Al-Arrab's price came in just below the offers from Al-Mansouriya Trading & Contracting at SR 1,830 million ($488 million), Haif Maba Contracting at SR 1,840 million ($491 million) and Ahmed Herafi at SR 1,890 million ($504 million).

The only other bidder was Al-Khodary & Sons Company. The project includes six sub-packages covering clinics in various areas of the kingdom, leaving the ministry with the option to award more than one contract.

The ministry has already awarded three contracts on the clinic programme with Al-Arrab, Al-Mansoury Contracting and Saudi Oger, both local, all carrying out work.

The ministry has also kicked off the tendering process for a whole host of hospitals ranging from 50-300 rooms. In its 2006 budget, the kingdom set aside about SR 4,300 million ($1,100 million) for new projects including 24 hospitals, which will add 3,800 beds throughout the kingdom.