAHRAIN TENDER: Sterilisation products

    Supply of sterilisation products. Closing date: 22 October 2008

  • Bahrain's Mumtalakat reports $652m profits

    Mumtalakat, the investment company of the Bahrain government, has reported a profit of BD245.8m ($652m) for its first 18 months of operation to 31 December 2007.

  • Banks structure financing for $2bn Addur power plant

    Project financing for the $2bn Addur independent water and power plant (IWPP) in Bahrain is currently being structured following the award of the construction contract to Suez in mid-August.

  • Banque Saudi Fransi raises loan size to $525m

    Banque Saudi Fransi has increased the size of a syndicated loan it is raising from $300m to $525m, after the deal was oversubscribed earlier in September.

  • Banque Saudi Fransi set to increase $300m loan

    Banque Saudi Fransi is looking to increase the size of a $300m loan after banks have oversubscribed to the deal.

  • Barwa boosts its investment in Shaza Hotels

    Qatar-based Barwa Real Estate Company, through its global arm, Barwa International, plans to increase its capital commitment to Shaza Hotels, which it is backing in a partnership with Guidance Financial Group and Kempinski Hotels, according to a press statement. The capital increase to more than 2½ times Barwa's original commitment is aimed at giving the partnership the capacity to develop projects worth $500m. With hotel projects in Bahrain, Cairo, Doha, Dubai, Marrakech, Muscat, Jeddah, and

  • Belgium’s Solvay buys Egyptian soda ash firm

    Egyptian state-owned Chemical Industries Holding Company has sold a majority stake in its Alexandria Sodium Carbonate Company (ASCC) subsidiary to Belgium’s Solvay.

  • Berthing woes at Jebel Ali port

    Congestion at Jebel Ali port where ships can take several days to berth has led to frustration from importers of perishable goods in Dubai, prompting them to look for alternative ports, Gulf News has reported. The shipping hub has become busier this year when operator DP World moved the cargo operations of its smaller Port Rashid to Jebel Ali due to redevelopment at the Port Rashid area. Port Rashid redevelopement involves urban real estate and maritime activities such as cruise tourism.

  • Bids in for Gulf Air training academy

    Three companies have submitted bids to become a joint venture partner with Gulf Air as the Bahraini airline seems likely to turn its training academy into a separate unit.

  • Bids in for Oman water consultancy contract

    Six companies have submitted bids for a contract for consultancy services to Oman's Public Authority for Electricity & Water (PAEW).

  • Bids in for Salalah port expansion contract

    Ten international groups have submitted bids to provide consultancy work to oversee the latest stage of the expansion of Salalah’s southern port.

  • Bids submitted for Kuwait infrastructure works

    Two companies have submitted bids for road improvement works in Kuwait.

  • Bids submitted for UAE nuclear management contract

    Bids have been submitted on schedule for the contract to manage the UAE’s nuclear power programme.

  • Binladin agrees SR1bn sukuk with Sabb

    Construction firm Saudi Binladin Group has finalised its first sukuk (Islamic bond), a SR1bn ($270m), five-year arrangement with Saudi Arabia’s Sabb bank.

  • Boeing strike could slow deliveries

    A prolonged strike by Boeing workers could further delay the debut of the US-manufacturer's aircraft in the fourth quarter 2008 and impact on-time deliveries to Gulf airlines, reported Khaleej Times. The on-going strike by more than 27,000 workers halted Boeing's production lines for the 737, 747, 777 as well as the 787 Dreamliner aircraft, most of which are integral to Gulf carriers' fast expansion goals. Four 777 aircraft are due for delivery to Emirates, and another 777 is meant for Qatar

  • Boeing strike to hit Gulf deliveries

    Boeing has confirmed that the strike by its workers could further delay production of its long-haul 787 aircraft and impact on deliveries of all planes across the Gulf.

  • BUE wins $225m vessel deal

    BUE Marine Limited has won the 10-year $225m contract from BP Azerbaijan to custom-build and supply three support marine vessels. BUE has earlier been awarded by BP for another long term three vessel contract. BUE is a wholly owned subsidiary of Dubai-headquartered Topaz Energy and Marine Limited. Topaz owns and operates over 100 offshore support vessels.

  • Buildan to invest $1bn at Dubai airport

    Dubai-based Daman Investments has created a new company, Buildan Development Limited, that will invest at least $1bn in specialised airport facilities at the new airport area in Dubai over the next three years, reported Khaleej Times. Daman's CEO Shehab Gargash said Buildan will have an initial public offering in 4-5 years to raise capital. The company is also having preliminary talks with partners outside the Middle East on various planned projects.

  • Burgan wins Kuwait drilling deal

    The local Burgan Company for Drilling, Trading & Maintenance has won a KD16.6m ($62m) contract to supply two deep drilling rigs to state upstream operator Kuwait Oil Company (KOC).

  • Calls to combat piracy off Somalia

    International ship owners and a union representing seamen have appealed to the United Nations to take urgent steps to combat piracy in Somali waters, reported Bloomberg. The shipping associations' Round Table called for 'real and immediate action against brazen acts of piracy, kidnapping and armed robbery, carried out with increasing frequency against ships in the Gulf of Aden, by pirates based in Somalia'. A week ago, Somali pirates seized a Greek-owned bulk carrier and a Hong Kong cargo ves

  • Cement prices climb in August

    A new survey has found that prices of portland cement in the UAE rose to Dhs522 per metric tonne in August from Dhs500 in July, as a number of real estate projects went into construction phase, reported Gulf News. According to the building material index issued by the statistical unit of Abu Dhabi Department of Planning and Economy, current construction boom in the UAE in general and Abu Dhabi in particular has increased projects offered to contractors and at the same time given rise to price

  • Central Bank of Iran allows banks to raise savings rates

    The Central Bank of Iran has allowed the country's banks to increase their deposit rates in a move designed to curb runaway inflation, which reached 27.6 per cent for the 12 months to 21 August 2008.

  • China Harbour Engineering wins Ajman marina works

    China Harbour Engineering has been awarded the AED150m ($41m) infrastructure contract for the Ajman marina project.

  • Concerns over downturn hit Kuwait and Qatar markets

    This was the week that Kuwait and Qatar, the most resilient markets during the current downturn, were hit by the same fears that have wiped millions from the value of listed companies in Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

  • Conference to discuss booming steel industry

    Consumption of steel in the Middle East is growing at a phenomenal rate. By 2010 the region is expected to consume 60 million tonnes a year, while expected to only produce 35 million tonnes per year. Meanwhile, the cost of steel has almost doubled (an increase of 91%) in the last six months. Middle East Steel 2008, which will be held in Dubai from October 12 to 14, will seek to explore the issues and challenges faced by the industry. The event is sponsored by Emirates Steel Industries and org

  • Consortiums submit bids for Algerian rail electrification

    Bids from two international groups have been submitted for a major new contract to electrify Algeria's east-west railway line.

  • Construction work on Dubai Maritime City to start in October

    Construction work on the latest development by the UAE’s Al Faraa Properties is to start in Dubai Maritime City in October.

  • Consultancy firms line up for Oman expressway

    Three consultancy firms are due to submit bids for an expressway contract in Oman in November.

  • Consulting Engineering Services bids low for Batinah Railway study

    Consulting Engineering Services (CES) is the low bidder for the contract to carry out the feasibility study for Oman’s Batinah Railway.

  • Contract awarded for Ras Laffan training centre

    Tebodin Middle East, part of the Hague’s Tebodin Consultants & Engineers, has been awarded the design contract for the Ras Laffan Emergency & Safety College in Qatar.

  • Contractors approached for Abu Dhabi bank headquarters

    Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank has invited selected contractors to prequalify for the shell and core construction package on its new headquarters in Abu Dhabi.

  • Contractors prepare Oman gas pipeline bids

    Contractors will submit technical bids on 13 September for the contract to build two new gas pipelines planned by Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) in the south of the sultanate following a deadline extension.

  • CPC, Alumco ink aluminum deal

    Saudi-based Construction Products Holding Company (CPC) and UAE's Alumco have inked a joint venture agreement to set up a Dhs100m aluminum plant in Algeria. The new factory has an area of 100,000sqm. The joint venture looks at an initial production capacity of 50,000 tonnes per year.

  • Crowding crisis at Jeddah port

    The Jeddah Islamic Seaport in Saudi Arabia is facing an ongoing crisis due to a lack of facilities for trans-shipments, reported Gulf News. The General Seaport Authority has been approached by seaport workers to reconsider the continuation of trans-shipment services due to the lack of necessary facilities at the seaport to absorb the loading containers of incoming ships. Several merchants and customs agents have suggested that the size of the trans-shipment service offered by the seaports to

  • Dammam airport to become business city

    Plans are in the works to develop King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Saudi Arabia into a full-fledged business city with advanced facilities to attract more foreign airlines and passengers, reported Arab News. Khaled Al-Muzael, the airport's director, said the initiative is in line with the global trend of providing business facilities and opportunities near airports. The project includes construction of hotels, conference halls, an aviation training institute and aircraft maintenance

  • Danube invests in Oman steel

    Danube Building Materials has announced it will be developing a new steel facility in Mabella, Oman to further strengthen its position in the sultanate. An approximately 51,000sqft facility worth Dhs50m will function as the logistics hub for Danube's operations in Oman and will facilitate the storage of all stock including deformed bars and other structured steel like angles, channels, and plates.

  • Danube to build manufacturing facility

    Danube Building Materials has invested Dhs50m ($13.5m) in a new ceiling manufacturing facility located in the Sharjah Industrial Area I, said a press release on Monday. The company also plans to launch a new range of gypsum ceiling tiles and accessories under the brand name 'Bruserstang', as part of the company's aims to address the increasing demand for gypsum products, which has grown by 10 fold in the last two years. The new 120,000 sq. ft. facility is designed to manufacture gypsum ceilin

  • Desert Line wins Duqm airport contract

    The local group Desert Line Projects has been awarded the first construction package at Duqm airport in Oman.

  • Details emerge on Iraq oil deal with China

    Fresh details have emerged of the service deal signed with China for the development of the Al-Ahdab oil field, giving an indication to other oil majors about the type of contracts on offer in the country in the continued absence of an oil law.

  • DFM up 10 per cent as markets digest bank bailouts plan

    The Dubai Financial Market (DFM) index was up by 9.9 per cent by the end of trading on 21 September, as regional markets reflected the significant recovery in Western exchanges on 19 September, buoyed by news of US bank bailout that could total $700bn.

  • DHL opens new outlet in Bahrain

    DHL Express has opened a new service point on Budaiya Highway in Bahrain. The outlet is the fourth DHL outlet in Bahrain, and will serve core services DHL Express 9 and DHL Express 12 for more urgent deliveries, along with the standard end-of-day, DHL Express Worldwide.

  • Dhs1bn Warehouse City takes shape

    Al Hanoo Holding, lead developer of the Emirates Industrial City project, has revealed progress that it has made in the warehouses project located in Sajaa district in the emirate of Sharjah. The company said it has finished six prototype warehouses, with features ranging from typical ventilation systems to proper thermal insulation, alongside civil defence requirements such as automatic water sprinklers in case of fire. Each warehouse also includes a complete communications network, power-sa

  • DIC to assess Kanoo quality marks

    Dubai Industrial City (DIC) has inked an agreement with the Kanoo Group to assess the latter's diversified operations across the UAE and Oman, utilising the Dubai Quality Mark (DQM) standards. DQM is managed by Maqayees, the Dubai Centre for Industrial Standards operating under DIC umbrella. It offers integrated management system for companies to check on their quality, health, safety and environment performance.

  • DII buys stake in upcoming Saudi plant

    Dubai Investments Industries, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dubai Investments, has acquired a 10% stake in Saudi Arabia-based South Steel Company. Promoted by Pan Kingdom Investments, the $350m South Steel Company is scheduled to commence commercial operations from December 2010, with an initial capacity of one million tons per annum. The plant, being set up with technological assistance from Germany-based SMS Group, will produce top-quality steel billets and reinforcement bars in accordance w

  • Dispute over funds from Tidewater sale in Iran

    Iran has completed the part-privatisation of marine services group Tidewater. However, a dispute is continuing between the government and the Ports & Shipping Organisation (PSO) over the distribution of the funds from the sale.

  • Doha airport faces two-year delay

    The opening of the new Doha Airport has been pushed back two years due to requests for enhancements to the airport's service facilities that were above that in the original masterplan, Meed has reported. The first two phases of the $11bn project are now set to open in 2011, two years later than originally planned.

  • Dolphin Energy set to supply gas to Oman

    Abu Dhabi-based Dolphin Energy says it will be ready to supply 200 million cubic-feet-a-day (cf/d) of gas to Oman by October - a four-month delay on the original timeframe.

  • Dubai Aerospace to add dirham tranche to $1bn loan

    Banks involved in the Dubai Aerospace $1bn three-year syndicated loan have started talks on adding a dirham-denominated tranche to the deal, to boost demand for the debt.

  • Dubai aims for low metro fares

    Riders on Dubai's yet-to-be built metro will pay less than Dhs10 ($2.72) while travelling between two stations, officials from the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority told Khaleej Times. RTA is aiming to keep prices 'very economical so everyone could use the trains'. The authority said it also may implement a zoning system to determine fares - similar to other cities throughout the world with Metro systems.

  • Dubai Airports T3 on 2nd trial

    Dubai Airports announced it has conducted the second operational trial for Dubai International's Terminal 3. The second of a series of three trials involved about 3,000 volunteers from the public to test the whole spectrum of systems, processes and services at the new terminal. The third and final trial is scheduled to take place in late September, before its opening on October 14.

  • Dubai buys stake in Saudi steel firm

    Dubai Investments Company has bought a 10 per cent stake in Saudi Arabia’s South Steel Factory, which is developing a $2.6bn steel complex in the kingdom’s Jizan Economic City.

  • Dubai curbs truck traffic for Ramadan

    The movement of trucks in Dubai will be prohibited from 7.30am to 9.30am, 1pm to 3pm and 5.30pm to 8pm during the month of Ramadan, the Roads and Transport Authority has announced. The decision aims to streamline traffic in the morning and evening hours.

  • Dubai developer launches new tower in Dubai Sports City

    The Dubai-based developer Memon Investments has launched a AED338m ($92m) residential tower project in Dubai Sports City.

  • Dubai Drydocks set to close $2.2bn loan

    Dubai World subsidiary Dubai Drydocks, is set to close the syndication of its $2.2bn loan facility by 19 September.

  • Dubai fines tankers for sewage dumping

    Up to 27 tankers have been fined Dhs50,000 ($13,600) by the Dubai government for dumping raw sewage in the open, reported Khaleej Times. Abdul Majid Sifaee, director of the Drainage Network Department at the Dubai Municipality, said that apart from the fines, the cost of cleaning and flushing out the storm water lines would also have to be borne by the companies whose tankers were involved in the dumping. The municipality officials said that an area of around 150 metres near the Dubai Offshor

  • Dubai Group acquires controlling stake in Bahrain real estate firm

    Dubai Group has acquired 51 per cent of Bahrain’s Acacia Real Estate through a $76.9m equity injection, structured through Dubai Ventures Group, its investment arm focusing on the capital markets and real estate markets.

  • Dubai group ups Intercontinental stake

    Dubai government holding, Diyafa World Limited, has increased its holding in the world's biggest hotel company InterContinental Hotels Group to 4.23%, reported The Peninsula. The Dubai group is an existing shareholder of the British hotelier and earlier this week increased its holding above 3% and then over 4%, but there was no indication from whom it bought the shares. InterContinental's biggest shareholder are the billionaire Barclay brothers who hold a 10% stake.

  • Dubai helicopter crash kills seven

    Seven people have died after a helicopter crashed during take-off into the deck of a Dubai off-shore oil rig, reported BBC. The helicopter, carrying two crew members and five passengers, was on a routine flight from the Rashid oil field, 70 kilometres (43.5 miles) from Dubai. An investigation is under way into the cause of the crash.

  • Dubai Helishow up in November

    Dubai Helishow 2008 is lining up a series of new attractions for the region's helicopter industry in the 3rd edition of the biennial International Helicopter Technology & Operations Exhibition or known as the Dubai Helishow 2008 from 11th to 13th November 2008 at the East Hall, Airport Expo, Dubai. The show will showcase helicopter products and services through indoor exhibits, static craft displays, and flight demonstrations.

  • Dubai investors to buy majority stake in Jordanian bank

    Dubai Islamic Bank (DIB) and a group of other Dubai-based investors are planning to acquire a controlling stake in Jordan’s Industrial Development Bank (IDB) and convert the institution into an Islamic bank.

  • Dubai invests in steel firm

    Dubai International Capital(DIC), the international investment arm of Dubai Holding, has announced the acquisition of a 45% stake in the UAE-based KEF Holding by its Emerging Markets division. KEF is a provider of steel castings for valves and pumps serving the oil and gas, mining, industrial, and chemical industries in the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the United States.

  • Dubai launches tourism campaign in US

    The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing office in New York is launching a 'crisis control' campaign aimed at boosting the emirate's travel market share in the US in the wake of the collapse of two of Wall Street's most powerful investment banks on Monday, The National has reported. The DTCM will increase advertising in the US to showcase the emirate's attractions, as well as opening another tourism office on the West Coast by the end of the year.

  • Dubai Mercantile Exchange appoints chief executive officer

    Dubai Mercantile Exchange (DME) has appointed Thomas Leaver as its new chief executive officer (CEO) from 1 September.

  • Dubai metro has trial run

    The Dubai metro held a trial run on Saturday as development of the emirate's first mass transit system moves nearer to completion. A train ran for 11km between Jebel Ali Station and Ibn Battuta Mall Station, starting its trial run at a speed of 30 km/h and accelerating up to 90 km/h, state news agency WAM reported. The train consisted of five coaches that can carry up to 643 passengers.

  • Dubai Metro to have special needs facilities

    The Dubai Metro will have facilities for people with special needs, including audio-visual guidance devices for hearing and vision-impaired individuals, said Mattar Al Tayer, the Chairman of the Board and Executive Director of the RTA on Monday. The facilities will also have floor sensors to guide individuals to the doors of Metro platforms and through up to the places designated for their seating. Services customised to suit these individuals also include lifts, escalators and ATMs, as well

  • Dubai plans $200bn canal

    Dubai is considering a project to build a $200bn mega-canal that would allow oil tankers to bypass the Strait of Hormuz and reduce Iran's influence on the flow of oil from the region, reported London's The Times. The canal would cross the UAE from Dubai to Fujairah through the country's mountainous hinterland. Over 90% of the Gulf's oil, which accounts for 40% of the world's traded supplies, must be transported through the Strait each day and Iran has said it will block the channel if threate

  • Dubai Properties awards $544m villa contract

    Local developer Dubai Properties has awarded the local Dubai Civil Engineering (DCE) the estimated AED2bn ($544m) contract to built 800 villas in Dubailand.

  • Dubai Properties to start work on garden city in 2009

    Local developer Dubai Properties plans to start infrastructure works on its AED200bn ($54bn) Mohammed bin Rashid Gardens project at the start of 2009.

  • Dubai regulator appoints new chief executive

    The regulator of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has appointed a new chief executive officer who will replace the incumbent David Knott in December.

  • Dubai regulator orders GFS Investments to pay compensation to customers

    The regulator of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has ordered a foreign-exchange trading business to pay AED1.8m ($502,000) compensation to its customers.

  • Dubai suspends oil production at Rashid after helicopter crash

    Oil production from Dubai’s Rashid field has been suspended after a helicopter crashed into an oil rig on 3 September, about 70 kilometres from the shore, killing all seven people on board.

  • Dubai’s non-oil trade up 54 per cent

    Dubai’s non-oil foreign trade increased by 54.3 per cent in the first half of 2008, or AED104.4bn ($28.4bn), to reach AED296.6bn.

  • Dubai-owned casino-resort on track

    Construction workers building CityCenter on the Las Vegas Strip have topped off the complex's centerpiece casino-resort, the second of six high-rises for the project. Officials for MGM Mirage, which has partnered with Dubai's government investment fund Dubai World in building the $9.1bn complex, say the 61-story, 4,000-room Aria Resort & Casino has taken 29 months to build so far. MGM Mirage says the tower will be fully enclosed by December. In addition to Aria, the 76-acre site is also expec

  • DuBiotech's research lab to open in Dec

    Dubai Biotechnology and Research Park (DuBiotech) has announced that its Dhs250m ($681m) research laboratory will open in December. The 250,000 square feet research lab will be able to accommodate 100 companies, depending on the company's requirements. The science and business park for life sciences industry, launched in 2005, currently has 42 companies who have set up offices in the free zone, and many more are in the pipeline, officials said.

  • Dusup to open Jebel Ali terminal bids in October

    Dubai Supply Authority (Dusup) expects to open the bids for a contract to build a liquefied natural gas (LNG) regasification terminal at Jebel Ali in early October.

  • Ecco to build Marina West sewage plant

    Bahrain's Energy Central Company (Ecco) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Marina West for the construction of sewage treatment plant for a residential scheme on the country's west coast.

  • Egypt leads Mideast outsourcing

    Egypt is seen as the strongest among other Middle East countries in the outsourcing market, according to a report from Yankee Group, Gulf News has reported. Abu Dhabi and Oman are also seen coming on strong in the outsourcing space, while Jordan and Dubai face longer odds. The report said that Middle East IT skill sets are viewed as largely untapped and available at competitive prices.

  • Egypt says kidnapped tourists freed

    Eleven European tourists and eight Egyptian guides kidnapped in Egypt 10 days ago have been freed and are in good condition, the government said. The hostages were on their way back to Cairo, state-owned Nile Television and Italian officials reported. There were no immediate details on how the captives were released.

  • EGYPT TENDER: Irrigation pumping station

    Construction, supply and erection of a main irrigation pumping station. Closing date: 22 December 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Office and laboratory buildings

    Construction of a company’s general secretariat building and a laboratories building. Closing date: 27 September 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Offshore petroleum exploration concessions

    Provision of offshore concessions for petroleum exploration and exploitation. Closing date: 9 February 2009

  • EGYPT TENDER: Plaza construction project

    Carrying out a plaza construction project. Closing date: 16 September 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Power plant project consultancy services

    Provision of consultancy services for a combined cycle power plant project. Closing date: 2 November 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Power station electric transformers

    Supply of electric transformers for a power station. Closing date: 13 October 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Power transmission line (120km)

    Carrying out civil and erection works for an overhead power transmission line. Closing date: 22 September 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Power transmission line (140km)

    Carrying out civil and erection works for an overhead power transmission line. Closing date: 22 September 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Railway signaling system modernisation

    Modernisation of a signaling system for a railway line. Closing date: 7 October 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Residential towers

    Carrying out a residential housing project. Closing date: 13 October 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Rock phosphate reserve exploration

    Exploring and determining reserves of rock phosphate. Closing date: 12 October 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Trucks

    Supply of 15 double-cabin semi trucks. Closing date: 20 September 2008

  • EGYPT TENDER: Trucks (12-tonne)

    Supply of 15 trucks. Closing date: 20 September 2008

  • Egypt to supply Lebanon with 450MW of power

    Lebanese Energy & Water Resources Minister Alain Tabourian has announced that Egypt will supply his country with 450MW of power, according to reports from the official Jordan News Agency, Petra.

  • EgyptAir announces $529m Boeing deal

    EgyptAir has announced it has placed an order for two new Boeing 777-300ER airliners in a deal worth $529m at list prices.

  • EgyptAir orders two Boeing aircraft

    EgyptAir has ordered two new Boeing 777-300ER airliners in a deal worth $529m at list prices, Meed has reported. The carrier will receive the first of the long-haul aircraft on lease in January 2010, with the other plane to be delivered later that year. The airline also has options on a further two of the US manufacturer's long-range carriers, which if exercised, would see these planes delivered in 2010.

  • Egyptian inflation rises to 24 per cent

    Egyptian inflation rose to 23.6 per cent in the year to August, according to the latest figures from Central Agency for Public Mobilisation & Statistics.

  • Eight shortlisted to build $2bn Enfida port in Tunisia

    Tunisia has shortlisted eight international operators for the construction of a €1.4bn ($2bn) port at Enfida.

  • Emcor begins Bahrain operations

    Emcor Facilities Services (Bahrain) W.L.L has launched its operations in Bahrain, under a joint venture between Bahrain Financial Harbour Holding Company and Financial Centre Development Company, and and Emcor Facilities Services Group Ltd. The company will provide comprehensive services to Bahrain Financial Harbour development to include complete range of estate management and customer support services, operations and maintenance, asset and property management and integrated system solutions

  • Emirates A380 flies on Sept 12

    Commercial flights of Emirates A380 to New York will resume on Friday, September 12, Khaleej Times has reported. Emirates has temporarily replaced the Dubai-New York route with twice-a-day flights using its Boeing 777-300ER. Emirates is currently operating the A380 to New York twice a week for the month of September because of training requirements.

  • Emirates academy to offer maritime courses

    The Emirates International Maritime Academy has announced that it has recently signed an agreement with Lloyds Register to offer maritime courses in the UAE. EIMA and Lloyds Register will jointly offer and develop maritime courses in the fields of security, safety and ship classifications in addition to organising maritime seminars and workshops.

  • Emirates grounds Airbus A380 plane because of electrical problem

    An electrical fault has forced Emirates Airline to temporarily suspend use of its new Airbus A380 on 7 September.

  • Emirates Holidays offers packages to California

    Emirates Holidays is offering a range of discounted packages to California, with just a month to go before Emirates Airline launches its non-stop flights from Dubai to the West Cost. John Felix, Senior Vice President of Emirates Holidays, said the carrier's first non-stop flights to LA will take place on October 26, while non-stop service to San Francisco will begin on December 15.

  • Emirates launches Umrah flights

    Emirates Airline announced an additional 47 extra flights from Dubai to Jeddah to facilitate travel for the millions of pilgrims visiting Saudi Arabia during the Holy month of Ramadan. The additional services can be accessed only by travellers holding a valid Umrah visa, starting 1st Sept until 15th October.

  • Emirates offers complimentary stay at Atlantis

    Emirates Airline has unveiled a new promotion in which passengers flying to or via Dubai over the coming months will receive a complimentary stay at the new Atlantis, Palm Jumeirah. The offer includes unlimited access during their stay at Atlantis to the water playground Aquaventure.

  • Emirates Palace seeks to lure US tourists

    The Emirates Palace Hotel has been successful in marketing the luxury property to the leisure and business travel market in the US, according to Hans Olbertz, the hotel's general manager. The hotel recently held a series of roadshows in major US cities with the aim of promoting the hotel. According Olbertz, the US travel and tourism officials have welcomed the increase in direct flights from the US to the UAE. He said Etihad Airways was also planning more flights in future.

  • Emirates' profits to be hit by oil prices

    Shaikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates Airlines, said the effects of high oil prices are likely to be strongly felt by the carrier, which is due to post profits in April, reported Khaleej Times. He said the 'uncontrollable impact' of oil prices will affect the airline's profits, but the exact impact remains to be seen. The airline had earlier forecast to make profits of $1.5bn in 2008-09. Emirates made a net profit of over $1.37bn in 2007-08.

  • Emirates raises $265m Islamic financing

    Dubai-based Emirates Airline has announced that it has raised $265m in Islamic financing for two new Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. The transaction involves long-term leases for a period of 12 years. Noor Islamic Bank arranged the Mandated Lead Arranger group comprising of Barclays Capital, CCB International Finance Limited, Noor Islamic Bank PJSC, SAMBA Financial Group and Standard Chartered Bank. The first of the two aircraft was delivered in May 2008 and the second on 28 August 2008.

  • Emirates raises $265m to finance planes

    Emirates Airline has raised AED973.4m ($265m) through an Islamic loan for two new aircraft.

  • Emirates wins award for in-flight entertainment

    Emirates Airline has recently been cited for its excellence in passenger in-flight entertainment during the World Airline Entertainment Association's Avion Awards in California, USA. Emirates was declared winner of the top award in the passenger-voted category of Best In-flight Entertainment in the World Large Airlines, as well as scooping Best in Region for Middle East and Africa. The airline was also declared first runner-up in two categories judged by industry experts - Best New Technology

  • Emirates, Sabre ink 10-year deal

    Emirates Airline has signed a 10-year agreement with world-leading travel distribution provider Sabre Travel Network. The agreement will give Sabre Connected travel agencies and corporations around the world access to Emirates' full content fares for the next 10 years through the Sabre global distribution system. With more corporate and online customers than any other GDS in the marketplace, Sabre Travel Network provides Emirates the ability to reach more corporate and leisure travellers usin

  • Emivest to invest $1bn in SSAC

    Emirates Investment and Development Company (Emivest) plans to invest about $1bn in a US-based light executive jet manufacturer after buying it in June, reported Gulf News. Emivest chairman Buti Saeed Al Ghandi said the investment will enable Texas-based Sino Swearingen Aircraft Corporation to design and develop its second executive jet. The Dubai investment firm owns 80% of SSAC, which makes the SJ30 business aircraft, advertised as 'the world's fastest, longest range and highest flying ligh

  • Empost launches navigation system

    Empost, a UAE-based courier, cargo and logistics company, has launched a state-of-the-art navigation system covering its fleet of delivery cars and motor-cycles. The system includes wireless communication technologies such as the mobile data service, GPRS (General Packet Radio Service), the satellite-based navigation system GPS (Global Positioning System), messaging and other tracking systems.

  • ESB International bids for Bahraini power work

    Bahrain’s Electricity & Water Authority (EWA) has received one bid for a transmission network consultancy contract.

  • Etihad adds 24 flights to Jeddah

    Etihad Airways announced an additional 24 flights will operate during Ramadan between Abu Dhabi and Jeddah, as well as special flights to Medina Al Munawara. Etihad's extra flights to Jeddah and Medina will be operated by two cabin Airbus A330-200.

  • Etihad appoints managing director for operations in Russia

    Etihad Airways has appointed Geoff Rhodes as the airline’s new manager for its operations in Russia.

  • Etihad denies merger talks

    Etihad Airways has denied a report claiming that it is in merger talks with UK-based airline BMI, reported Gulf News. Thomas Clarke, a spokesman for Etihad, said the carrier has no firm talks planned with any airline or any proposals in the pipeline with any new possible partner.

  • Etihad eyes hotel sector

    The CEO of Abu-Dhabi based Etihad Airlines said the carrier is interested in expanding into the hotel business, reported Reuters. Asked if Etihad would take part in mergers and consolidations of airlines, Hogan told the newswire: 'We talk to people in a wide range of areas - we'd like to move into hotels'. Etihad, one of the fastest growing airlines in the world, made its first flight in November 2003 and currently flies to 48 destinations in the Middle East, Europe, North America, Africa and

  • Etihad eyes merger with BMI

    Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways has held talks with BMI British Midland about a possible merger that could value the airline at up to $1.07 billion, the UK's Sunday Times has reported. Etihad has approached both BMI and Lufthansa, the German airline that holds a stake in BMI, about the potential merger. Lufthansa has an option to take complete control of BMI later this year or early next. However, it is understood it wants to sell its stake for around $357m and that talks with Etihad were held

  • Etihad marks busiest summer

    Etihad Airways said this summer is its busiest summer period in its four year history, with more than 1.6 million passengers flying onboard the airline's flights in June, July and August. During these months, Etihad has posted an average of 83% full, an increase of 46% on the same period from the year before, with 1st August as its busiest day, recording 20,721 passengers.

  • Etihad partners with Travelport

    Etihad Airways has inked a deal with Travelport GDS for the latter to develop and implement a portfolio of customized data analysis solutions. The partnership will utilise Travelport's Acuity application system to deliver airline business intelligence and market analysis for customers.

  • Etihad targets 25 million passengers

    Etihad Airways has set its sights on flying 25 million passengers a year by 2020, according to the Abu Dhabi-based airline's chief executive. CEO James Hogan announced the ambitious targets while addressing the American media in New York. In addition to the flight network growth, Etihad's workforce could also grow to 27,000 people by 2020, from its current 6,600, with most of the jobs based in Abu Dhabi.

  • Etihad to codeshare with Malaysia

    Etihad Airways has signed a new codeshare agreement with Malaysia Airlines. Under the deal, the Abu Dhabi-based airline will place its two-letter 'EY' code on Malaysia Airlines' flights between the country's capital city, Kuala Lumpur, and the popular islands of Kota Kinabalu, Penang, Kuching and Langkawi. In turn, Malaysia Airlines will place its 'MH' code on services operated by Etihad between its home base of Abu Dhabi and Bahrain, Doha and Muscat in the Gulf region.

  • Etihad to fly to 100 cities by 2020

    Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways plans to fly to 50 destinations by the end of 2008 and 100 cities by 2020, reported Reuters. Etihad CEO James Hogan said the airline's passenger numbers rose more than 40% in the first half of 2008 compared with the same period last year. The airline carried 2.8 million passengers from Jan. 1 through June 30, compared with nearly 2 million in the first half of 2007.

  • Fairmont announces new Morocco resort

    Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has announced a new property, Fairmont Marrakech, Morocco, slated to open in 2011. The 190-room resort, which will be designed to capture the essence of Marrakech, will join other hotels in the region including Fairmont Zanzibar, Tanzania; Fairmont Towers Heliopolis, Cairo; and Fairmont Mara Safari Club, Kenya.

  • Fire breaks out at Mina al-Ahmadi refinery

    A fire broke out at Kuwait’s largest oil refinery on 3 September, after an operations accident caused a pipeline leak to ignite.

  • Fire damages Sharjah port

    A massive fire destroyed the dispatch and packaging unit of Emirates Refining Company located at Port Khalid on Saturday morning, resulting in partial suspension of operations at the port. Around 150 people were working in the facility when the fire erupted. There has been no information about any casualties so far, the Civil Defence has confirmed.

  • Fire destroys depot at Port Khalid

    Massive fire broke out at midnight at a storage facility of an oil refining company located in Sharjah's Port Khalid, injuring two people, Gulf News has reported. The fire is said to have started at Emirates Oil Refining Company, while emergency teams try to contain the fire spreading over just 200 metres away from the oil storage facility of Emirates Lube Oil Company.

  • Fire may delay Atlantis opening

    A massive fire which broke out in the lobby of The Atlantis Hotel on the Palm Jumeirah on Tuesday has cast doubt on the opening of the hotel, which had been scheduled for September 24. Early reports say the fire may have started as welders were working in the area. The hotel management said the extent of the damage has yet to be determined, but that it would cause no delay in the opening of the resort. However, sources told Gulf News that the opening would be delayed.

  • Fire threatens to delay opening of Dubai's Atlantis hotel

    A fire at the Atlantis, The Palm hotel on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah could threaten to delay the opening of the resort.

  • Firms begin construction work on Jabal Omar in Mecca

    Construction work on the $2.7bn Jabal Omar project in Mecca has started.

  • Firms bid for Oman Gas Company compressor work

    Seven local and international contractors have submitted bids for an estimated $50m engineering, procurement and construction contract to build a gas compressor station at the Nimr field in the south of Oman.

  • Firms submit bids for design of Jabal al-Akhdar hotel

    Oman Tourism & Development Company (Omran) has received bids from three firms for the lead consultant and architect role on the development of the Jabal al-Akhdar hotel project in the Nizwa area.

  • Firms submit bids for Dubai Techno Park infrastructure contract

    Bids have been submitted for a AED2bn ($545m) infrastructure package at Dubai Techno Park.

  • Firms submit bids for Kuwait road improvement work

    Bids have been submitted for road improvement works in Kuwait.

  • Firms submit bids for Shadidyah housing project

    Local firms have submitted bids for a housing project in Kuwait's Shadidiyah district.

  • Firms to submit bids for Gate of Kuwait in October

    Bids for the Gate of Kuwait are expected to be submitted in October.

  • Firms to submit bids for Riyadh communications authority building contract

    Bids are to be submitted for a new government headquarters building in Riyadh on 14 October.

  • First Calgary buyout boosts Eni's Algerian gas assets

    Italy’s Eni has bought Canada’s First Calgary Petroleums for $865m in a move that will strengthen the Rome-based firm’s oil and gas assets in Algeria.

  • First Dubai metro station nears completion

    The first elevated station for the Dubai Metro is nearly complete, Gulf News has reported. The station, which is located near the Jebel Ali Industrial area, was the first to get ready for the trial run of the trains which are now running on an 11-km test track between the Jebel Ali and the Ibn-Batutta Station. Overall, there will be 47 stations for the Dubai Metro including two transfer underground stations - one at the Union Square in Deira and the Bur Juman Station in Bur Dubai.

  • Fitch upgrades Kuwaiti credit rating

    Fitch Ratings has upgraded Kuwait to AA from AA- as a result of the fiscal surplus being generated from the high oil price.

  • Fitch upgrades rating of five Kuwaiti banks

    Rating agency Fitch Ratings has upgraded the credit rating of five Kuwaiti banks based on an upgrade of the Kuwaiti sovereign rating from AA- to AA and the increased ability of the government to give financial support to the banking sector if required.

  • Foreign investment in the region reaches $94bn

    Foreign direct investment (FDI) in the Middle East and North Africa reached $94bn in 2007, up from $87bn the previous year, as key economies made it easier for foreign companies to do business.

  • Four in line for Saham wastewater work

    Four companies have purchased tender documents for a new contract in Oman’s wastewater sector. The deadline for bids is 28 October.

  • Fujairah port gets $245m loan

    The UAE's Port of Fujairah has signed an agreement to borrow $245m to finance expansion plans, reported Reuters. The port's debut syndicated loan facility arranged by the National Bank of Fujairah and Commercial Bank of Dubai was heavily oversubscribed. It will be used to expand existing facilities and develop new facilities.

  • Galfar to expand Barka reservoirs in Oman

    The local Galfar Engineering & Contracting Company has been awarded the estimated RO33m ($85m) contract to expand reservoirs and transmission facilities at the Barka desalination plant.

  • Gati opens office in Dubai Airport Free Zone

    Gati, a leader in the express distribution and supply chain solutions in India, has made its foray into the Middle East market setting up operations in Dubai Airport Free Zone. Gati has offices in China, Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. In India, Gati has over 4000 vehicles on road covering 594 out of 608 districts, with mechantronic warehousing facilities of 1.5 million sq. ft. across all major cities in the country.

  • GCC approves draft deal on monetary union

    GCC finance ministers have approved a draft agreement on the general structure of a proposed monetary union but deferred a decision on the location of a central bank.

  • GCC firms' landline customers decrease

    GCC telecoms operators experienced a 6.9 per cent drop in the number of fixed-line customers in 2007 because people are increasingly giving up land lines and relying on mobile phones, says a report by Kuwait's Global Investment House.

  • GCC sales boost Airbus

    Habib Fekih, President of Airbus in the Middle East, said the European plane-maker has won 65% of new aircraft orders from Gulf carriers so far this year, reported Khaleej Times. Fekih also said GCC sales have helped boost Airbus ahead of its rival Boeing in global sales of aircraft. He vowed Airbus would sustain its lead on the back of growth in the region's low cost carrier market.

  • GFH sells Banyan Tree desert resort

    Gulf Finance House has agreed to sell the Banyan Tree Desert Resort and Spa to a Singaporean investor for an undisclosed sum, Gulf Daily News has reported. The development is part of GFH's Al Areen project, being built over two million square metres in Bahrain's Sakhir area. GFH officials were not available to comment on why the bank had decided to sell the resort or identify the buyer.

  • GGICO buys Lloyds Engineering

    Gulf General Investment, a Dubai-based conglomerate, has acquired Lloyds Engineering, a company specializing in steel fabrication and oil-field services. Lloyds Engineering Company is headquartered in the Ras Al Khor industrial area in Dubai and is currently building an additional facility in Sharjah. GGICO was established in 1973 and is a Dubai Financial Market listed company, according to a press statement.

  • Global downturn hits regional aviation

    Growth in airline passenger traffic in the Middle East has slowed further in August, as the industry suffers from continued high fuel costs.

  • Global Investment House aims to secure $410m loan

    Kuwait’s Global Investment House (GIH) is aiming to raise a $410m three-year syndicated loan to finance its acquisition of a 20 per cent stake in National Bank of Umm al-Quwain (NBQ).

  • Global Trading expresses interest in Oman sewage deal

    One firm has so far expressed interest in the tender for the construction of a new sewerage system and the upgrading of the existing sewage treatment plant in Barka South, in Oman.

  • Global Village extends opening

    Global Village in Dubai has announced it will open to the public from November 12 to February 21 during its new season. The premises will open its doors for an extra 21 days in response to high demand from visitors. In the 2007-08 season, Global Village registered a footfall of nearly 4.5 million through the participation of 30 pavilions, 120 kiosks and service areas, and 32 restaurants, according to a press statement.

  • Golden Tulip to open hotel at Amwaj

    The Golden Tulip Hospitality Group is to open its second hotel in Bahrain, at Amwaj Islands. The Amwaj Gateway Development Company (AGDC), a subsidiary of RealCapita, has signed a contract with the group for the Royal Tulip Hotel to open in the project's central tower. It will consist of 20 floors, in addition to adjacent townhouses.

  • Growth in Qatar money supply slows to 10 per cent

    Money supply in Qatar grew by 9.8 per cent between the end of March and the end of June.

  • Gulf Air and Edamah plan Bahrain airport maintenance facility

    Gulf Air has agreed with Bahrain Real Estate Company (Edamah) to build a hangar and maintenance facility at Bahrain International Airport worth more than $50m.

  • Gulf Air buys eight 787s

    Bahrain's national carrier, Gulf Air, has signed a deal with Boeing to buy eight 787 Dreamliners to upgrade its fleet, reported Gulf Daily News. The deal will take the number of 787s on order by the carrier to 24.

  • Gulf Air joins effort to develop bio-fuel

    Bahrain's national carrier Gulf Air has joined an industry consortium which aims to develop bio-fuel for aircraft by 2013, reported Gulf Daily News. The airline is partnering with eight other carriers, including Air France and KLM, along with Boeing and refining technology developer, Honeywell UOP, to fund research which will produce environmentally-friendly economic fuel. The consortium's charter is to enable the commercial use of renewable fuel sources that can reduce greenhouse gas emissio

  • Gulf Finance House to launch UK real estate fund

    Gulf Finance House (GFH), the Bahrain-based Islamic investment bank, is expected to launch a UK real estate investment fund after Ramadan to capitalise on falling prices in the country.

  • Gulf investors plan aluminium extrusion plant in Algeria

    Saudi-based Construction Products Holding Company (CPC) and Dubai-based Alumco have formed a joint venture to set up an aluminium extrusion factory in Algeria.

  • Gulf markets fall after collapse of Lehman Brothers

    Markets across the Gulf have fallen sharply, following the collapse of Lehman Brothers, one of the largest US investment banks.

  • Gulf Projects 01 September 2008

    Strong growth in the Saudi and Iraqi markets resulted in the MEED Projects index rising by 2 per cent to $2.49 trillion in the week ending 1 September.

  • Gulf Projects 08 September 2008

    The MEED Projects index has exceeded $2.5 trillion for the first time, following a 0.5 per cent increase in the value of Gulf projects planned and under way.

  • Gulf projects 15 September 2008

    The total value of projects planned and under way in the Gulf rose by 1.1 per cent to $2.53 trillion in the week to 15 September.

  • Gulf projects 22 September 2008

    The MEED Projects index edged up by just 0.9 per cent to $2.55 trillion in the week to 22 September, as new project activity slackened in the run-up to the Eid al-Fitr holiday.

  • Gulfsands to boost oil production in Syria

    Gulfsands Petroleum, the UK-based oil exploration company, says it is expanding its early production facility in Syria to boost production to 18,000 barrels-a-day (b/d).

  • Hilton launches 'Mini-Breaks'

    Hilton Hotels have launched its Hilton Mini Breaks brochure for holidaymakers looking for a short break in the Middle East & Indian Ocean. The Waldorf=Astoria Collection will participate with Qasr Al Sharq in this leisure product offered across 180 Hilton Family Hotels in the Middle East, Indian Ocean, UK and Europe.

  • Hotel Show adds spa segment

    The Hotel Show is extending this year's event with a new element focusing on city and beach properties for top-line sports and spa facilities. The Hotel Show takes place at the Dubai International Conference & Exhibition Centre on 24-26 May 2009 with the new arena as The Resort Experience and a Middle East Spa Summit alongside the product displays.

  • HSBC secures advisory mandate for Jizan aluminium smelter

    HSBC has been awarded the advisory mandate for a $5bn aluminium smelter to be built in the Jizan Economic City in Saudi Arabia.

  • IGY to build yacht marina

    Island Global Yachting has revealed its plans to build the Palm Jumeirah Mega Yacht Marina. IGY is expecting completion of the project during Q3 2009. It will be located on the west side of Palm Jumeirah's trunk, adjacent to the Trump International Hotel & Tower.

  • IIB buys stake in sugar refinery

    Bahrain-based International Investment Bank has acquired a 14.29% strategic equity stake in a sugar refinery to be established in Bahrain in the Hidd industrial area. The refinery will be the first of its kind in the Kingdom and the third in the GCC. The sugar refinery, to be established at an estimated cost of $157m, is expected to be operational in two years and will manufacture white sugar to be marketed in the Middle East and European markets. The refinery will have an annual production o

  • Imco set to win Kuwait refinery contract

    The local Imco Engineering & Construction is in line for the contract to provide maintenance services at the Mina Abdulla refinery, after the Central Tenders Committee approved its offer of KD19m ($70.4m).

  • Inflation in Iran rises to 27.6 per cent

    Iran's rate of inflation reached 27.6 per cent for the year up to 21 August, according to the latest figures from the Central Bank of Iran.

  • Inflation in Morocco falls to 4.8 per cent

    Morocco's rate of inflation fell to 4.8 per cent in the 12 months to the end of August, according to the country's statistics body, the High Planning Commission.

  • ING to launch $1bn equity fund in October

    ING Investment Management will launch its $1bn Middle East equity fund in October, hoping to capitalise on the current depressed valuations in the regional markets.

  • Iran Air flight catches fire

    An Iran Air flight heading to Tehran was forced to returned to Mumbai soon after take-off and make an emergency landing after one of its engines caught fire, reported AFP. All 294 passengers on board the Boeing 747-200 aircraft (Iran Air flight IR 811) were safe after the landing on Tuesday night.

  • Iran and Oman hold talks over Kish gas field

    Iran’s oil minister has held further talks with his Omani counterpart over the development of Iran's Kish gas field.

  • Iran central bank governor resigns after rates decision

    Tahmasb Mazaheri, the governor of the Central Bank of Iran,has resigned days after he went against official government policy, by allowing banks to increase the interest rates that they pay on deposits.

  • Iran criticises stalled UAE gas deal

    Iran’s interior minister has criticised a proposed gas deal with the UAE’s Crescent Petroleum as failing to serve the country’s interest, adding that contract talks have been stalled for 12 years.

  • Iran prepares masterplan for Lavan gas field

    Iran Offshore Oil Company (IOOC) expects to issue a masterplan for its Lavan gas field by October, according to a contractor close to the project, with an award for its development to be made by March 2009 to an international oil company.

  • IRAN TENDER: Anti-oxidant

    Supply of 20,000 kilos of anti-oxidant. Closing date: not stated

  • IRAN TENDER: Antistatic additive

    Supply of antistatic additive. Closing date: 24 September 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Canals and drainage system construction

    Construction of new canals and a drainage system. Closing date: 2 November 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Cold carbon ramming paste

    Supply of cold carbon ramming paste. Closing date 22 October 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Down-hole completion equipment

    Supply of down-hole completion equipment. Closing date: 8 October 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Drilling rig management services

    Provision of management services for the engineering and operation of drilling rigs at oil wells. Closing date: not stated

  • IRAN TENDER: Electrode paste

    Supply of electrode paste. Closing date: 18 October 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Local community project consultancy services

    Provision of consultancy services comprising the empowerment of the local community and capacity building for city management in informal settlements. Closing date: 9 October 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Metallurgical coke

    Supply of 10,000 tonnes of metallurgical coke. Closing date: 28 September 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Metallurgical coke

    Supply of 10,000 tonnes of metallurgical coke. Closing date: 28 September 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Mobile phone operating licence

    Provision of an operating licence to a third mobile phone operator. Closing date: 11 January 2009

  • IRAN TENDER: Plasma products

    Production of plasma products. Closing date: 12 October 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Port risk assessment and reduction consultancy

    Provision of engineering consultancy services for the assessment and reduction of risk in local ports. Closing date: not stated

  • IRAN TENDER: Rails

    Supply of 10,000 tonnes of rail. Closing date: 1 November 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Wastewater treatment plant construction (Neyshabour)

    Construction of a wastewater treatment plant. Closing date: 28 September 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Wastewater treatment plant construction (Sabzevar)

    Construction of a wastewater treatment plant. Closing date: 28 September 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Water pumping station

    Construction of a main water pumping station and associated wastewater transmission line pipe. Closing date: 22 October 2008

  • IRAN TENDER: Water treatment plant DBO services

    Provision of design, build and operate (DBO) services for a water treatment plant. Closing date: 16 September 2008

  • Iranians sign Damavand power plant deal

    Iran’s National Petrochemical Company (NPC) and the Iran Power Projects Management Company (Mapna) have signed a memorandum of understanding to build a power plant for the Damavand petrochemicals company.

  • Iran's oil minister replaces energy directors

    Iran’s Oil Minister Gholamhossein Nozari has replaced the managing directors of three state-run oil and gas firms as part of ongoing changes in the country's energy industry.

  • Iraq approves $3bn oil field deal with China

    Iraq's cabinet has approved a renegotiated agreement with China for the development of the Al-Ahdab oil field in the province of Wasit - the first field contract to be approved by Baghdad since the end of the war.

  • Iraq increases 2009 transport ministry budget

    The Iraqi cabinet has raised the allocation to the Transportation Ministry in the national budget for 2009.

  • Iraq launches hydropower and wind farm studies

    The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has invited companies to bid for contracts to carry out detailed feasibility studies for hydropower plants and wind energy farms.

  • Iraq leases berths at Khor al-Zubair port

    Iraq is offering short-term lease agreements at the southern port of Khor al-Zubair to complement the planned $1bn privatisation at Umm Qasr.

  • Iraq set to vote on election bill

    Iraq's Council of Representatives (parliament) is set to vote on a provincial elections bill by 25 September, aiming to break the deadlock over the issue before the end of Ramadan.

  • IRAQ TENDER: Amphibious excavators

    Supply of 40 amphibious excavators. Closing date: 25 September 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Bulldozers (1)

    Supply of 20 bulldozers. Closing date: 6 October 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Bulldozers (2)

    Supply of 20 bulldozers. Closing date: 7 October 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Chemicals

    Supply of chemicals. Closing date: 20 October 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Chlorine and chemical units

    Supply of chlorine and chemical units. Closing date: 5 November 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Crawlers

    Supply of 50 standard crawlers. Closing date: 22 September 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Furnace pipes

    Supply of pipes and u-bends for furnaces. Closing date: 20 October 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Hydraulic excavators

    Supply of 50 hydraulic excavators. Closing date: 21 September 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Hydropower plant feasibility studies

    Carrying out detailed feasibility studies for three hydropower plants. Closing date: 20 October 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Pipes and fittings

    Supply of alloy steel pipes and fittings. Closing date: 29 September 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Plastic can production line

    Provision of a plastic can production line. Closing date: 20 October 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Surveying equipment

    Supply of surveying equipment as part of an agricultural project. Closing date: 14 October 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Truck mixers

    Supply of 20 truck mixers. Closing date: 9 October 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Tubes

    Supply of tubes. Closing date: 29 September 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Water treatment plant construction supervision (Al-Nasr)

    Provision of construction supervision services for a drinking water treatment plant and water distribution network. Closing date: 6 October 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Water treatment plant construction supervision (Ghammas)

    Provision of construction supervision services for a drinking water treatment plant and water distribution network. Closing date: 6 October 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Water treatment plant construction supervision (Maimona)

    Provision of construction supervision services for a drinking water treatment plant and water distribution network. Closing date: 6 October 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Water treatment plant construction supervision (Wasit)

    Provision of construction supervision services for a drinking water treatment plant and water distribution network. Closing date: 28 September 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Weed harvesters

    Supply of 15 aquatic weed harvesters. Closing date: 8 October 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Wheel loaders

    Supply of 20 wheel loaders. Closing date: 28 September 2008

  • IRAQ TENDER: Wind energy feasibility study

    Carrying out detailed feasibility studies into wind energy. Closing date: 20 October 2008

  • Iraq-Kuwait aviation dispute reaches Canadian courts

    The latest round in the dispute between Kuwait Airways and Iraqi Airways will take place in a Canadian court on 18 September.

  • Ittefaq Steel to raise fund in IPO

    Saudi Arabia's Al-Ittefaq Steel is intending to sell 30% of its stake in an initial public offering (IPO) in the fourth quarter of 2008, according to a top financial executive, Kuwait Times has reported. The fund is intended for expansions, consisting mainly of melt shops, direct reduction plants and flat products plants.

  • Jebel Ali adds new cranes

    DP World has further expanded capacity at Jebel Ali terminal with the arrival of new giant tandem lift gantry cranes, the biggest of its kind in the world, and rail mounted gantry (RMG) cranes for phase two of Container Terminal 2. According to a press statement, eight new tandem lift cranes and 20 RMGs have been delivered to the new terminal, doubling the number of tandem lift cranes and taking the number of RMGs at the terminal to 38. Six of the tandem lifts and 18 of the RMGs have been com

  • Jet Airways launches daily service to Muscat

    India's Jet Airways is expanding its Gulf network by launching daily service from Muscat to Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of the Indian state of Kerala, beginning September 15. Jet Airways' flight 9W 529 (Muscat-Thiruvananthapuram) will depart Muscat at 0030 hrs and arrive Thiruvananthapuram at 0535 hrs. On the return leg, flight 9W 530 (Thiruvananthapuram-Muscat) will depart Thiruvananthapuram at 0755 hrs and arrive Muscat at 1030 hrs.

  • Jet Airways reschedules Kochi flights

    Jet Airways has rescheduled flights operating between Kuwait and Kochi, India effective September 1. Jet Airways' flight 9W 573 (Kuwait-Kochi) will depart Kuwait International Airport at 11:30am and arrive at Kochi International Airport at 6:50pm. On the return leg, Jet Airways' flight 9W 574 (Kochi-Kuwait) will depart from Kochi International Airport at 8:15am and arrive at Kuwait International Airport at 10:30am.

  • Jordan continues subsidising household gas

    Jordan will continue to subsidise cylinders of gas used for domestic cooking and heating until at least the end of 2009, according to the Finance Ministry.

  • JORDAN TENDER: Air quality project consultancy

    Provision of consultancy services comprising technical assistance for an air quality monitoring system project. Closing date: 14 October 2008

  • JORDAN TENDER: Climate change specialist services

    Provision of international climate change specialist services. Closing date: 30 September 2008

  • JORDAN TENDER: Urban space redevelopment

    Construction and redevelopment of a major urban space. Closing date: 22 October 2008

  • JORDAN TENDER: Visitor centre construction

    Construction of a new visitor centre for the Petra gateway project. Closing date: 27 October 2008

  • Jordan to receive $3bn grant from US

    Jordan will get $3.3bn in a grant from the US government over the next five years, in a development that will help secure the country's finances in the medium term.

  • Jordanian development area attracts investors

    Jordan has attracted eight private sector companies to invest in a new development area in its easterly desert province of Mafraq, which borders Iraq.

  • Jumeirah to manage in Guangzhou

    Dubai-based hotel company, Jumeirah has clinched a deal with GT Land Holdings Limited to manage a luxury hotel in Guangzhou. The Jumeirah Guangzhou Hotel is the group's second hotel to be signed in China, offering a 200-room, five-star service at the centre of New Pearl City Tian He District. The hotel is scheduled to open in 2011.

  • Kema to upgrade Egypt’s electricity control centre

    Dutch consultant Kema has been selected for the project to upgrade Egypt’s National Energy Control Centre, according to Hafez el-Salmawy, managing director of the Egyptian Electric Utility & Consumer Protection Regulatory Agency.

  • Kempinski to run The Wave Muscat

    The Wave, Muscat has inked an agreement with Kempinski Hotels to develop and manage the property as a world class product. The Wave, Muscat, is a joint venture between Oman's Waterfront Investments, National Investment Funds Company and UAE based Majid Al Futtaim Group.

  • Kensington approached contractors for the Krystal

    Kensington Global Investments has invited selected contractors to express interest in a contract to build a commercial tower at Dubai Maritime City.

  • Kharafi bids low for Doha East renovation deal

    The local Kharafi National is the low bidder for the contract to renovate steam boilers at the Doha East power and water distillation plant in Kuwait.

  • Kidnappers free tourists in Egypt

    Kidnappers have freed 19 tourists they seized in Egypt, and all are safe and sound, Egypt's Foreign Minister Ahmed Aboul Gheit said on Monday. The tourists, identified as five Italians, five Germans, a Romanian and eight Egyptians, had been on safari in a remote desert border area, reported AP.

  • Kingdom Holding closes $800m bank facility

    Prince Alwaleed bin Talal’s Kingdom Holding has agreed a deal with three Saudi banks for a SR3bn ($800m) syndicated loan facility that is expected to be used for investments in local markets.

  • Kipco to increase syndicated loan to $130m

    The asset management arm of Kuwait Projects Company (Kipco) is going to increase the size of a syndicated loan it is raising from $100m to $130m.

  • Koreans in talks for Qatrana power plant

    A team of Korea Electric Power Corporation (Kepco) and Saudi Arabia’s Xenel Industries has entered into talks with Amman for the Al-Qatrana independent power project.

  • Kuwait invites firms to bid for Subiya work

    Kuwait's Electricity & Water Ministry has invited companies to bid by 28 October for a contract to dredge the seawater outlet canal at Subiya power station.

  • Kuwait island projects remain on hold

    Work on two proposed island projects in Kuwait has stalled as the developer awaits approval from Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser al-Mohammed al-Ahmed al-Sabah.

  • Kuwait Oil Company invites bids for Mina al-Ahmadi work

    Kuwait Oil Company (KOC) has invited bids for a consultancy contract to manage the facilities at its Mina al-Ahmadi township redevelopment.

  • Kuwait Systems to win road work

    The Central Tenders Committee has approved the KD5.8m ($20.7m) offer submitted by Kuwait Systems for General Trading & Contracting for the contract to provide maintenance services for the road network operated by Kuwait Oil Company (KOC).

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Satellite and ground channel digital devices

    Supply and installation of digital devices for the reception and recording of satellite and ground channels. Closing date: 26 October 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Air control radar system building

    Design, supply, installation and operation of a short and secondary long distance air control radar system building. Closing date: 26 October 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Boosting station closure control valves

    Replacement of closure control valves at boosting stations. Closing date: 23 November 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Cable repair and civil works

    Carrying out emergency repair works for medium-tension cables, pilot cables and related civil works. Closing date: 19 October 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Communications system

    Design, supply, installation and operation of a communications system. Closing date: 26 October 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Computer specialists

    Provision of computer specialists. Closing date: 30 September 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Gathering centre compressors

    Installation of new compressors at gathering centres. Closing date: 28 December 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: IT consultancy services

    Provision of IT consultancy services. Closing date: 14 October 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Overhead power lines

    Supply and installation of 400kV overhead power lines. Closing date: 4 November 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Police station

    Development of a police station in an industrial area. Closing date: 4 November 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Radio broadcasting devices

    Supply and testing of radio broadcasting devices. Closing date: 9 November 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Satellite and ground channel digital devices

    Supply and installation of digital devices for the reception and recording of satellite and ground channels. Closing date: 26 October 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Satellite and ground channel digital devices

    Supply and installation of digital devices for the reception and recording of satellite and ground channels. Closing date: 21 October 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Seawater outlet canal deepening

    Deepening of a seawater outlet canal at a power station. Closing date: 28 October 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Telephone network

    Supply of a telephone network. Closing date: 21 October 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Theatre construction

    Construction of a theatre. Closing date: 14 October 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Transformer station cleaning

    Cleaning of 197 main transformer stations. Closing date: 19 October 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Transformer station equipment maintenance (27)

    Maintenance of batteries, chargers and other equipment at main transformer stations. Closing date: 21 October 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Transformer station equipment maintenance (45)

    Maintenance of batteries, chargers and other equipment at main transformer stations. Closing date: 21 October 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: University cleaning works

    Carrying out general cleaning works for a university. Closing date: 21 October 2008

  • KUWAIT TENDER: Water towers and ground tanks

    Construction and maintenance of water towers and ground tanks. Closing date: 16 November 2008

  • Kuwaiti company to develop Hail economic city

    Kuwait-based developer Al-Mal Investment Company has signed an agreement with the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (Sagia) to become the sole developer of Prince Abdulaziz bin Mosaed Economic City at Hail.

  • Kuwait's Al-Mazaya to expand in UAE, Bahrain

    Kuwait’s Al-Mazaya Holding is to expand its presence in the region with the launch of two further companies in the GCC.

  • Lebanon set to decide on privatisation of mobile networks

    Lebanon's fractious political parties are expected to decide whether to proceed with the privatisation of the country's two mobile phone networks before the end of September, according to the head of the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA).

  • Libya makes oil discoveries

    Germany’s RWE and Canada’s Verenex Energy have made separate oil discoveries in Libya as part of consortiums with the state-run National Oil Corporation (NOC).

  • Libya signs aluminium smelter deal with UC Rusal

    The Libyan State Economic and Social Development Fund (ESDF) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Russia’s UC Rusal to develop an aluminium smelter in the North African country.

  • LIBYA TENDER: Asphalt production unit

    Supply and installation of a complete unit for producing cutback asphalt. Closing date: 8 October 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Drilling activities aviation services

    Provision of aviation services to support drilling activities. Closing date: 20 September 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Drilling fluid and mud engineering services

    Provision of drilling fluid and mud engineering services. Closing date: 2 October 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Electrical power system revamp

    Revamping of an electrical power system. Closing date: 7 October 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Inlet gas compression unit

    Installation of an inlet gas compression unit at the Wafa field. Closing date: 23 September 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Line pipe materials

    Supply of line pipe materials. Closing date: not stated

  • LIBYA TENDER: Offshore drilling activities

    Provision of offshore drilling activities. Closing date: 15 October 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Oil exploration services

    Provision of services for activities in three oil exploration operating areas. Closing date: 7 October 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Pipeline flow metering systems

    Supply and installation of flow metering systems on crude and product transfer pipelines. Closing date: 6 October 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Seismic acquisition survey services (Rebid)

    Provision of 3D offshore seismic acquisition survey services. Closing date: 14 September 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Seismic survey EIA studies

    Provision of environmental impact assessment (EIA) studies for seismic survey and drilling operations. Closing date: 28 September 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Sewage treatment units

    Design, construction, installation and commissioning of sewage treatment units. Closing date: 21 September 2008

  • LIBYA TENDER: Subsea wellheads and conductors

    Provision of subsea wellheads and conductors. Closing date: 20 October 2008

  • Light Group enters Dubai hospitality market

    Zabeel Capital and US-based hospitality development and management company Light Group have announced the launch of Light Group Dubai - Light Group's first operation outside the US. The launch of Light Group Dubai follows last month's opening of the Yellowtail Sushi restaurant at the Bellagio Resort and Casino in Las Vegas - the Light Group's fifth restaurant and its first since it partnered with Zabeel Capital. Light Group Dubai plans to introduce some of its dining and entertainment concept

  • Limitless launches $350m World island resort

    Dubai-based developer Limitless has announced plans to create, own and operate a $350m, 10.5 hectare ultra luxury resort on a manmade island 14km from the Dubai coastline. World Island Resort - on the north-east perimeter of The World development - will comprise a hotel and 53 villas and water homes. Each of the villas and water homes will have a beachfront location or sea frontage with a private jetty, summerhouse and mooring facilities, and will come with its own spa treatment room and swim

  • Limitless launches Dubai island project

    The UAE’s Limitless has launched a AED1.3bn ($350m) development on The World project off the coast of Dubai.

  • London Mining in Saudi iron ore JV

    London Mining announced its plans to produce 20m metric tonnes a year of iron ore through a joint venture in Saudi Arabia, Bloomberg has reported. The venture, Saudi London Iron has received the approval from Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority. Saudi Advanced Production for Iron and Steel is said to buy all the output from the venture based on international iron-ore pellet price and a premium to reflect transport cost savings.

  • Long Eid break boosts travel

    The exceptionally long Eid-Al-Fitr break increased the passenger traffic at UAE airports this weekend as a large number of residents took off for various destinations, reported Khaleej Times. Alpha Tours Travel and Holidays General Manager Fabian Fernandes said the long break had caused many to book holidays as far away as Australia and the Far East. Fernandes said there had been a last-minute 'mad rush' as residents realised the holiday possibilities.

  • Long queues at Saudi border

    The long queues for trucks seeking to enter Saudi Arabia's via its Ghowayfat-Batehaa check-point will not ease soon, reported Gulf News. Some truckers must wait for up to six days at the border before getting clearance from the Saudi authorities for their cargo. Although the UAE's Federal Customs Authority said last month most of the issues had been sorted out with the Saudis, problems related to specifications, documentation, conditions of freight, packaging, and inspection procedures remai

  • Low-cost carrier conference planned

    A new conference on the low-cost airline industry in the Middle East has been announced. The first-ever 'Low Cost Airlines World MENA' will be held in Abu Dhabi from 3-5 November 2008 at the Intercontinental Al-Ain Resort. The three-day conference will will provide an overview of the evolution of the low cost airline business model, explore maximiation of revenue from ancillary products and in-flight services, look at ways to develop viable and lucrative new routes and to enter new markets th

  • M Nialls Test

    M Nialls Test

  • Maaden power plant award due in October

    Discussions are continuing between Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Maaden) and the two bidders for the planned $3bn captive power plant at the Ras al-Zour intergrated aluminium complex.

  • Madaen al-Nour signs Jordanian housing deal

    The Jordanian-based Madaen al-Nour for Investments and Real Estate Development has formed a partnership with the Jordanian Housing and Urban Development Corporation for the construction of new housing units.

  • Maersk line launches new service to Aqaba

    Aqaba Container Terminal, the sole container terminal in the Kingdom of Jordan, has announced that Danish shipping line, Maersk, has a new weekly service to Aqaba calling directly to North America. This will be in addition to the weekly service presently calling from the Far East.

  • Maktoum Bridge to be toll-free at night

    Dubai Motorists will not be charged a toll fee on Al Maktoum Bridge from 10pm to 6am from Saturday to Thursday and from 10pm to 9am on Fridays once the new Salik gate is operational from September 9, reported Gulf News. The decision aims to facilitate motorists because the alternative route, the Floating Bridge, remains closed at night during these hours.

  • Man gets jail time for bomb hoax

    A Briton who caused a bomb hoax on an Emirates Flight in July has been sentenced to four months in jail, followed by 
deportation. The Dubai Criminal Court of First Instance convicted Mark Winter one week after the trial began following his request of a swift verdict. He was found guilty of jeopardizing the safety of the plane. He was also found guilty of assault charges. Winter had pleaded not guilty to attacking a passenger and assaulting a flight attendant, but admitted to drinking alcoh

  • Mauritania names new cabinet

    Mauritania’s military rulers have named a new 22-minister cabinet, almost a month after seizing power.

  • ME landscaping market worth $16bn

    A number of international landscaping designers and contractors are eyeing the blossoming regional landscaping business for a share of the $16.34bn regional landscaping market according to CMPi UAE, organizers of Gulf Landscaping scheduled to take place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from 17th to 18th November 2008. 'Prominent companies from Europe, Asia and Africa have confirmed their presence at Gulf Landscaping underlining the show's ability to provide a platform for landscape

  • ME profits to fall by $100m

    A report issued by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has trimmed growth forecasts for the global aviation industry to show airlines posting losses of $5.2bn, due mainly to the rising price of oil. Passenger traffic is now expected to grow on average by 3.2% (was 3.9%) and air freight volumes by 1.8% (was 3.9%). Middle Eastern profits will drop by $100m to $200m.

  • Mecca expansion curbs Umrah visas

    Ongoing expansion works in the holy sites in Mecca has led to reduced travelers, The Peninsula has reported. Travel agencies in Qatar said only Qatari passengers are seen booking as Saudi authorities have stopped issuing Umrah visas. Mecca municipal authorities have served notice to over 300 buildings and hotels for demolition as part of the Saudi government's plan to redevelop the east side of the Makkah Harem Area. Those included in the first phase of the demolition are Sofital, as well as

  • Mecca has shortage of rooms

    Mecca is facing a severe shortage of rooms for pilgrims this Ramadan following the demolition of about 1,000 properties to make way for the expansion of the Makkah Grand Mosque, reported The National. Visitors are now paying up to 25% more for accommodation due to the shortage.

  • MEI implements solar heating projects

    Millennium Energy Industries, a solar solutions company, has announced the successful commissioning of advanced solar energy solutions for two major industrial entities in Jordan. The Jordache Textile Factory, manufacturers of Levi's and GAP jeans, and the PMC Chocolate Factory, will save up to $600,000 at current energy prices, according to a press statement.

  • Metka and Anslado win Syrian power plant

    A consortium of Greece’s Metka and Italy’s Anslado has been awarded the contract to build a 700MW power plant in Syria.

  • Metrail wins City of Arabia monorail deal

    Switzerland’s Metrail has been awarded the contract to build the monorail system at the $5bn City of Arabia development in Dubailand.

  • Middle East contracts awarded: September 2008

    More than $11.4bn worth of contracts were awarded across the Middle East region in September, according to this selected checklist compiled from MEED reports throughout the month.

  • Milestone reached in ADIA runway

    Al Jaber Group has received an achievement certificate from the committee supervising the expansion of the Abu Dhabi International Airport for zero accidents during its five million man-hours while building the Runway Two of Abu Dhabi International Airport. Al Jaber Group and Odbrecht are due to complete the project by end of October this year. The new runway and taxiways are designed to accommodate the Airbus A380 aircrafts.

  • Mobile phone market slows down in Tunisia

    Tunisia's mobile phone market has slowed dramatically, with an increase of just 4 per cent in the number of customers over the last 12 months, according to the Communication Technologies Ministry.

  • Mobinil launches advanced mobile network

    Egypt's largest mobile phone operator, Mobinil, has launched its 3G network which should help it deal with rapidly rising demand for mobile services.

  • Modern Water to build desalination plant in Oman

    The UK’s Modern Water will build a manipulated-osmosis desalination plant in Oman, the first of its kind in the Middle East and only the second to be built in the world.

  • Mohammed al-Mojil Group wins Jubail work

    Saudi Arabian contractor Mohammed al-Mojil Group (MMG) has won additional sub-contract work for the $4bn National ChevronPhillips (NCP) olefins complex at Jubail.

  • Morgans Hotel rejects $1.4bn Zabeel bid

    Dubai investment fund Zabeel Investments failed last week in its bid to buy US-based Morgans Hotel, the London-based Times reported. The hotel group's board rejected Zabeel's offer of $684m, or $1.4bn including debt. Abu-Dhabi-based Mubadala Development is also interested in buying the hotel company but has yet to put forward a final proposal.

  • Morgans to build Delano Dubai

    Morgans Hotel Group (MHG) has said in its website it is launching Delano Dubai with a leading real estate development firm and will be operated by MHG under a long-term management contract. The hotel eyes opening by 2012 at the Dubai Waterfront. The hotel will have 200 guest rooms and 100 branded residences, and will include a restaurant, bar and spa.

  • Moroccan bank reports 23 per cent growth in profits

    Banque Marocain du Commerce Exterieur (BMCE) has reported a 23 per cent increase in first-half profits on the back of increased lending.

  • MOROCCO TENDER: Cable supply and fibre optic transmission equipment start-up

    Supply of cables and start up of fibre optic transmission equipment. Closing date: 15 October 2008

  • MOROCCO TENDER: Trading room management system

    Supply, implementation and maintenance of a management system for a trading room. Closing date: 22 October 2008

  • MOROCCO TENDER: Transport sector energy efficiency improvement consultancy

    Provision of consultancy services for a project to increase energy efficiency in the transport sector. Closing date: 21 September 2008

  • MOROCCO TENDER: Water purification plant

    Implementation of a water purification plant project. Closing date: 21 October 2008

  • MOROCCO TENDER: Water purification plant and transfer pipeline

    Supply of a water purification plant and transfer pipeline. Closing date: 7 October 2008

  • Mubadala and Petrofac form joint venture

    UAE-based Petrofac and Abu Dhabi-owned Mubadala Petroleum Services Company are to form a joint venture engineering, procurement and construction company.

  • Mubadala buys 50% stake in Kor Hotel Group

    Abu Dhabi-based investment firm Mubadala Development has bought a 50% stake in Los Angeles-based Kor Hotel Group, reported Reuters. Mubadala CEO Waleed Al-Muhairi said the partnerhsip will increase the firm's presence in the Middle East, North Africa and Asia, with premier business and resort developments planned to open in Abu Dhabi by 2012.

  • Nakheel to start dredging work on Dubai’s Universe project

    Local developer Nakheel plans to start dredging and reclamation works on its Universe project by the end of December.

  • Nas Air set to make profits in 2009

    Nas Air says it is on course to start making profits early in 2009, despite the pressure of fuel costs and an ongoing dispute over the government-imposed fare cap on domestic routes.

  • National Bank arranges $245m loan for Fujairah port expansion

    National Bank of Fujairah (NBF) has arranged a AED900m ($245m) syndicated loan for the expansion of the Port of Fujairah.

  • New airline targets Bangladeshis

    Best Air, a private Bangladeshi airline, has commenced scheduled flights between Dhaka and Dubai. The carrier will make four weekly flights (Saturday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday) on the route. The young airline aims to give quality service in terms of flight frequency, cancellation and punctuality as well as onboard hospitality. More than 800,000 Bangladeshis are estimated to be working in the UAE.

  • New Dubai-Tripoli flights launched

    Libya's Afriqiyah Airways will begin four direct weekly flights between Tripoli and Dubai as of Tuesday, reported Gulf News. These flights will be operated with a new Airbus A319 aircraft, which the company received on September 8. The Dubai-Tripoli route is already served by Emirates and Libyan Arab Airlines. Emirates increased its frequency to Tripoli from five to seven weekly flights earlier this year.

  • New taxi service set for Jordan

    The first dial-up taxi service in Amman, Jordan will start operating as of mid-October, after the scheduled operation for August was delayed, reported Jordan Times. A total of 240 taxis will start operating between October 15 and November 10. The new taxis will be silver in colour with blue-lit taxi signs adorning the roofs of the vehicles.

  • New tollgates open in Dubai

    Dubai's Salik tollgates at Maktoum Bridge and Al Safa become operational today, Tuesday, as the emirate's transport authority implements phase two of the toll scheme. However, there will be no charge for crossing the Maktoum Bridge when the Floating Bridge is closed between 10pm and 6pm. Also, only one charge will be made when a vehicle passes through both the Al Barsha and Al Safa gates within an hour.

  • Noor Financial Investment to bid for Lebanese mobile network

    Noor Financial Investment, a Kuwaiti industrial conglomerate, has announced that it plans to bid for one of the two state-owned Lebanese mobile phone operators that are expected to be sold off before November 2009.

  • Oasis Beach Hotel closes in Dubai

    The Oasis Beach Hotel in Dubai officially closed its doors on 29 August. The hotel, which was in operation for 10 years, was the only 4-star beach hotel in the emirate. A new hotel project is expected to be developed on the site.

  • Oil price drops below $110 as storm recedes

    The oil price remained below $110 a barrel on 4 September, after tropical storm Gustav in the Gulf of Mexico turned out to be less destructive than initially expected.

  • Oil prices near $100 after Opec production cut

    Oil prices hovered just above the $100 a barrel mark on 11 September as the market digested the surprise production cut from Opec earlier in the week against a backdrop of a stronger dollar and weakening demand.

  • Oil prices rebound as banks boost liquidity

    Oil prices rebounded above the $100 mark on 18 September as an emergency $180bn injection of dollar liquidity by a number of central banks propped up ailing stock markets and oil prices in the wake of panic in the world credit markets.

  • Oil prices rise amid uncertainty over US rescue package

    Oil prices posted their biggest one-day gain in history this week as traders scrambled to cover short positions in the market while uncertainty remained over a rescue package for the troubled US finance industry.

  • Oman awards contract extension to CGG Veritas

    Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) has awarded a contract extension to the French firm CGG Veritas for a high-density onshore project.

  • Oman inflation eases

    Oman’s inflation has moderated slightly to 13.35 per cent in July, from 13.73 in the previous month, according to the National Economy Ministry.

  • OMAN TENDER: Accommodation blocks

    Construction of three five-storey accommodation blocks. Closing date: 25 October 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Airport airfield and infrastructure works

    Carrying out airfield and infrastructure works at an international airport. Closing date: 22 September 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Airport runway and taxiway ground improvement

    Carrying out ground improvement works for an airport runway and taxiways. Closing date: 29 September 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Dredged fill enabling works

    Carrying out enabling works for a dredged fill area. Closing date: 29 September 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Drilling chemicals

    Supply of drilling chemicals. Closing date: 18 October 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Grid and transmission system

    Construction of a grid station and associated transmission system. Closing date: 27 October 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Overhead power lines and underground cables

    Construction of 33kV overhead power lines and underground cables. Closing date: 17 November 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Pavilion construction

    Construction of a pavilion. Closing date: 6 October 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Power grid station and transmission system

    Construction of a power grid station and transmission system. Closing date: 20 October 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Power line construction

    Construction of a 33kV power line. Closing date: 17 November 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Power line extension

    Extension of a 33kV power line. Closing date: 17 November 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Power line underground works

    Burying underground certain parts of existing 33kV and 11kV overhead power lines. Closing date: 17 November 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Power station operation and maintenance

    Operation and maintenance of power stations. Closing date: 29 September 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Reverse osmosis plant O&M

    Supply of potable water and operation and maintenance of reverse osmosis plants. Closing date: 18 October 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Road construction (dual carriageway)

    Construction of a primary and secondary dual carriageway. Closing date: 20 October 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Road construction consultancy

    Provision of consultancy services for the design and supervision of the construction of an expressway. Closing date: 3 November 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Sewage treatment plant

    Design, procurement, supply and installation of a sewage treatment plant. Closing date: 27 October 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Sewerage network and treatment facilities (Butuwainah)

    Provision of sewerage network and treatment facilities. Closing date: 27 October 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Sewerage network and treatment facilities (Kulailah)

    Provision of sewerage network and treatment facilities. Closing date: 27 October 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Sewerage network construction

    Construction of a sewerage network. Closing date: 10 November 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Sewerage network system

    Construction of a sewerage network system. Closing date: 27 October 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Substations and a distribution network

    Engineering, procurement and construction of substations and a distribution network. Closing date: 27 October 2008

  • OMAN TENDER: Water scheme

    Carrying out a water scheme. Closing date: 10 November 2008

  • Oman to award fixed-line licence in October

    Oman's telecoms regulator will announce the winner of the country's second fixed-line licence by the end of October.

  • Omani switchgear eyes UAE market

    Oman-based Al Hassan Switchgear Manufacturing Company has started building a new export-oriented factory in Buraimi, Oman Daily Observer has reported. The factory is being built to cater to demands in the UAE market. The Buraimi project will export nearly 90% of its turnover. Al Hassan is also in a joint venture agreement with Siemens for manufacturing medium voltage panels and has supplied more than 1,000 panels in Oman.

  • Online marketing conference planned

    A new conference recognizing the growing importance of online marketing in the tourism industry is to be held later this year. The inaugural Electronic Union of Travel Industry Online Marketing Conference is to be held from December 15th - 19th, 2008 at the Continental Garden Reef Resort Sharm El-Sheikh. Speakers from leading companies such as Google and Microsoft will be on hand, as well as representatives from international universities, the UN World Tourism Organization and the Canadian e-

  • Orascom Telecom profits decrease 4 per cent

    Orascom Telecom, the Egyptian telecoms giant, suffered a 4 per cent drop in net profits in the first half of 2008, according to its latest financial results.

  • Orion meet goes ahead at Atlantis

    Orion Hotel Schools announced that Atlantis, The Palm Dubai will remain as the venue for its Annual Orion Congress to be held on 11th October this year, following recent fire damage to the yet-to-open hotel. The annual event will look into innovation in the tourism and hospitality industry.

  • Paid parking in Abu Dhabi likely soon

    The emirate of Abu Dhabi is likely to implement a paid parking system soon, reported Khaleej Times. Abu Dhabi's Municipal Affairs Department has submitted its report on paid car parking system to the emirate's executive council for approval and implementation. The implementation of the system will be gradual and will be done in phases.

  • Palm Atlantis on fire

    The Atlantis hotel on the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai has caught fire, just weeks before it is due to open. Fire fighters are on scene battling the blaze at the hotel, which was in its soft launch phase. The blaze, which can be seen from Dubai's mainland, is in the reception area. Hotel bosses have not yet said if the fire will push back the 1,539-room Atlantis' scheduled launch date of 24 September.

  • Panasonic releases MPEG-4 for in-flight

    Panasonic Avionics Corporation, a provider of in-flight entertainment and communications systems, together with Emirates Airline and Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures, is introducing DVD quality MPEG-4 digital audio and video media in the Panasonic eX2 in-flight entertainment system. Until now in-flight entertainment systems have used either the higher compression, lower quality MPEG-1 or the low compression, DVD-quality MPEG-2 standards forcing airlines to chose between larger libraries of

  • Planet Group to build 3 hotels

    Planet Group, a Dubai-based tourism and ground handling company, is investing Dhs1.7bn ($463m) in two hotels in Abu Dhabi and one in Beirut, reported Gulf News. The Abu Dhabi properties will be a 420-unit serviced apartment complex and a 400-key five-star Planet Hotel in Danet Abu Dhabi. The company is also developing a 25,000 square metre beach resort on the hills near Beirut.

  • Premier Inn eyes Northern Emirates

    Premier Inn said in a statement it has secured sites in Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain to develop the brand in the region's budget hotel sector. The company has four sites already secured in Dubai at Dubai Investments Park (now open), Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai International Airport and Dubai Al Jadaf. It has also one site in Abu Dhabi's Capital Centre. The company plans to operate 6000+ rooms across the GCC by 2012.

  • Premier Inn to expand in UAE

    The UK's Premier Inn has announced that it has secured sites in Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Qawain in the UAE to develop budget hotels. These properties added to the four sites already secured thus far in Dubai at Dubai Investments Park (Now Open), Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai International Airport and Dubai Al Jadaf and in Abu Dhabi, at Capital Centre. Premier Inn aims to operate 6000+ rooms across the GCC by 2012.

  • Prestige Jet expands fleet to meet growing demand

    Prestige Jet has expanded into the region’s growing executive aviation sector by purchasing three new aircraft. This increases its fleet to 11 planes.

  • Production Services Network to bid for Ras Laffan gas deal

    Aberdeen-based Production Services Network (PSN) has confirmed it expects to bid for lucrative integrated service contracts on the UK/Dutch Shell Group’s $16bn-plus Pearl gas-to-liquids (GTL) facility at Ras Laffan.

  • Prysmian to install Doha’s first submarine power cable

    Italy’s Prysmian Cables & Systems has been awarded a $195m contract to install Doha’s first ever submarine power cable.

  • Punj Lloyd wins Libyan oil rig contract

    India’s Punj Lloyd has won a $42m contract from Libya’s Waha Oil Company consortium for the provision of two onshore rigs in the Sirte basin.

  • Punj Lloyd wins Qatar gas pipeline work

    India’s Punj Lloyd has won an $800m contract from Qatar Petroleum to build the gas pipeline between Ras Laffan and Mesaieed.

  • Qatar launches Ras Laffan plot tender

    Qatar Petroleum (QP) has launched a tender for an engineering, procurement, installation and construction (EPIC) contract covering the development of a new plot at Ras Laffan Industrial City.

  • Qatar seals $199m cable deal

    Prysmian has been awarded a strategic contract worth $199m (EUR140m) by Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation for the development of submarine cable turnkey project, serving Doha. The installation begins on 2009 and is due at the end of 2010.The company is also involved in the construction of the submarine power connection between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain with the Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority.

  • QATAR TENDER: Degassing station shutdown maintenance

    Provision of shutdown maintenance services at a degassing station. Closing date: 12 October 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Distribution substation equipment maintenance

    Maintenance of distribution substation equipment. Closing date: 21 September 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Electrical and telecommunications utilities

    Provision of engineering, procurement, installation and commissioning (EPIC) services for electrical and telecommunications utilities. Closing date: 2 November 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Feeder pillars

    Supply of feeder pillars. Closing date: 19 October 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Gas supplies

    Supply of sweet lean gas. Closing date: 2 November 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Integrated control system

    Supply of an integrated control system. Closing date: 26 October 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Pipeline network civil works

    Carrying out pipeline network civil works. Closing date: 7 October 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Power transmission system expansion consultancy

    Provision of engineering consultancy services for the expansion of the power transmission system. Closing date: 26 October 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Production station shutdown accommodation barge

    Provision of an accommodation barge for the shutdown of a production station. Closing date: 26 October 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Road development

    Development of roads. Closing date: 11 November 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Road improvement works

    Carrying out road improvement works. Closing date: 16 September 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Road reconstruction and maintenance (1)

    Reconstruction, rehabilitation and maintenance of roads. Closing date: 7 October 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Road reconstruction and maintenance (2)

    Reconstruction, rehabilitation and maintenance of roads. Closing date: 7 October 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Road reconstruction and maintenance (3)

    Reconstruction, rehabilitation and maintenance of roads. Closing date: 7 October 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Road reconstruction and maintenance (4)

    Reconstruction, rehabilitation and maintenance of roads. Closing date: 7 October 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Site development

    Carrying out site development works. Closing date: 2 November 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Site development works

    Carrying out site development works. Closing date: 2 November 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Spading, despading and rigging support services

    Provision of spading, despading and rigging support services at offshore locations. Closing date: 26 October 2008

  • QATAR TENDER: Wet sludge removal works

    Removal of wet sludge from a sewage treatment works. Closing date: 14 October 2008

  • Qatar unlikely to take Biman

    A Qatar Airways official has made no comment when the airlines' name came up as one of the candidates to take over troubled Bangladeshi national carrier Biman Bangladesh Airlines, The Peninsula has reported. Qatar Airways CEO, Akbar Al Baker had said earlier this year that the airline will invest overseas but not before it finishes its local investments.

  • Qatargas gets 'Mozah' LNG carrier

    Qatargas has announced it has received the world's largest Q-Max LNG carriers delivered to Qatargas Operating Company Limited and Nakilat. 'Mozah' will be used to ship LNG produced by Qatar Liquefied Gas Company Limited (II), known as Qatargas 2, to customers in Europe.

  • Qatari and French leaders attend peace summit in Damascus

    The Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani and French President Nicolas Sarkozy have attended peace talks in Damascus, as part of efforts to find a settlement between Syria and Israel.

  • Qatari Diar launches subsidiary to develop Lusail

    Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company has launched a separate company to develop its flagship Lusail project.

  • Qatari inflation rises to 16.6 per cent

    Inflation in Qatar rose to 16.6 per cent in the second quarter of the year, according to the latest figures from the Qatar Statistics Authority (QSA). This was an increase from the first-quarter figure of 14.8 per cent.

  • Qatari investor buys stake in Iceland's biggest bank

    Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa al-Thani, a member of the Qatari royal family, has purchased a 5.01 per cent stake in Kaupthing, Iceland’s biggest bank, making him the bank’s third largest shareholder.

  • Qtel net profits climb 44 per cent

    Qtel, the Qatari telecoms operator, has reported a 44 per cent increase in net profits for the first half of 2008 compared with the same period in 2007.

  • Radisson Dubai gets new GM

    The Rezidor Hotel Group has appointed Pasquale Baiguera as new General Manager for the Radisson SAS Dubai Media City. Italian national Baiguera - who has 24 years of hospitality experience - joins the 246 room Dubai property from the Radisson SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen, Denmark, where he served as General Manager for over 18 months.

  • RAK tourism up by 28%

    Tourist arrivals in Ras Al Khaimah has gone up 28% in 2007, the most significant increase in the last few years, Gulf News has reported. According to the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism, the official number of tourists visiting the emirate per annum is estimated at 215,000, excluding day visitors. There are about 1,500 hotel rooms currently, this number is expected to increase to about 3,700 in the next four years.

  • Ransom demand for tourists abducted in Egypt

    Germany's government has taken the lead trying to negotiate the release of a group of 11 European tourists and eight Egyptians abducted in the southern Egyptian desert and taken to neighboring Sudan, authorities said Tuesday. The tourists, including five Germans, five Italians and one Romanian, were safe but being held against an undisclosed ransom demand, tourism minister Mohamed Zoheir Garana told Egyptian TV. Confusion earlier surrounded the fate of the tourists, after Egypt's foreign mini

  • Reed acquires Dubai Airport Show

    Reed Exhibitions, the world's largest events organizer, has announced that it has acquired the Airport Show in Dubai from Streamline Marketing Group. The show is the region's leading procurement event for the aviation and airports sector, according to a press statement. The 2008 edition of the show drew over 515 exhibitors occupying more than 18,300 sqm of exhibition space. The show's next edition will be held in May 2009.

  • Region's fastest computer to be built in Saudi

    IBM has signed a joint-research agreement with Saudi Arabia to build the fastest computer in the Middle East. King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, also known as Kaust, and IBM said they aim to build and conduct research on the most complex, high-performance computing system in the region. The centre will initially be located at IBM's T.J. Watson Research Laboratory in Yorktown Heights, NY.

  • Region's markets diverge as financial turmoil continues

    The region's financial markets diverged this week, as investors returned to some markets while continuing to punish the two that have already suffered the worst from the global downturn: the Cairo & Alexandria Stock Exchanges (Case) and Saudi Arabia's Tadawul.

  • Regulator fines Shuaa Capital $1m for market abuse

    Shuaa Capital, the UAE bank, has been fined almost $1m for market abuse in one of the UAE's largest investigations into malpractice in financial markets.

  • Request for proposals due on Bahrain sewage plant

    The government of Bahrain is due to approve a shortlist of developers interested in building Bahrain’s $150m Muharraq sewage plant in early October. The developers are then expected to be asked to submit requests for proposals by mid-October.

  • Riyadh awards Jubail 2 deal to Al-Harbi

    The Saudi-based Al-Harbi Trading & Contracting has been awarded a SR250m ($68m) construction contract at Jubail.

  • Riyadh issues tender for Hail university building

    A tender has been issued for a new faculty building at University of Hail in Saudi Arabia.

  • Riyadh to issue tenders for Mecca-Medina high-speed rail link

    Saudi Railways Organisation (SRO) is to issue tenders for the first construction contract on the $6bn Haramain high-speed rail link between Mecca and Medina on 17 September.

  • RJ to resume service to Brussels

    Royal Jordanian announced that it will resume flights between Amman and the Belgian capital, Brussels, starting April 1, 2009. RJ President/CEO Samer Majali said the scheduled direct service to Brussels has been resumed for commercial reasons, following studies of the Belgian market, which indicated that it is feasible to reconnect Jordan and Belgium. The open skies policy signed by the two countries in June grants Jordan the 3rd and 4th freedom rights to operate between Amman and Brussels di

  • RMJM to design Libyan college campuses

    UK-based RMJM has been selected by the Organisation for the Development of Administrative Centres (Odac) to design two new college campuses in Libya.

  • Rotana opens Arjaan Dubai Media City

    Rotana has announced the opening of Arjaan Dubai Media City on the 15th of September 2008, which is the first property under its newly launched brand 'Arjaan Hotel Apartments by Rotana'. The 30 story Arjaan complex located in the heart of Dubai Media City on Sufouh road offers 167 furnished apartments with one, two or three bedrooms.

  • Royal Bank of Scotland rebrands ABN Amro in the UAE

    Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) has announced the rebranding of all the ABN Amro branches in the UAE, following the $115bn acquisition of the Dutch banking group by a consortium led by RBS in October 2007.

  • Royal Jordanian considers Boeing compensation deal

    Royal Jordanian has confirmed it is in talks with the US' Boeing over a range of potential compensation packages to cover delays in the deliveries of new 787 Dreamliner aircraft.

  • RTA goes ahead on Meydan roads

    Dubai's Road and Transport Authority has awarded the contract for the crossings and roads leading to Meydan project in Nad El-Sheba in Dubai. The project spans Muscat Road, Dubai-Al Ain Road, Ras Al Khor Road and extension of Al Manama Road valued at more than Dhs1bn.

  • Rusal to build smelter in Libya

    The world's top aluminium firm United Company Rusal has signed an agreement with Libya to build an aluminium smelter in Libya with an annual capacity of 600,000 tonnes, reported AP. The parties also have agreed to build a 1,500 megawatt gas power station to supply energy to the smelter. The natural gas for the complex will be supplied by the National Oil Company of Libya under a contract intended to last at least 30 years. UC Rusal was formed in March 2007 by a merger between Russian producer

  • S. Korean firms wins $330m order from UAE

    South Korea's Hanjin Heavy Industries has won a $330m order to build two VLCCs (very large crude carriers) for Emarat Maritime LLC in the UAE. The company said the ships were expected to be delivered from June 2011, reported Reuters.

  • Saba Properties awards Jumeirah Lake Towers work to Arabtec

    Local developer Saba Properties JLT has awarded the local Arabtec Construction a AED664m ($180m) contract to build its Saba 4 tower at Jumeirah Lake Towers.

  • Sabb completes Sipchem loan syndication

    Syndication of a $741m loan for the construction of an acetyls project at Jubail, by Saudi International Petrochemical Company (Sipchem) has been completed, with only three banks joining the funding group.

  • Sabena to maintain Wataniya's A320

    Wataniya Airways has signed a maintenance and repair contract with Sabena Technics to perform global maintenance services across the Wataniya Airways' fleet of A320 aircraft. Sabena will establish a maintenance base in Kuwait to facilitate the airline once it commences operations in January 2009.

  • Salwan opens its JBR venture

    Dubai Properties Group subsidiary, Salwan LLC has ventured into a 204-roomed hotel apartment building, the 'Salwan Hotel Apartments' at the Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). The property is located in Shams 1 Tower and will commence operations during the Eid Al Fitr holidays.

  • Sama may cut all domestic routes

    Heavy losses caused by high fuel prices may force Saudi Arabia-based low-cost carrier Sama to shut down all of its domestic flights, Andrew Cowen, the carrier's CEO told Arab News. Cowen said Sama must have access to the subsidized price of airline fuel that Saudi Arabian Airlines receive in order to compete on a level playing field. The carrier has already eliminated its route that served Madinah from Dammam and Riyadh, and reduced the number of flights between Dammam and Riyadh by half.

  • Sarkozy begins visit to Syria

    The French President Nicolas Sarkozy arrived in Syria on 3 September in a bid to strengthen ties between the two countries.

  • Sasol claims Qatar gas project on schedule despite delays

    South Africa's Sasol says the “majority of teething problems” have been resolved at its Oryx gas-to-liquids (GTL) venture in Qatar, although production remains at just two-thirds of its 34,000-barrel-a-day (b/d) capacity.

  • Saudi airline reduces flights to curb losses

    Sama has stopped all flights to Medina and halved its service between Riyadh and Dammam to curb losses arising from high fuel costs and the fare cap imposed on domestic routes.

  • Saudi Arabia joins World Bank's list of 20 most open economies

    Saudi Arabia joined the World Bank's list of the 20 most open economies in the world for businesses during 2007.

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Girls’ schools construction

    Construction of girls’ schools. Closing date: 2 November 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Hospital maintenance

    Maintenance and cleaning of a 200-bed hospital. Closing date: 8 October 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Power generating unit maintenance

    Provision of on-site maintenance services for diesel engine power generating units. Closing date: 11 October 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Power plant service centre construction

    Construction of a service centre at a power plant. Closing date: 27 September 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Residential land development

    Development of land for residential purposes. Closing date: 28 October 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Road and pavement maintenance

    Maintenance of roads, pavements and signboards. Closing date: 13 October 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Road asphalting

    Asphalting of roads. Closing date: 15 October 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Road maintenance

    Maintenance of roads. Closing date: 13 October 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: School construction

    Construction of a school. Closing date: 20 October 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Steel pipes

    Supply of stainless steel pipes. Closing date: 21 October 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Substation construction

    Engineering, procurement and construction of a substation. Closing date: 23 November 2008

  • SAUDI ARABIA TENDER: Water networks

    Construction of water networks. Closing date: 2 November 2008

  • Saudi Arabian Airlines sells stake in cargo division

    Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) has confirmed the sale of a 30 per cent stake in its cargo business.

  • Saudi boosts anti-piracy efforts

    Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Culture and Information said it has implemented a number of major anti-piracy measures in a move intended to establish the Kingdom as a regional leader in anti-piracy efforts. The ministry will provide information on copyright anti-piracy cases on a newly-launched website, believed to be the first of its kind in the region. Eric Smith, President, International Intellectual Property Alliance, said the website, along with reforms to the Violations Review Committee wit

  • Saudi bourse drops in value

    Saudi Arabia's Tasi index lost 4.4 per cent in value over the week to finish at 8,505 points, marking the end of a two-week period of rises.

  • Saudi contractor begins mobilisation works on Najran airport

    The Saudi contractor Al-Mabani General Contractors has begun mobilisation works on the Najran airport project.

  • Saudi Electricity Company awards substations deal to Iscosa

    The local Industrial Services Company Saudi Arabia (Iscosa) has won a contract to reinforce substations in the kingdom.

  • Saudi extends deadline for wastewater consultancy bids

    Saudi Arabia’s National Water Company (NWC) has extended the deadline for bids for the consultancy contract on the newest phase of the country’s water and wastewater network privatisation programme.

  • Saudi firm to launch tower project on Dubai Waterfront

    Saudi-based developer The Land Development & Investment Company is to launch a new tower project in the UAE.

  • Saudi inflation hits 11 per cent

    Inflation in Saudi Arabia has risen to 11.1 per cent in July, the highest level for more than 30 years, driven by food and housing costs.

  • Saudi issues 3.24m Umrah visas

    Statistics from the Central Haj Committee in Makkah showed that 3.24 million Umrah visas have been issued by Saudi embassies across the world this year, Arab News has reported. The office has recorded until 5th Sept, 2,622,408 foreign pilgrims have arrived in the kingdom, of which 2,243,090 pilgrims had left.

  • Saudi ranked as best business location in the region

    Saudi Arabia has been ranked the best place to do business in the Middle East, according to a World Bank report.

  • Sawiris to boost stake in Orascom Telecom

    The Sawiris family is to buy£E800m ($146m) of shares in Orascom Telecom, the Egyptian telecoms operator that it controls.

  • Schon Properties awards contract for UAE business park

    The UAE's Schon Properties has awarded the local United Engineering Construction (Unec) a AED400m ($109m) construction contract in Schon Business Park.

  • Schon Properties awards Dubai Lagoon work to NSCC

    Local developer Schon Properties has awarded the local NSCC an enabling works package at the Dubai Lagoon development.

  • Shangri-La Qaryat opens apartments

    Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi has opened a new serviced residence adding 161 serviced apartments to the Qaryat Al Beri room inventory. Available from studio to four bedroom units, the apartments are equipped with a fully fitted kitchen, LCD televisions, DVD player, and luxurious furniture and will be available for both short term and long term bookings.

  • Sharjah port sees higher volumes

    Gulftainer's Khorfakkan Container Terminal in the UAE emirate of Sharjah welcomed the arrival of the biggest container ship ever to berth at the port, the 9700 teu, 350-metre long 'CMA-CGM ORFEO'. Volumes, which already have been much higher in the first half of the year as a result of lines increasingly choosing to route cargo through the KCT gateway to the UAE, have been further boosted as congestion and slow working conditions have affected other ports in the region.

  • Shell signs Basra gas deal with Iraq

    The UK/Dutch Shell Group has signed a heads-of-agreement deal with Iraq's South Gas Company for the development of associated gas in Basra, following cabinet approval from Iraq’s Council of Ministers on 7 September.

  • Sheraton is tops for business travelers

    Sheraton is the leading choice of business travelers in the Middle East, according to a survey of 933 business travelers by Business Development Research Consultants Ltd. Sheraton finished ahead of Hilton (last year's leader), and Hyatt, which is the most improved hotel brand. The survey also reported that the use of the internet to review availability and make reservations at hotels in the Gulf is well behind all other world regions. By a large margin Yahoo! Travel remains the number one tra

  • Sheraton launches new website

    Sheraton Hotels & Resorts has launched a new website, sheratonresorts.com, dedicated exclusively to its global collection of premier resorts around the world. Travelers can explore 62 unique local packages and search the Sheraton brand's collection according to specific interests. The launch of the new website coincides with Sheraton Hotels' global initiative to enhance and differentiate the guest experience at each of its 406 hotels across 71 countries, according to a press statement.

  • Shibh al-Jazira wins Jeddah ringroad contract

    The Saudi-based Shibh al-Jazira Contracting Company has secured a construction package for the second ringroad in Jeddah.

  • Siemens bids low for substation work in Kuwait

    Germany’s Siemens is the lower bidder for a contract for the operation and maintenance of major substations across Kuwait.

  • Siemens wins King Abdullah Economic City work

    The German-based Siemens has been awarded a SR553m ($148m) contract for work at King Abdullah Economic City in Saudi Arabia.

  • Sika plans Rabigh chemical plant

    Sika Saudi Arabia has announced its plans for a construction chemical plant having an initial capacity of 50,000 tonnes in Rabigh, initially valued at more than SR50m, Khaleej Times has reported. The plant is expected to produce admixtures for concrete, all forms of cementatious products — grouts and epoxy grouts — adhesives, flooring products, waterproofing products, sealing and bonding.

  • Sikorsky Aerospace wins Saudi deal

    Sikorsky Aerospace Services has won a 5-year contract to provide Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior with an Operations and Maintenance Support Program for the S-92, S-76, and S-434 helicopters purchased by the MOI in 2007. Sikorsky Aerospace is the worldwide aftermarket division of Sikorsky Aircraft Corp., a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp.

  • Singapore Airlines offers travel deal

    Malaysia and Singapore have teamed up with Singapore Airlines to offer an exclusive travel deal for Middle East travellers to enjoy both destinations in one package. Valid only until November this year, the five-day, four-night 'twin city' package costs Dhs2,490 ($678)and covers airfare and hotel accommodations in Singapore and Malaysia. Malaysia and Singapore expect tourist traffic from the Middle East to rise 28% this year, from close to 400,000 visitors in 2007 to 510,000 in 2008, reported

  • Singapore Airlines to launch Riyadh service

    Singapore Airlines said Tuesday it will begin service to the Saudi Arabian capital Riyadh in December. SIA said the flights, via Dubai, will begin December 14 using the Boeing 777-200 aircraft. The carrier will operate four flights a week on the route.

  • Sinopec pays $2bn for Syrian heavy oil assets

    Chinese oil firm Sinopec has paid $2bn to buy Tanganyika Oil Company, which holds the rights to develop more than 180 million barrels of proven heavy oil reserves in Syria.

  • Sobha to debut hotels brand in Dubai

    India and Dubai real estate company Sobha Group has announced it has acquired a plot on Dubai's main artery Sheikh Zayed Road for the development of its first hotel in Dubai. The group, which announced plans to launch Sobha Hotels last May, plans to develop over 10 five-star properties in the next three years, with two hotels earmarked for Dubai, six for India, and one each in Oman and Zanzibar. Sobha Group will own, develop and operate all Sobha Hotels.

  • Sorouh and Tameer award Reem island deal to Orascom Construction

    Egypt’s Orascom Construction Industries has been awarded a AED551m ($150m) construction contract for work on Abu Dhabi’s Reem island.

  • Sovereign Hospitality to develop hotels in Ethiopia

    Sovereign Hospitality Holdings, a tourism and real estate investment company owned by the Kuwait-based Mohammed Abdulmohsin Al-Kharafi & Sons Company, is to establish two hotels in Ethiopia.

  • Special air packages for Ramadan

    Airlines and travel companies are offering special airfares and packages to UAE residents during Ramadan and the upcoming Eid holidays, reported Gulf News. Dnata Holidays, an Emirates Group company, has special packages for travellers to 12 destinations across Europe, Asia and the Middle East on Eid Al Fitr. Malaysia Airlines is offering many special packages on flights from Dubai to Beirut and East Asian destinations. Germany's Lufthansa is also offering discounts across its network, coverin

  • Steel prices in UAE plunge

    Steel prices in the UAE, which had surged by at least 90% in the first half of this year, have plunged 35-40% in the past few months on surplus stocks and panic selling by traders, reported Khaleej Times. Trade sources said the price of Turkish and Qatar steel have dropped from Dhs6,000 per tonne to Dhs3500.

  • SteelFab trade fair set for January

    SteelFab trade fair, the Middle East's largest trade show for the metal working, metal manufacturing and steel fabrication industry, will feature a bigger number of exhibitors and brands, an increase in exhibition space occupied and several other first-time attractions, organizers said. The show, which is in its fifth edition, will be hosted by Expo Centre Sharjah from January 19 to 22, 2009.

  • SUDAN TENDER: Enhancement of the private sector in railways consultancy services

    Provision of consultancy services comprising a study on options for enhancing private sector participation in railway operations. Closing date: 7 October 2008

  • SUDAN TENDER: Livestock production improvement consultancy

    Provision of consultancy services for a project to improve livestock production and marketing. Closing date: 28 September 2008

  • Sulzer signs 10-year deal with Saudi Aramco

    Sulzer AG, the world's second-largest maker of pumps, has signed a deal to supply Saudi Aramco, the world's biggest state oil company, with products and services for 10 years, reported Bloomberg. Aramco already is a client of Sulzer, the Winterthur, Switzerland-based company said in a statement on its Web site. The terms of the contract weren't disclosed.

  • Sun chairman to speak at Gitex

    Some of the world's most influential IT experts will be present at Gitex Technology Week as part of the Global Conference taking place at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, organizers said. The chairman and co-founder of Sun Microsystems, Scott McNealy, will open this year's conference in a keynote address. He will be followed by Pim Dale, Vice President and General Manager, Dell Emerging Markets, Europe, Middle East and Africa.

  • Survey reveals low standards of corporate governance in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia

    Companies in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have the lowest standards of corporate governance in the GCC, according to a survey of 581 Gulf companies by UAE bank The National Investor and Hawkamah, a corporate governance thinktank founded by the Dubai International Financial Centre.

  • Swicorp buys stake in Jordan Aviation

    Swicorp has purchased a strategic stake in the aircraft leasing business Jordan Aviation for an undisclosed sum.

  • Swicorp buys stake in Jordan Aviation

    Saudi-based investment firm Swicorp has purchased a strategic stake in Jordan Aviation (JATE), an aviation-leasing company, for an undisclosed sum. The purchase was made through Intaj Capital, Swicorp's $250m private equity vehicle. JATE is the first privately owned airline awarded a Jordanian Air Operating Certificate and is one of the youngest airlines to have completed the IATA Operational Safety Audit in 2006, according to a press release.

  • Syria restores diplomatic ties with Iraq

    Syria has become the latest country to restore diplomatic ties with Iraq, appointing its first ambassador to Baghdad since 1980.

  • Syria signs oil refinery deal

    Syria’s Petroleum and Mineral Resources Ministry has signed a contract for a 140,000-barrel-a-day (b/d) refinery with Iran, Venezuela and Malaysia in Furoqlos, near the northern city of Homs.

  • Syrian car blast kills 17

    A car bomb exploded in the Syrian capital Damascus on 27 October, killing 17 and injuring dozens more.

  • System Construct starts work on Sama Dubai sales centre

    The local System Construct has started work on a sales centre for local developer Sama Dubai opposite the Madinat Jumeirah.

  • Tabung Haji to build hotel in Mecca

    The Malaysian-based Tabung Haji is to construct a 30-floor hotel in Mecca.

  • Tadawul registers biggest falls for eight months

    The Saudi stock market (Tadawul) has continued to fall for the fifth trading session in a row, following a drop of 459.93 points, or 5.41 per cent, on 6 September, the biggest one day loss since 22 January.

  • Takreer awards Ruwais refinery deal to UOP

    Abu Dhabi Oil Refining Company (Takreer) has awarded a technology and engineering services contract to UOP of the US for the expansion of Ruwais refinery.

  • Tehran bourse resilient amid market turmoil

    For most of the Gulf, the aftermath of Lehman Brothers' decision to file for bankruptcy protection heaped further problems on equity markets, which have already experienced a miserable summer. The Tehran Stock Exchange, however, had a good week climbing 0.8 per cent to finish at 47,107 points. Iranian government plans to list further state-owned enterprises have consistently helped the benchmark Tedpix index climb since the beginning of the current Iranian year in March.

  • Tehran to spend $22bn to boost refining capacity

    Iran is to invest $22bn as part of plans to construct seven refineries and add more than 1.5 million barrels-a-day (b/d) to its energy capacity.

  • Temporary halt on Emirates A380

    Emirates has temporarily withdrawn the A380 into service bound to New York on Friday due to engineering work, Gulf News has reported. The plane has remained in Dubai. Emirates has replaced the A380 with a wide-body Boeing 777-300ER on the route.

  • Tender KUWAIT TENDER Sewerage Treatments Test 3

    Sewerage Treatments 2

  • Tenders for Al-Khobar seafront development due by December

    Tenders for a new mixed-use residential project in Al-Khobar on Saudi Arabia’s east coast are expected to be issued in three months' time.

  • Tethys Oil suspends Oman well testing

    Sweden’s Tethys Oil has suspended testing on its Jebel Aswad 2 well in Oman until a rig can be secured to seal off water from the well.

  • The downside of Dubai's property boom

    It is often said that you should sell when your taxi-driver or hairdresser tells you to buy. In stocks and shares, there is no clearer sign that the market is about to bust than non-professional investors flooding into equities.

  • The Gulf learns from Lehman mistakes

    In the wake of the Lehman Brothers' collapse - and the personal loss of $600m to leader Dick Fuld - world finance is likely to look for more and more help from the Gulf. They may be disappointed.

  • Third Abu Dhabi passenger terminal contract expected

    Abu Dhabi Airports Company (Adac) is expected to award the build-operate-transfer contract for the third passenger terminal on the $6.8bn redevelopment of Abu Dhabi International Airport by the end of the year.

  • Tiger Properties launches tower project on Dubai Waterfront

    The UAE-based real estate developer Tiger Properties is to launch two new towers on the Dubai Waterfront development.

  • Total plans Syrian exploration talks

    French oil major Total is looking to sign fresh exploration deals in Syria this week for the Deir El Zour permit.

  • Total signs Syrian energy deals

    France’s Total has signed a series of oil and gas agreements in Syria, including plans for a new strategic partnership with two state-run energy companies, after broader economic talks between the two countries this week.

  • Tourists kidnapped in Egypt

    A group of 15 foreign tourists, including five Italians, were kidnapped Monday in southern Egypt, according to Egyptian officials and the Italian Foreign Ministry. Details remain unclear and a breakdown of the tourists' nationalities wasn't available. A security official in Aswan, 425 miles south of the capital Cairo, said authorities there were trying to determine the circumstances of the abduction, reported AP.

  • Tripoli to invest in Nairobi bank

    Tripoli will invest Eur100m ($148m) in a new bank to be established in Kenya.

  • Tristar wins Arabian Canal contract

    Abu Dhabi-based Tristar Transport & Contracting has been awarded the estimated AED8bn ($2.1bn) first phase earthworks contract on the AED40bn Arabian Canal project.

  • Tunisia awards oil deal to Production Services Network

    Tunisia has awarded a project management contract on the country’s second largest oil field to the UK’s Production Services Network (PSN), formerly a division of the US' KBR.

  • TUNISIA TENDER: Language laboratories

    Provision of 500 language laboratories for colleges and schools. Closing date: 10 November 2008

  • Tunisian bourse most attractive small equity market in Gulf

    Tunisia's stock exchange is the most attractive small equity market in the Middle East and North Africa, according to US investment bank Citigroup.

  • Turkish Airlines to start Baghdad flights

    Turk Hava Yollari AO, the carrier known as Turkish Airlines, will start flying to the Iraqi capital Baghdad next month, reported Bloomberg. The Istanbul-based carrier will resume flying to Baghdad three times a week starting on Oct. 26, according to an e-mailed statement from the airline today. Istanbul will become a hub connecting Baghdad to the rest of the world.

  • Two added to list of prequalifiers for Moroccan power plant

    Moroccan state-owned utility Office National de l’Electricite (One) has prequalified two more companies for the Safi coal-fired power plant project.

  • Two hotels to rise in Al Gharbia

    The Western Region Development Council announced two hotels will be built in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi, now known as Al Gharbia. The projects will be located in Madinat Zayed, Al Gharbia. The first hotel is being developed by a local investor and will have 84 double rooms within 6 wings spread across 50,000 sqm while the second hotel will be situated in the south of Madinat Zayed and will be owned by Al Dhafra Co-op Society.

  • UAE aims to boost cultural tourism

    UAE Minister of Foreign Trade H.E. Shaikha Lubna Al Qasimi said yesterday that cultural tourism has become an integral part of the UAE's domestic hospitality service sector, reported Gulf News. The UAE welcomes around 10 million tourists annually, she said, many of whom are attracted to the country's impressive blend of cultural heritage and rapid economic development. Cultural tourists spend more than ordinary tourists, thus making this sector a major contributor to national revenue, she add

  • UAE budget hotel sector lacking

    The UAE must do more to develop its budget hotel sector or else risk losing UK tourists to cheaper destinations, according to ABTA, a UK-based travel association that represents more than 5,500 travel agencies and 900 tour operations. A sluggish UK economy, high fuel prices and fierce competition from low-cost destinations, together with the perception of the UAE as an expensive holiday destination, were costing the country revenue, reported The National.

  • UAE central bank issues sovereign wealth fund warning

    Sovereign wealth funds will avoid markets where new regulations are applied on their activities, said Sultan al-Suwaidi, Central Bank of the UAE governor, at the Japan Centre for Co-operation in the Middle East (JCCME) conference in Dubai on 28 August.

  • UAE central bank outlines details of liquidity fund

    The Central Bank of the UAE has revealed the details of a AED50bn ($13.6bn) liquidity injection designed to help ease the cost of borrowing in the interbank lending market.

  • UAE central bank says speculators have left local banking market

    The Central Bank of the UAE says that 90 per cent of the “hot money” that entered the domestic banking system to speculate on a revaluation of the dirham has now left the country.

  • UAE firm seeks to boost India's business jet infrastructure

    UAE-based ETA-Ascon Star Group is seeking to build a solid business jet infrastructure in India by redeveloping hundreds of its small airstrips for the country's growing corporate segment, reported Gulf News. The group, with an annual sales revenue of $5.69bn, entered the aviation business by setting up Star Aviation in India earlier this year. It has launched ETA Star Jet for the corporate jet market in the Gulf. India is currently developing a number of business and industrial parks and eco

  • UAE firm to provide pipe network for Palm Jebel Ali

    The UAE’s Advanced Composites has been awarded a AED58m ($16m) contract to provide the district cooling piping network to Palm Jebel Ali.

  • UAE fund fails to stabilise markets

    Lending between banks in the GCC has continued to falter despite a liquidity injection of AED50bn ($13.6bn) from the Central Bank of the UAE, with borrowing rates rising to more than 4 per cent in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.

  • UAE investors expect to make riskier investments

    High net worth individuals in the UAE expect to capitalise on the current financial market turmoil by adding more risk to their investment portfolios, according to a survey by Barclays Wealth and the Economist Intelligence Unit.

  • UAE offers $13bn to banks to alleviate liquidity crisis

    The Central Bank of the UAE said on 22 September that it would pump AED50bn ($13.6bn) into the local banking sector to help alleviate a liquidity crisis that has driven interbank rates up by 170 basis point, to 3.61 per cent.

  • UAE orders banks to report on Lehman exposure

    The Central Bank of the UAE has ordered all locally-licensed banks to report their exposure to US investment bank Lehman Brothers, which filed for bankruptcy protection on 15 September.

  • UAE spa tops Middle East rank

    A study has revealed that the UAE's spa business is the most profitable in the Middle East and North Africa region as combined annual revenues of 212 facilities in the country hit almost $268m, Gulf News has reported. The SRI International and Intelligent Spas research has shown UAE ranks first in the industry, while Tunisia comes second with 41 facilities and annual revenues of a little over $86m. Saudi Arabia is home to 96 spas, but it only ranks third with $52m.

  • UAE TENDER: Broadband network conditional access system

    Supply and installation of a conditional access system for a broadband network. Closing date: 18 September 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Multi-storey car park

    Construction of a multi-storey car park. Closing date: 6 October 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Multi-storey car park (Al-Shagara)

    Construction of a multi-storey car park. Closing date: 6 October 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Multi-storey car park (Um-Tarrafa)

    Construction of a multi-storey car park. Closing date: 6 October 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Power plant monitoring and control system

    Supply and installation of a remote monitoring and control system for power plants. Closing date: 28 September 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Power station switchgear

    Replacement of 33-kV switchgear at a power station. Closing date: 19 October 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Residential and council buildings construction

    Construction of a residential building and a council building. Closing date: 6 October 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Road construction

    Construction of internal roads. Closing date: 29 September 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Switchgear and generator equipment

    Supply and installation of additional sections to switchgears and generators. Closing date: 21 September 2008

  • UAE TENDER: Water meters and strainers

    Supply of water meters and strainers. Closing date: 27 October 2008

  • UAE to take part in Asia travel show

    The UAE will be participating at the world's largest travel trade show, ITB Asia, a three-day business-to-business trade show and convention which will bring together more 5000 travel and tourism experts from more than 50 countries. The event which will run from 22 to 24 October 2008 in Singapore is set to feature the full range of travel products, services and goods, while at the same time functioning as a knowledge platform for the industry with the concurrently held ITB Asia convention an

  • United Development Company appoints underwriters for $286m loan

    United Development Company (UDC) has appointed underwriters to raise QR1.04bn ($286m) to help finance the development of Medina Centrale precinct, a mixture of residential and leisure properties on the Pearl-Qatar island in Qatar.

  • US introspection is Gulf's new opportunity

    The election in the US will allow more power to be placed in the hands of Middle East leaders in the future, no matter which presidential candidate eventually wins.

  • US offers a lifeline to global financial markets

    The unprecedented bail out of the US banking system has prevented a depression at a massive cost to the nation’s taxpayers, and has also had a positive effect on GCC equity markets.

  • Velosi wins Aramco service contract

    UK-listed oil consultant Velosi has won a five-year general inspection services contract from Saudi Aramco and a two-year deal from Al-Khafji Joint Operations in the Divided Zone.

  • Vodafone wins fixed-line licence in Qatar

    Vodafone, the UK telecoms giant, has won Qatar's second fixed-line telecoms licence, meaning that it can now sell internet and land-line services alongside mobile phone services.

  • WiMax to roll out in Mideast

    Green Packet Networks has launched in the Middle East the first dedicated WiMax consultancy firm in the region to offer first-hand experience and expertise to WiMax players. These include business planning, technology deployment, sales and marketing strategies and roll-out management. Green Packet Networks (Bahrain) will be present at this year's Gitex.

  • Wipro launches plant in India

    Wipro Infotech, the India and Middle East IT business of Wipro, has unveiled its second manufacturing unit at Uttarakhand in north India. Spread over 5.8 acres of land at the foothills of the Himalayas, the plant will manufacture servers, storage, notebooks, desktops and allied IT electronics.

  • YEMEN TENDER: Beach improvement works (G2C3)

    Improvement of a beach as part of a port cities development programme. Closing date: 13 October 2008

  • YEMEN TENDER: Beach improvement works (G2C6)

    Improvement of a beach as part of a port cities development programme. Closing date: 13 October 2008

  • YEMEN TENDER: Water supply system

    Provision of a water supply system. Closing date: 4 November 2008

  • Zaya approaches contractors for Nurai project

    Local developer Zaya has approached contractors for its Nurai project in Abu Dhabi emirate.

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