Qatar pulls out all the stops for 2006 Asiad

Qatar has in its quest to stage the perfect Asian Games in 2006 ensured that the multi-million dollar projects associated with its bid is attracting interest from the international sports equipment sector.

Keeping this in mind, the Qatar National Olympic Committee (QNOC) is organising an event called Qatar Sports International (QSI) in support of the Doha Asian Games 2006.

Khalifa Al Subaey, Chairman of the QSI Organising Committee explained that "apart from an annual budget of around $75m, much more will be invested in infrastructure and sports facilities for the Asian Games.

"One example is the complete redevelopment of the Khalifa Stadium site into a state-of-the-art sports city, this project is expected to cost $100m alone."

Qatar won the bid to host the Asian Games in 2006. Following this success the Doha Asian Games Organising Committee (DAGOC) was established by Sheikh Tamim Hamad Al Thani, President of the QNOC and a permanent member of the IOC.

Keeping the Asian Games as the main backdrop a series exhibitions and events will take place in Doha between 2002-2006. The first event will commence from December 9-12.

At the QSI conference the issues to be discussed will be the variables involved in staging a sports event of such magnitude. Official delegations from around 40 Olympic Council of Asia member countries have confirmed their attendance.

The Games organisers are putting together an extensive programme of new projects and renovation of existing facilities.

The President of QNOC, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani explained that "the overall scope of the work being undertaken will be concluded shortly by the Doha Asian Games Organising Committee (DAGOC). QSI sets out to promote awareness of the business opportunities surrounding the 2006 Doha Asian Games".

According to Khalifa Al Subaey, "the scope and scale of the projects will reflect the substantial funds being made available for the Games".

The following projects are being planned:

* Complete renovation and expansion of Khalifa stadium complex
* New Olympic Village to accommodate 10,000 athletes
* Public transport projects and accommodation for estimated 20,000 participants, officials & visitors
* Upgrading all 9 existing stadiums including the Itihad and Rayyan Clubs
* New 36 lane bowling alley complex, new shooting range, horse racing track and stables
* Renovation of the tennis stadium
* Numerous requirements for sports facilities infrastructure such as electronic scoreboards, seating, sports equipment, flooring and lighting