The bids evaluation process for the runway and air traffic control (ATC) tower package at Fujairah International airport is still underway, according to sources with knowledge of the transaction.

The client, Abu Dhabi Airports Company (Adac), received the bids in October last year.

MEED understands at least three firms submitted an offer for the contract including Abu Dhabi-based Al-Sahraa Group and a team comprising Lebanon’s Consolidated Contractors Company (CCC) and local Tristar Engineering & Construction.

The airport’s original expansion plan includes extending the existing runway by 900 metres to the east, to address safety concerns due to the airport’s proximity to the Hajar mountains.

The existing runway at the airport is 45 metres wide and 3.75 kilometres long, with three turning loops and a taxiway.

The current scope includes the construction of a new taxiway, the installation of airfield lighting and navigational aid systems (Navaids) and the construction of a new ATC tower, in addition to the extension of the existing runway.

A team of US-headquartered Ghafari and Spain’s Prointec is undertaking the project design for the package.

A team comprising UAE-based PMDC and Spain’s Ineco is the project management consultant.

In 2014, ADAC signed a memorandum of cooperation with Fujairah International airport to create an airport development masterplan.

The project aims to increase the emirate’s air traffic volumes and support its economic expansion strategy.

Mountains account for more than 80 per cent of the emirate’s 1,500-square-kilometre land area and its airport is the only of the UAE’s five international airports to be located on the coast of the Gulf of Oman.