10 Emirate of Abu Dhabi construction projects

While the city of Abu Dhabi is a hub of glamorous buildings, the surrounding wider emirate is home to some huge projects thanks to Plans Al Gharbia and Al Ain 2030. CW takes a look at some the big developments in the largest emirate of the UAE.

1. Ghantoot Green City

Completion date: 2020

Cost: US $10 billion

Ghantoot Green City is a mixed development located in Ghantoot at Abu Dhabi. The project is understood to cover 60km² and involves the construction of a city with a commercial centre, hotels, office blocks, residential developments, warehousing and light industrial areas. RNL, Hill International, KEO and WMZH are currently carrying out consultant duties.

2. Taweelah Aluminium Smelter

Completion date: 2011

Cost: US $10 billion

The 6km² complex will be constructed in two phases, with phase one due to be completed in 2010 and producing 700,000 tonnes per annum and 1.4 million annually at the end of phase two. In May 2007, a joint venture of SNC-Lavalin and WorleyParsons was awarded the engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM) services contract. Phase one is expected to be completed in 2010.

3. Khalifa Port and Industrial Zone

Completion date: 2023

Cost: US $5 billion

Khalifa Port and Industrial Zone (KPIZ) is designed as a multi-purpose facility that involves the construction of a global-scale container and industrial port in addition to the development of over 100km² of industrial, logistics, commercial, educational, and residential special economic and free zones.

International Bechtel Company Limited is carrying out the main contracting duties on site, with phase one expected to be completed during 2010.

4. Alghadeer

Completion date: 2015

Cost: US $4 billion

Straddling the Abu Dhabi-Dubai border, enabling works by Al Jaber continue, with the building contract estimated to be awarded by developer Sorouh at the end of the year.

When finished, Alghadeer will consist of more than 6000 homes built across six villages and have facilities such as mosques, cinemas, parks, schools and retail centres.

5. Mafraq - Ghweifat International Highway

Completion date: 2014

Cost: US $2.7 billion

The 327km highway will link Mafraq to the border post with Saudi Arabia, at Ghweifat, in the western part of Abu Dhabi Emirate. The highway will be expanded to eight lanes up to the Al Ruwais junction, and six lanes to the Saudi border.

In February 2009, the Department of Transport received Statements of Qualification (SOQ) from nine international consortia. Five consortia were shortlisted and prequalified. These include Anite, Buoygues, CCCC-MTD, IRTIBAAT, and Mafraq Motorway Group.

READERS' COMMENTS

MORE FROM ARABIANBUSINESS.COM