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A partner’s perspective on working with Sharakat

Saudi Arabia’s water scarcity is at the centre of a blossoming infrastructure market, with private partners at its core. Its prosperity is reflected in the success of a number of flagship projects

By SHARAKAT

Qatar plans to spend in excess of $40bn on the development of its rail sector and has already awarded more than $16bn-worth of contracts on the Doha Metro.

Qatar Railways Development Company (QRDC), which was set up in November 2009, is responsible for developing and integrating the various elements of the country’s railway plans, known as the Qatar Integrated Rail Programme (QIRP). This includes connecting the country’s domestic rail network to those of its neighbours.

The programme covers the construction of a metro system in Doha, freight and passenger rail connections and a high-speed passenger line. Construction has also begun on a light rail network in the newly developed city of Lusail. A people mover in West Bay is also planned, although this is on hold.

QRDC is a joint venture between the Qatari state, which controls 51 per cent, and Germany’s Deutsche Bahn International, which holds the remaining 49 per cent. The government’s shares are held by Qatar Railways Company (Qatar Rail), a subsidiary of the Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, which is in turn is wholly owned by the Qatar Investment Authority.

The rail programme fits into a wider government strategy of trying to transform Qatar into a world-class economy by 2030, capable of sustaining its own development and providing a high standard of living for its people.

The need for a modern transport system stems in part from the country’s rapid population growth. The population is forecast to more than double to 3 million by 2030, something that highlights the need for improved infrastructure to alleviate congestion and facilitate the movement of goods and people around the country. Of more immediate concern is the Fifa World Cup footbal tournament in 2022, which is expected to attract about 400,000 football fans.

As a result, the railway system will be delivered in stages, with some construction work due to be completed by 2019 and 2020, allowing time for testing and commissioning ahead of the World Cup.