Qatar invites firms to prequalify for zoo project

16 April 2014

Work will involve building the New Doha Zoo

Qatar’s Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has invited companies to prequalify for the main construction contract for the New Doha Zoo project.

The scope of work involves construction of utilities, landscaping, animal exhibits and support buildings, hotels, a gondola system, river ride attraction, and the Aspire bridge. The contractor will also provide mechanical, electrical, and plumbing works and temporary site accommodation.

Eligible firms have until 12 May to submit prequalification entries for the project.

In November, Ashghal awarded the local office of KEO International Consultants with US-based HHCP+PJA a QR230m ($63.2m) contract for the design and construction supervision of the project, which aims to provide a unique zoological experience for visitors. The appointment followed on from Ashghal selecting HHCP+PJA to develop a concept masterplan for the zoo in December 2012.

Spanning an area of over 750,000 square metres, the zoo will boast a drive-through safari displaying animals and plants from around the world in environments set to mirror natural habitats of an African savannah, an Asian jungle and a South American rainforest. Facilities will include hotels; a land bridge to allow the animals to roam to the adjacent Aspire Park; an educational and conservation discovery centre; and multiple entertainment and food and beverage outlets.

Site preparation works on the project commenced in March 2013 on the project, which is scheduled to open by the end of 2017.

In March, Ashghal confirmed the award of two contracts with a combined value of about QR118m toward the development of the project. The two contracts were for enabling works and the design and construction of the animal relocation facility at Rawdet al-Faras.

The enabling and demolition works contract, valued at more than QR45m, was awarded to local Aswan Trading and Contracting Company. The contract includes demolition of buildings and existing facilities within the boundaries of the site. The works, estimated to take 14 months, will prepare the site for main construction and will ensure the protection and maintenance of the trees and natural environment onsite during excavation works.

Local Medgulf Construction Company won the second contract, valued at more than QR73m, which entails the design and construction of temporary housing facility for animals in Rawdet al-Faras. The one-year contract also includes the design and implementation of the temporary facility in Rawdet al-Faras where animals are housed during construction of the new park until they are able to return to the new zoo. The facility also includes residences for caretakers and a veterinary clinic.

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