The programme is an integral part of Abu Dhabi’s plan to increase gas production by more than 2 billion cf/d, to meet rapidly growing power-generation requirements.

The $250m lump-sum engineering, procurement and construction contract covers the installation of facilities to extract gas from the offshore Umm Shaif field.

In addition, the work covers the 1-kilometre-long flare line, and a 36km, 42-inch main gas pipeline from the platform to Das island, where the gas will be processed.

A number of companies have been invited to bid for the final package of work including the US’ J Ray McDermott, Paris-based Technip, Italy’s Saipem and the local National Petroleum Construction Company.

The scheme is the final element of the integrated gas development programme. Abu Dhabi Gas Industries Company (Gasco) and Abu Dhabi Gas Liquefaction Company (Adgas) are in the process of prequalifying contractors for the five main onshore packages and the three smaller civil works contracts.

More than 15 companies are competing for the deals, which cover gas processing and offsites and utilities at Habshan, a fourth natural gas liquids train and liquefied petroleum gas storage tanks at Ruwais, and a gas dehydration and compression facility at Das island (MEED 19:3:08).