$125b projects to bolster Qatar’s development

Qatar’s construction industry will be given a big boost by $125 billion worth of construction and energy projects being planned for the coming six years. Saudi companies in particular are eyeing business and investment prospects in the neighboring state. In a special press conference held on Sunday at the Al Faisaliah Hotel in Riyadh, Fadi Kaddoura, Group Vice President of the organiser IFP Group, explained how the upcoming Project Qatar. Project Qatar - the 9th International Construction, Building, Environmental Technology and Materials Exhibition, is an important platform for Saudi and international developers and investors to enter the dynamic Qatari construction market. “The 62,000 sqm exhibition will run from April 30 till May 3, hosting over 2,000 exhibitors representing 47 countries, out of which 26 are participating under national pavilions,” said Fadi Kaddoura “The Saudi Pavilion gathers 20 prominent companies, and is organised by our sister company, the Riyadh Exhibitions Co (REC)” Group Vice President of the organiser said. He also added that over 42,000 trade visitors and construction professionals are expected to visit the fair from the whole region, with major visitor turnout expected from Saudi Arabia. The press conference was attended by representatives from the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) as well as Commercial Counselors and Trade Commissioners from several Embassies of countries taking up major participation at Project Qatar 2012. Saudi participants at Project Qatar 2012 in particular stand to benefit from the Kingdom’s proximity to Qatar, the flexible custom regulations they share which gives them a competitive edge over other foreign exhibitors at the event. Two other major shows will run concurrently with Project Qatar 2012: Qatar Stone Tech 2012 — The International Stone and Stone Technology Show held in association with Verona Fiere and Confindustria Marmomacchine Association, and Heavy Max 2012 — The International Exhibition for Heavy Machinery and Construction Equipment and Plants. Among the major developments in the pipeline are projects for a $7 billion international airport in Qatar; a $5.5 billion deepwater seaport; and $20 billion for new roads and highways, while constructing 12 Eco — Friendly stadiums has been estimated to cost over $32 billion with the first stadium ready by 2015.