Qatar updates contracting formulation

Qatar's authorities have taken several steps to help contractors involved in the country's QR25 billion (Dh26.16 billion) infrastructure-building programme.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) said on Sunday that it has updated contracting procedures in co-operation with FIDEC, an international corporation for contract formulation, to encourage globally-reputed players take part in the plan.

The duration of some projects would be extended from 18 to 24 months.

The downpayments for the contracts, which was earlier linked to a maximum ceiling depending on the size of the project, has now been set at 10 per cent for any project against a bank guarantee.

The contractors could import building materials without restrictions and would also be provided visas for their staff without restrictions according to the project duration.

A ban on the circulation of trucks and other electromechanical equipment on the capital's roads during peak hours will be lifted to enable contractors to speed up works.

A decision banning the entry of heavy old equipments will remain unless they pass technical inspections and environmental protection norms.

Ashghal earlier announced it will spend about QR25 billion on infrastructures' developments over a five-year plan period. The plan covers 32 road, 19 building and six waste-disposal facility development projects.