Germany’s Siemens is the low bidder to carry out the master systems integrator package for the expansion of Muscat and Salalah International airports.

The contract covers all electronic infrastructure, including installing airport IT systems, IT networks and security systems at both airports.

Three companies submit their bids by the closing date of 18 April. Siemens submitted a bid of OR119m ($309m), UK-based Ultra Electronics submitted a bid of OR129m and France’s Thales submitted a bid of OR141m.

If the Omani government has the budget, then the contract could be awarded in May, says a source close to the project.

The main construction contracts for the airport were awarded in 2010. In October, a consortium of US’ Bechtel, the local Bahwan Engineering and Turkey’s Enka won the contract to build the new passenger terminal at Muscat airport (MEED 27:10:10). In November, a joint venture of local Galfar Engineering & Contracting and India’s Larsen & Toubro won the contract to build a new passenger terminal at Salalah airport.

A joint venture of Denmark’s Cowi and local Larsen Architects and Consulting Engineers is the consultant for both airport projects.

Oman’s Transport & Communications Ministry is the client for both the Muscat and Salalah airport projects.