Emirates Flight Catering (EKFC) is evaluating bids from companies for the contract to build the estimated AED650m ($177m) third phase of its flight catering facilities at Dubai International airport.

The work involves a significant amount of specialist mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) fittings. The local/UK Al-Naboodah Laing O’Rourke is working on the estimated AED150m second phase of the project.

The consultants working on the scheme are the local National Engineering Bureau and Germany’s I+O.

EKFC is also building a central stores building in the Al-Ruwwayah area. The local Amana Steel is the contractor. The consultant is the local Artec.

EKFC provides catering and ancillary services to airlines operating at the airport. According to its website, it provided almost 47.5 million meals in 2012 and was expected to produce more than 53 million meals in 2013. It employs more than 8,000 staff.