Bidding is heating up on a number of different packages for the construction of the King Khalid University (KKU) new Abha campus, in the south of the kingdom, with local contractors preparing to submit bids by the end of May (MEED 7:4:06).

The largest package, worth an estimated SR 800 million ($213 million), involves the construction of a utility tunnel and the installation of electromechanical networks.

The scope of works covers a 29-kilometre-long tunnel, with a height of 9 metres and a width of 4 metres, split into 28 different sections. It will be built 6 metres underground and carry wiring and utility piping. The bid closing date is 29 May.

Bids are also due on 27 May and 2 June respectively for two contracts, each worth about SR 160 million ($43 million), to build service centres at either end of the utility tunnel.

The two steel structures will contain chillers and pumping plants.

The final two packages cover the construction of a science college and the campus administration building. Bids for both contracts, estimated at SR 350 million ($93 million) each, are due by the end of May.

The local Zuhair Fayez Partnership Consultants is the consultant. The client is KKU.