Abu Dhabi Oil Refining Company (Takreer) has tendered a contract for the expansion of its aviation fuel depot at Abu Dhabi International airport, according to industry sources.

The state-owned company plans to increase the fuel tank farm’s capacity to 80 million litres and install new fuel hydrant pumps and automation, control and leak detection systems.

Technical engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) proposals on the project are expected to be submitted at the end of March, with the contract likely to be awarded in the second or third quarter.

The project is expected to meet the fuel demands for Abu Dhabi airport for 20 years after its completion. It also includes the construction of new office, training and control buildings, revamped electrical, instrumentation and control systems and refurbishment of the existing depot fire-fighting, fuel receipt and testing facilities.

Abu Dhabi Airport Company is aiming to expand its passenger capacity by October 2016 through the construction of a midfield terminal. The current infrastructure is being stretched by passenger traffic growth, which is estimated at about 20 per cent for 2012.

Takreer, the refining arm of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc), operates two refineries in Abu Dhabi and Ruwais.