Contractors have been invited to prequalify for contracts covering the construction of a liquid bulk jetty at the Port of Sohar in Oman.

The scope of the works covers the construction of mooring and breasting dolphins, a 370-kilometre platform connecting to the existing terminal and related fixtures and fittings.

Interested companies have until 31 January to submit their prequalification documents. The construction of the jetty is expected to begin in June, and completed within 10 months.

The prequalification invitation follows the appointment of Dutch firm Royal Haskoning DHV as the consulting engineer by Sohar Industrial Port Company (SIPC). SIPC is a partnership between the Port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands and the Omani government.

The port has also issued a request for proposals (RFP) for a pilot boat that can transport people to and from seagoing vessels. The scope of the work is to supply, man, manage, operate and maintain a pilot boat at the port. The deadline for the submission of RFPs is 16 March.

The Port of Sohar is investing in several infrastructure projects aimed at increasing the port’s industrial capacity. In March 2012, the Brazilian mining company Vale opened its $1.36bn iron ore pelletising plant and distribution centre at the port.

The surrounding Sohar Free Zone is also expanding, with businesses establishing bases within the 500-hectare phase 1 of the zone. The free zone is being constructed in four phases, covering 4,500 hectares of land once complete.