KPA is expected to draw up a final prequalification list in one-two months. Among the local contractors looking at the contract are Gulf Dredging & Contracting Company (GDC), Kuwait Firstand a company identified as Mubarak. Due to the limited capabilities and equipment of the local firms, most of them are expected to team up with an international dredging partner to bid for the work.

The 18-month contract calls for the dredging of at least 6 million cubic metres, with the deepening of the access channel and marine basin.

Last September, KPA unveiled plans to invest KD 15 million-20 million ($50 million-66 million) for the ports' redevelopment and upgrade scheme. At present, there are 20 berths each at Shuaiba and Shuwaikh, which are serviced by five gantry and two mobile cranes. Sharjah-based Gulftainer Companyhas submitted a masterplan to KPA for the development of both ports (MEED 3:10:03).

The upgrade programme is being undertaken as part of government plans to service the reconstruction programme in Iraq.