The platform package, estimated to be worth $110-120 million, covers the fabrication and installation of two drilling and production platforms at two separate locations in the North field in Qatar. Four companies are prequalified to submit technical prices by 20 June. Commercial bids are due to be returned by late July.

The prospective bidders are: Abu Dhabi-based National Petroleum Construction Company (NPCC); Jebel Ali-based J Ray McDermott Middle East; Singapore's Sembawang; and South Korea's Hyundai Heavy Industries(MEED 28:3:03). The platform package is the fourth EPC contract to be issued for bid by DEL. The others are the onshore gas treatment plant at Ras Laffan in Qatar, the sealines and the Ras Laffan-Taweelah export pipeline.

DEL is expected to tender by mid-May a fifth EPC contract covering the supply and installation of a gas receiving complex at Taweelah in Abu Dhabi emirate. The contract will include the installation of a gas terminal, a 48-inch-diameter onshore pipeline, metering system, launcher and related facilities.

The Dolphin pipeline will transport 3,200 million cubic feet a day of dry gas from the North field to customers in the UAE. Project completion is set for 2006.