The GCC Technical Committee is poised to award the feasibility study contract for a pan-Gulf railway after opening commercial bids in early December. The project is seen as vital for improving social and economic links within the union. Three consortiums are in the running for the year-long study. A team of France’s Systra, Lebanon’s Khatib & Alami and Canada’s Canrail is the low bidder. The other groups competing for the contract are Germany’s DE-Consult with Lebanon’s Dar al-Handasah (Shair & Partners) and the US’ Parsons Brinckerhoff with Saudi Consulting Services (SaudConsult). The scope of works includes route alignment, creation of a legal model and financing and development options. The World Bank is adviser on the tendering process.