Friday, June 15, 2007

GCC construction industry growing

DUBAI: The huge number of transport projects needed in the Gulf will ensure the regional construction industry continues to grow in the next few years, say the organisers of one of the industry's biggest exhibitions.

"The level of construction across the Middle East is showing no signs of slowing down," said IRR Exhibitions, which will host the Gulf Traffic Exhibition from December 10 to 12.

"The unique rates of regional development have led to population increases which, in turn, have resulted in a significantly higher demand for efficient transport infrastructure."

Most GCC countries have launched long-term strategic transport plans in a bid to alleviate escalating traffic congestion problems and support swelling populations.

Saudi Arabia has signed contracts worth $3.8 billion to carry out major railway projects within the kingdom, while Bahrain is investing $690 million into road projects.

These include major strategic projects such as the rebuilding of the Sitra causeway and redevelopment of the Umm Al Hassam junction, as well as roads improvements in villages and other secondary roads.

Other major projects in the region include the construction of a third metro line in Dubai linking passengers to the Jebel Ali International Airport, and a possible GCC rail link. Jordan will also build a light railway joining Amman and Zarqa. Both rail projects are due for completion in 2009.

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