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Saudi Arabia: SR 191m underpass project in Al Khobar
10 Mar 10, Saudi Gazette
A new underpass is being constructed here to ease the flow of traffic. The SR191 million project which will connect King Abdullah Highway in Dhahran to Makkah Road will take 18 months to complete, Hussain Al-Balushi, Public Relations Manager in Dammam Municipality, told Saudi Gazette.
Qatar to award QR40bn contracts for five projects
10 Mar 10, Emirates Business 24/7
Qatar's Public Works Authority (Ashghal) will award five contracts worth QR40 billion (Dh40.34bn) in the next three months, a senior official told Emirates Business. Qatar, which holds the world’s third-largest natural gas reserves after Russia and Iran, has earmarked $20bn to develop road and infrastructure projects during 2009-2014. About 10 percent to 15 percent of this mamount has been used, he said.
Iran: Rail Cooperation With Russia
10 Mar 10, Iran Daily
The Islamic Republic of Iran and Russia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a joint company for investment in Qazvin-Rasht-Astara railroad
Abu Dhabi foreign trade grows 9%
10 Mar 10, Gulf News
Abu Dhabi's foreign trade rose to Dh112.071 billion in 2009, an increase of 9 per cent over 2008, Saeed Ahmad Abdullah Al Muhairi, Director General of Abu Dhabi Customs, said yesterday.
Six more metro lines planned in Tehran
09 Mar 10, AME Info
Six additional lines for Tehran's metro are planned by Tehran Urban & Suburban Railway CO.
Economic growth in UAE forecast to double
09 Mar 10, The National
Economic growth in the UAE will more than double this year to 3.2 per cent as oil prices strengthen and business activity picks up, the Minister of Economy says.
Renovated Sheikh Maktoum Road in Ajman Opens Tomorrow
09 Mar 10, Khaleej Times
Motorists commuting to and from Ajman can finally heave a sigh of relief with the inauguration of Sheikh Maktoum Road around 10.30am tomorrow. The renovation of the road and construction of new bridges cost Dh200 million, according to Ahmed Abdul Razak, Director of the Engineering Department at Ajman Municipality and Planning Directorate.
Kuwait sets deadline for Jaber bridge bids
09 Mar 10, AME Info
Kuwait's Ministry of Public Works has said it plans to float a tender for the Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmad Bridge project, with the bid envelopes set to be opened on July 8, Al Watan Daily has reported.
Abu Dhabi parking fines up 43% in Feb
09 Mar 10, Arabian Business
A total of 11,987 parking fines were issued last month in Abu Dhabi as a result of the recently introduced paid-for parking rules. The number of tickets for illegal or improper parking increased by 43 percent in February from the previous month, when 6,800 fines were issued.
Qatar: Salwa Road roundabouts to be converted as tunnels
08 Mar 10, The Peninsula
Several major roundabouts on the Salwa Road — Ain Khalid, Al Aziziya, Central Souq and Qatar Decor — will be converted as tunnels.
Abu Dhabi's Al Salam tunnel opened after maintenance works
07 Mar 10, Gulf News
The Municipality of Abu Dhabi City has recently opened the tunnel, channeling traffic from the extension of Al Salam Street towards Al Maqta Bridge. The tunnel had been partially closed for maintenance works for about two weeks.
Tiny cameras to hunt speedsters
07 Mar 10, Emirates Business 24/7
The new sophisticated compact cameras which can hardly be detected by drivers are part of a campaign by the Abu Dhabi Traffic Police to curb road violations following a 70 percent increase in speed offences in 2009.
New model for traffic needs
06 Mar 10, The National
Planners looking for the best ways to solve traffic problems are to be helped by a new computer model. The model, which can be applied across the country, will help them decide whether to build new roads, expand existing ones or add more public transport. Planners can input details, such as the predicted population growth in an area, to calculate the travel demand on roads.
Kuwait: Ministry of Public Works working to develop infrastructure
06 Mar 10, Kuwait News Agency
The Ministry of Public Works is moving towards a phase of infrastructure development projects, and some of these projects are already underway, said Assistant Undersecretary for Road Engineering Affairs Eng. Hussain Al-Mansour on Saturday. He explained that the ministry, in coordination with the Central Tenders Committee, would be placing the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Bridge project up for bids, revealing that bid envelopes would be opened on July 8. About the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Bridge, the assistant undersecretary said that the project included designing and constructing two sea bridges - one linked to Subbiyah (main bridge) and the other linked to Doha.
UAE's non-oil exports rise to $18bn in 2009
06 Mar 10, Arabian Business
The UAE's non oil exports rose to $17.97 billion in 2009, from $16.3 billion the previous year, state news agency WAM reported on Saturday.
Dammam underpass to open today
05 Mar 10, Saudi Gazette
Municipal authorities here have announced that the Dammam underpass near Prince Mohammed Bin Fahd sports stadium will be reopened for public use on Friday.
Jordan: King Faisal Street makeover to bring investors, citizens back down town
03 Mar 10, Jordan Times
King Faisal Street will soon receive a facelift in order to trigger investment in the downtown area, according to a Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) official. The project entails improving street lighting, cleaning store facades and widening sidewalks
Qatar: Work on Education City rail network to begin next month
02 Mar 10, The Peninsula
Work on the proposed internal rail network in the Education City is expected to begin this month. The project being launched by Qatar Foundation (QF) is scheduled to be completed in three years, official sources told Al Sharq.
Oman: Upgrade of Jabal Akhdar road to commence soon
02 Mar 10, Oman Daily Observer
The Ministry of Transport and Communications will shortly launch work on a major upgrade of the Jabal Akhdar road in an effort to enhance the safety of road communications to this rapidly developing tourist haven in the Interior region of Oman
Kingdom positioning itself as regional hub
02 Mar 10, Jordan Times
The Kingdom is positioning itself as an energy and transport connection hub for the entire region and Europe, a senior government official said on Monday. He added that Jordan is working to increase regional infrastructure connectivity in energy and railways
Jordan Railway Master Plan Study ready
01 Mar 10, Jordan News Agency
The Jordan Railway Master Plan was completed and would be announced within this week, Minister of Transport Alaa Batayneh said on Sunday.
Ashghal opens Al Khor Intersection for traffic
01 Mar 10, The Peninsula
The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) threw open the Al Khor Intersection for traffic yesterday. The opening of the Intersection will help ease the traffic flow on the busy route and increase the safety level of Al Shamal road, said Nasser Al Naoimi, Director, Road Projects, Ashghal.
Doha to spend $19.2bn on road and sewerage projects
28 Feb 10, Arabian Business
Doha’s Public Works Authority (Ashghal) will launch projects worth QR70bn ($19.2bn) in the next five to eight years, according to reports. Around $12.4bn will be spent on road projects and another $6.8bn has been set aside for major sewerage projects. The work will also include 22 major road projects, Nasser Al Mowlawi, Ashghal’s acting general manager, told The Peninsula.
2nd stage of Hilla-Basra railway project opens
28 Feb 10, Aswat al-Iraq
Iraqi Minister of Transport Amer Abduljabbar opened the 50-km-long second stage of the Hilla-Basra railway project, according to the Babel province’s railways department chief on Sunday.
SR300m allocated for Yanbu development
28 Feb 10, Arab News
About SR300 million has been allocated for new projects in Yanbu in the current year, Chairman of Yanbu municipality Abdu Al-Ali Al-Sheikh said on Saturday. "The new projects include street-lighting, asphalting and pavement construction of roads, rainwater drainage projects and development of beach and tourist locations," Al-Sheikh said.
6 of the best Top GCC road projects
27 Feb 10, Arabian Business
Thanks to new urban development and rampant growth in car usage, road building is one area where they are really focusing their efforts right now. Saudi Arabia allocated US $3.17 billion in its 2010 budget for construction of 6400 kilometres of roads. Last year, the country set aside SR 11.5 billion (US $3.06 billion) for road construction. In Dubai, where many freehold residential projects remain in limbo, the powerful Road & Transport Authority has allocated US $2 billion for project development in 2010. The money will cover around 129 jobs, 13 of which will be new.
Traffic to Abu Dhabi to be diverted
27 Feb 10, Gulf News
Inbound traffic from Dubai towards Abu Dhabi will be diverted today to Exit 333 passing Khalifa City (B) to link up with the Al Ain-Abu Dhabi Road, Abu Dhabi Municipality announced in a press statement. Such diversions, in coordination with the Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters (Traffic & Patrol Directorate), will continue until the construction at the new interchange at Al Mafraq Bridge is completed by the end of the year. The new interchange is set to contribute to higher inbound and outbound traffic flow in the city.
Iran-Turkmenistan-Kazakhstan Rail
26 Feb 10, Railway Technology
The north-south railway project linking Kazakhstan and Iran via Turkmenistan has received a major boost with the signing of two funding agreements.
Qatar begins work on $40bn rail projects
25 Feb 10, Arabian Business
Work has begun on Qatar’s multibillion-dollar metro and ground rail projects, set to be completed in phases until 2016, and central to the emirate’s dreams of hosting the 2022 football World Cup.
Qatar: Work starts on railway projects
25 Feb 10, The Peninsula
Preliminary work on the ambitious multi-billion dollar metro and ground rail projects has begun and once the networks are ready trains could be moving at speeds of 80 to 350km per hour. The projects are to be completed in phases between 2010 and 2016 and will take into consideration Qatar’s bid to host the football World Cup in 2022.
Arab road link plan approved
25 Feb 10, Oman Daily Observer
The Arab Transport Ministers have approved a road link plan between the Arab states which will be submitted to the next Arab Summit in Libya.
Express route set to launch in Sharjah
25 Feb 10, Gulf News
A new bus route is being launched in the city today. The express service will make commuting easier for residents heading from the border of Ajman towards Al Saja'a Industrial Area. Route 66 is the latest express line to be launched and does not make any stops along its journey, it was announced yesterday.
Qatar: Public buses carry 2m a month
25 Feb 10, The Peninsula
The public transport system in Qatar has proved a big success and complaints from the public have come down drastically with a notable improvement in the quality and range of services being provided by Mowasalat, a senior official of the company said yesterday.
Qatar: Hi-tech bus shelters planned
25 Feb 10, The Peninsula
Mowasalat is planning to set up hi-tech bus shelters equipped with digital information boards
Oman's 1st suspension bridge in Sur ready for inauguration
24 Feb 10, Times of Oman
Oman's first hanging bridge, Khor Al Bath, connecting mainland Sur and the picturesque village of Aijah, is complete with the exception of fixing walkway tiles on the bridge deck. A project of the Ministry of Regional Municipalities and Water Resources, the bridge spans 204m with the biggest span measuring 140m.
Abu Dhabi moves outbound lanes of Eastern Ringroad to facilitate Salam Street tunnel construction
23 Feb 10, Gulf News
The Municipality of Abu Dhabi City, in collaboration with the General Directorate of Abu Dhabi Police, announced that the outbound lanes of the Eastern Ring Road will be moved. It is to make those lanes in parallel with the pathway going towards the naval base area, with three lanes on each direction, said a statement issued by the municipality.
Changes likely in Al-Haramain railway route
23 Feb 10, Arab News
A workshop is to be organized in Jeddah to examine possible changes to the route of the Al- Haramain high-speed railway service, municipality sources told Arab News. "All concerned service providers, including the General Organization of Railways, will participate in the workshop to review a study that recommends shifting the track from the middle island of the Al-Haramain Expressway to the new ring road currently being constructed by the Ministry of Transport in Jeddah," one source said.
Abu Dhabi to tap debt market for road project
23 Feb 10, Emirates Business 24/7
Abu Dhabi is expected to begin raising Dh9 billion from banks and the debt capital market this year to fund the region's first transport private public partnership (PPP) project. A senior official said up to 30 banks are expected to participate in the Mafraq-Ghweifat motorway, the Dh10bn project that will link Mafraq (south of the Abu Dhabi metropolitan area) to the border post with Saudi Arabia at Ghweifat in the western part.
Abu Dhabi to focus on investing in infrastructure
23 Feb 10, Emirates Business 24/7
Abu Dhabi said yesterday it would give priority to infrastructure in government spending for the next few years as part of its long-term development blueprint intended to achieve sustained growth in the oilreliant economy.
Qatar: Link road between Bani Hajer and Izghava completed
23 Feb 10, The Peninsula
The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has completed the link road between Bani Hajer and Izghava. The link road will help ease traffic flow between Nasiriyah, Bani Hajer and Izghava, linking the North Road
ID80bn to improve roads in Baghdad
23 Feb 10, Aswat al-Iraq
A total of 80 billion Iraqi dinars (ID) has been allocated to improve the roads in the capital Baghdad, the local municipality said on Tuesday
Transport becomes private affair
22 Feb 10, The National
The Abu Dhabi Government may ask construction companies to provide Dh100 billion (US$27.22bn) in financing for transport projects over the next 20 years, as planners look to increase the role of public-private partnerships (PPPs).The funds would comprise a third of the estimated Dh300bn in metro, tram, high-speed rail, motorway and bridge projects outlined in the Government’s 2030 plan.
$108 billion to develop new ports and cities in Kuwait
22 Feb 10, Khaleej Times
Among the projects Al-Sagar mentioned were construction of railway system, seaports, new industrial cities and investments in power, water, oil, health and education sectors. Al-Shamali, on his part, lauded their countries' excellent political and economic ties which he cited would further enhance after the creation of Japan-Kuwait Businessmen Committee.
Reinventing Capital: Way to Go UAE
22 Feb 10, Khaleej Times
The emphasis is on public transport including Metro and trams. The Abu Dhabi Metro will be a reality by 2016. And a network of trams set along the existing roads will further ease the pressure on the capital’s streets.
Saudi Arabia, Yemen railway link being discussed
21 Feb 10, Arab News
Plans to build a railway to Yemen and link it to the proposed Gulf railway from Kuwait to Oman is to be discussed by the Technical and Finance Committee of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) which is currently meeting at the GCC's headquarters in Riyadh, sources told Arab News
2030 Plan: Road map to a healthy future for Abu Dhabi
21 Feb 10, The National
A series of bold initiatives designed to turn Abu Dhabi from a gridlocked car capital into one of the world’s most pedestrian-friendly cities was unveiled by planners yesterday.
Financial and Technical Committee reviews GCC Railway Project
21 Feb 10, Saudi Press Agency
The Third meeting of the financial and technical committee of the Six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) assigned to complete the studies of the GCC railway project began here today. The participants of the meeting are scheduled to review engineering designs of the project.
New Abu Dhabi urban design aims at reducing personal motor vehicles
21 Feb 10, Gulf News
Abu Dhabi will be a better and safer place to walk, cycle, and take public transport thanks to a new system of urban design. The emirate aims to reduce the reliance on personal motor vehicles by implementing a network of public transit to include high-speed rail and rapid transit options such as trams and buses, according to the Urban Street Design Manual, unveiled Yesterday by Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC), the agency responsible for the future of Abu Dhabi’s urban environment.
Urban superblocks to be broken up
20 Feb 10, The National
On Khaleej al Arabi Road, the well-informed motorist cruises along at a gentle 60kph to catch a series of green signals on the way off the island. Sticking to that speed certainly beats racing from signal to signal, then sitting in frustration at a red light, said Alan Perkins, senior planning manager at the Urban Planning Council (UPC). The Urban Street Design Manual says signals should be spaced and synchronised to desired speeds – which, under its plan, would be 60kph for most urban streets.
Narrower lanes will cut speeding
20 Feb 10, The National
Planners hope that changing the infrastructure will change the way people drive. Out with the right-turn lanes with long, sweeping curves that allow cars to pass through at speeds greater than 40kph. Goodbye giant roundabouts with no safe pedestrian crossings. Farewell to the wide lanes on urban streets that are more suitable for high-speed motorways.
Abu Dhabi unveils urban street design manual
20 Feb 10, Gulf News
The Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC), the agency responsible for the future of Abu Dhabi's urban environment, on Saturday unveiled new street design standards. They accord with the guiding principles of Capital 2030, which call for safer, more comfortable and aesthetic street environments across the emirate.
Al Salam Street tunnel set to open six months ahead of schedule
18 Feb 10, Emirates Business 24/7
The first tunnel at Al Salam Street will open today near Khalifa Park, Abu Dhabi Municipality said. The inauguration comes six months ahead of schedule and is part of continuing efforts to gradually open surface and bypass roads in the run-up to the full completion of the project. The 850-metres long tunnel has four lanes and an estimated capacity to accommodate 6,000 vehicles per hour in each direction.
Committee to study designs for Haramain train network
18 Feb 10, Arab News
Mayor of Jeddah Adil Fakieh established a committee on Wednesday to study designs for the main terminal of the Al-Haramain train network that is to be built in the Old Airport area. The committee will consider designs, approve the several stages of the project and issue a construction licence after completing all required procedures
Documents on 4 Al-Haramain stations ready says Al Hokail
18 Feb 10, Saudi Gazette
The Saudi Railways Organization (SRO) has announced that it will submit next Wednesday the specification documents for the construction of four passenger stations which forms part of the new multibillion riyal 450 km Al-Haramain rail development.
Oman: 77.4km roads opened in Jaalan
18 Feb 10, Oman Daily Observer
Internal roads in the Wilayat of Jaalan Bani Bu Hassan were opened yesterday under the auspices of Mohammed bin Ali al Alawi, Minister of Legal Affairs. The total cost of the 77.4-km long project is 5.8 million rials
Public transport is a better solution
18 Feb 10, Gulf News
Dubai: Municipality's Car-free Day is an important reality check to see how large numbers of people can use public transport. Even if Car-Free Day only managed to get people out of their cars to a small degree, that is a success.
Capital's Residents Welcome Fines for Illegal Parking Round the Clock
17 Feb 10, The National
The Department of Transport’s decision to impose fines on motorists for parking vehicles illegally in the city, even in the night hours, from February 21 will ease the parking woes, residents of the capital feel.
Official clarifies new parking law in Abu Dhabi
17 Feb 10, UAE Interact
Starting on Sunday, parking laws will be enforced in the paid parking areas in Abu Dhabi roundthe- clock, all year round, but drivers can still park for free after 9pm, on Fridays and on public holidays, a senior official said yesterday.
Salam Street, Al Falah Street junction to be partially closed for traffic
17 Feb 10, Gulf News
The intersection of Salam Street and Al Falah Street in Abu Dhabi city will be partially closed from Thursday midnight (February 18), the Municipality of Abu Dhabi City announced. The intersection will be completely closed to traffic later this month in preparation for the construction of the main tunnel of Salam Street, measuring 3.1km long that begins after the Sea Palace and runs through the city down to the Mina area, said the Municipality.
Right turn lanes are too wide experts say
16 Feb 10, The National
Traffic experts invited to help solve the capital’s road woes discussed suggestions yesterday including making right-hand turning lanes narrower to making pavements more even. Sami al Musawi, a traffic planning engineer at Abu Dhabi Municipality, related how his team “walked the streets, spotting problems”. He said right-turning lanes were too wide, allowing two cars to turn simultaneously.
Oman: RO55m roads in Bahla opened
16 Feb 10, Oman Daily Observer
Internal road projects at cost of 5.5 million rials were opened in the Wilayat of Bahla yesterday at a ceremony held under the auspices of Shaikh Mohammed bin Ahmed al Harthy, State Adviser, in the presence of Dr Khamis bin Mubarak al Alawi, Minister of Transport and Communications, and dignitaries.
Oman: New projects worth RO79.9m awarded
16 Feb 10, Oman Daily Observer
The Tender Board awarded projects worth 79.97 million rials during its first meeting of the year here yesterday. Tenders include construction of Alla'jal road -- Bowa-Halban in the Al Batinah Region (RO 4,279,239); additional works for the Salalah-Thumrait road (RO 3,512,440)
24 hours, 365 days of paid parking in Abu Dhabi
16 Feb 10, Gulf News
From Sunday, the paid parking system in Abu Dhabi will be enforced roundthe- clock, all year round, including Fridays and public holidays, a senior official said on Monday.Najib Al Zarouni, General Manager of Parking at the Department of Transport, said the move will help organise parking and prevent illegal parking.
Kuwait approves plans for $25bn GCC railway
15 Feb 10, Arabian Business
Kuwait Municipality has reportedly approved plans for the country’s section of the $25bn regional railway network. According to the Kuwait Times, senior officials from the commerce ministry’s transport department will hold a round of meetings with other ministries before publishing the first tenders in the next few months.
Saudi Arabia Railroad expansion keystone for growth
14 Feb 10, Arab News
MASS transit is an important component of Saudi Arabia's long-term development plans. Occupying an area as large as western Europe, highways and air routes inundate the Kingdom, connecting regions and transporting resources to marketplaces and ports.
Doha: Rayyan Interchange to open tomorrow
14 Feb 10, The Peninsula
The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) will partially open Rayyan Interchange tomorrow (Monday). As part of the first stage opening of the Interchange, Ashghal will open the first bridge of the Interchange on one direction from Massila Petrol Station towards Rayyan town (Mucafahah Roundabout).
Bahrain roads revamp not enough
14 Feb 10, Trade Arabia
An upgraded road network alone will never solve Bahrain's traffic congestion problems, with more than 400,000 registered vehicles and not enough alternative means of transportation, according to the Works Ministry. Among this is a public transport masterplan covering more than 180km of strategic road network with state-of-the-art light rail transit, monorail, tramways and bus rapid transit systems
Abu Dhabi tops GCC capitals in spending on infrastructure
11 Feb 10, Emirates Business 24/7
Abu Dhabi is spending more on infrastructure development than any other capital in the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), said a senior municipality official. Giant infrastructure projects are being undertaken in the city and its suburbs in line with Abu Dhabi Vision 2030. The municipality is currently engaged in executing infrastructure projects worth Dh19 billion and has spent more than Dh20bn on major roadworks in the past three years. Abu Dhabi is seeing major growth in infrastructure projects such as roads and bridges, this year we are executing projects valued at Dh19bn
New system could avoid traffic jams
11 Feb 10, The National
Imagine knowing if a crash, construction project or sandstorm has caused a traffic jam so you would know not to drive into it. Imagine if traffic signals changed themselves to make it easier for you to go a different way. It may sound too good to be true, but a student at Khalifa University of Science, Technology and Research (Kustar) is working on a computer program that could do just that.
Qatar Traffic Dept asks Ashghal to improve Industrial Area roads
11 Feb 10, The Peninsula
While deaths due to traffic accidents are on the decline in Qatar, the Industrial Area remains a death trap, claiming the highest number of pedestrian casualties reported in 2009. A senior official at the Traffic Department yesterday called on Ashghal (Public Works Authority) and the Urban Planning and Development Authority to take immediate action to address the poor condition of roads in the Industrial Area, noting that this had led to the large number of accidents in the area.
SRO invites tenders for Haramain railway project
11 Feb 10, Arabian Business
The Saudi Railway Organisation (SRO) announced on Wednesday that the 450 kilometre Haramain railway project is on track, following the completion of procedures to invite tenders to begin the second and final phase of the project
UAE - UK trade talks take place
10 Feb 10, Arabian Business
Initial talks have taken place in an effort to increase trade between the UAE and the UK by 60 percent to GBP12bn by 2012.
International Consortia submit bids for Abu Dhabi highway
08 Feb 10, AME Info
Abu Dhabi's Department of Transport has announced it has received bids from three international consortia competing for the 25 year concession to upgrade, finance, operate and maintain the Mafraq-Ghweifat Highway
Abu Dhabi installs countdown signal system for pedestrians
06 Feb 10, Gulf News
The Municipality of Abu Dhabi City has installed a countdown pedestrian signaling system on Corniche Street, starting from the Hilton intersection to Al Mina intersection. It is part of the Municipality's efforts to introduce the latest traffic systems at world-class standards, ensuring security and safety of all road users, said a statement issued by the Municipality.
Oman: Qurum Commercial District development plan unveiled
06 Feb 10, Oman Daily Observer
Muscat Municipality recently completed the technical designs and specifications for the development of the Qurum Commercial District, and parts of the wadi crossing the district. The project includes various elements, including a public plaza in the middle of the commercial district. The plaza will have pathways for pedestrians, large network of pedestrian crossings and one main pedestrian bridge connecting between Al Oreimi and CCC malls across the wadi
Qatar: Al Shamaal Road to open partially by month end
06 Feb 10, The Peninsula
The Al Shamaal Road will open partially by the end of this month. The works on Al Huwaila-Ansanam stretch is progressing fast and it would be thrown open to traffic at the end of this month, said Saad Ali Al Naoimi, the Central Municipal Council (CMC) member who represents the constituency in the Council
Saudi Arabia: Makrona flyover to ease Jeddah traffic congestion
05 Feb 10, Arab News
A flyover at the intersection of Hera Street and Makrona Street was opened on Thursday for vehicles. The new bridge, constructed at a cost of SR18 million, was one of the several projects implemented by Jeddah Municipality to ensure smooth flow of traffic
Kuwait: Minister Safar signs KD31mln deals on major projects
04 Feb 10, Kuwait News Agency
Kuwait's Minister of Public Works and Minister of State for Municipal Affairs Dr. Fadhel Safar Ali Safar has signed here on Thursday two agreements and four contracts on the implementation of key road and construction projects. The total costs of the deals amount to KD 31 million.
UAE overtakes Saudi to become top Arab exporter in 2009
04 Feb 10, Emirates Business 24/7
The UAE overtook Saudi Arabia to become the largest Arab exporter of goods and services in 2009 but the kingdom could be back on top in 2010, official figures showed yesterday.
Qatar to go ahead with $1bn subsea tunnel
03 Feb 10, Arabian Business
Qatar will proceed with plans for a 12km subsea tunnel linking Doha’s new airport with the city’s financial centre, it has been reported.
UAE top choice for GCC investors as 80% investments come from region
03 Feb 10, Emirates Business 24/7
The UAE has emerged as the best destination for investors from its partners in the GCC, attracting more than 22,000 investors from those countries until the beginning of 2009, according to official data
Abu Dhabi cleans up and maintains pedestrian subways
02 Feb 10, Gulf News
The Municipality of Abu Dhabi City has started a comprehensive cleaning process of [pedestrian] subways in the capital, to remove graffiti and clean the walls to upgrade the urbanised appearance of the city.
Iraq To Invite Bids For $3 Billion Baghdad Railway Project
02 Feb 10, Dow Jones Network
Iraq's government plans to invite foreign companies to build an estimated $3 billion railway line around Baghdad that will interconnect with other parts of the country and improve transportation of people and goods in the capital
Kuwait to spend $16.6bn on projects
02 Feb 10, Emirates Business 24/7
The Kuwaiti cabinet has allocated $16.6 billion (Dh60.9bn) for capital spending in the next fiscal year starting April 1 as part of a four-year development plan, said a government statement said. The plan, the first since 1986, includes such mega projects as developing a new business hub called Silk City estimated to cost $77bn, a major container harbour and a 25-kilometre causeway. It also includes a railway and metro system
Qatar: Road from Mesaieed to Sealine to get facelift
02 Feb 10, The Peninsula
The accident-prone Mesaieed-Sealine road is being expanded to avert accidents. Traffic department officials hope that when the road expansion is completed with two carriageways on either side of it, some 90 percent of the mishaps would be prevented.
Saudi Arabia: Haramain railway gathers steam
02 Feb 10, Arab News
The Council of Ministers moved Monday to speed up the construction of the 450- km Haramain railway project, which will link the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah with Jeddah and facilitate the transportation of pilgrims.
Saudi govt loans to fund railway linking holy cities
02 Feb 10, Arabian Business
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund will provide interest-free loans for work on a rail line linking Islam’s two holiest cities as the government expands infrastructure spending. Saudi Arabia wants to speed up the construction of the 450-kilometre (280-mile) rail line linking Jeddah’s international airport with Mecca and Medina.
Gulf Rail Tenders for Study likely by March
01 Feb 10, Times of Oman
Tenders for an engineering study of the 2,117-km-long inter-Gulf rail network will be floated in the first quarter of 2010, GCC General Secretariat sources said yesterday.
Iran: Towhid Tunnel Opens
01 Feb 10, Iran Daily
Towhid Tunnel opened on Monday in the presence of a number of high-ranking government, Tehran Municipality and Tehran City Council officials. Tehran Municipality has built the immense tunnel at a cost of over $400 million in the city center to ease traffic between the northern and southern parts of the capital
Abu Dhabi to Improve Parks
01 Feb 10, Khaleej Times
The municipality of Abu Dhabi City will be embarking on improvement and maintenance works of several parks across the emirate to bring them in line with the urban development and population growth of the Capital. The refurbishment works include revamping of irrigation networks, lighting works, repaving of internal roads and walkways within the parks, providing suitable and convenient seats, park toilets, water and electricity extensions
GCC rail project to cost $25bn
31 Jan 10, Arab News
The much talked about Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) railway project, linking GCC member countries, is expected to cost $25 billion, said an informed source at the GCC General Secretariat. The 2,117-km-long network, starting in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, is likely to be completed by 2017, the source said. Tenders for an engineering study for the railway will be called in the first quarter of this year.
Heavy public spending and high oil prices to boost Saudi economy
31 Jan 10, Emirates Business 24/7
Heavy public spending will ally with higher oil prices and production to boost Saudi Arabia's economy by 3-5 per cent in the next three years. We expect investment inhydrocarbons, utilities, transport, education infrastructure and other sectors to remain robust
ADB to Release Armenia - Iran Railroad Tender
31 Jan 10, Iran Daily
Asian Development Bank (ADB) will announce an international tender in April to select a company to develop a feasibility project for the construction of Armenia-Iran railroad.
Abu Dhabi eyeing AED45bn investments over 5yrs - paper
29 Jan 10, Arabian Business
Existing and new companies to be set up in the next five years in Abu Dhabi are estimated to invest over AED45bn, according to a report.
Capital to turn on a further 3725 paid parking meters
29 Jan 10, The National
From Saturday, drivers will have to pay to park in another 3,725 spaces in the congested heart of the capital. Transport officials announced yesterday that they were turning on the parking meters, which were installed some time ago, in the area bordered by Hamdan Street, Sheikh Zayed the First Street, Airport Road and Baniyas Street.
Qatar: Master plan to prod shift in population
28 Jan 10, The Peninsula
Qatar’s population distribution is likely to undergo a shift with the implementation of the Qatar National Master Plan 2010-2032. The document, which outlines the country’s development for the next 20 years, stresses encouraging both the nationals and expatriates to use the public transport system
Abu Dhabi: Mawaqif paid parking services to be introduced in a new area starting 30 January 2010
28 Jan 10, AME Info
The Department of Transport (DoT) announced today the start of Mawaqif's 'roll out plan 2010' that was revealed earlier this month, aiming to provide a world-class car parking management system in the capital of the UAE. The implementation of paid parking services will be introduced in 19 areas around the capital. Every month, paid parking will be introduced in 1 or 2 areas of the city.
Qatar: Ashghal opens Al Sanie Interchange for traffic
28 Jan 10, The Peninsula
The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has opened Al Sanie Interchange near to Umm Al Amad zone for traffic. This new Interchange is expected to ease traffic flow to the nearby suburbs including Sannie, Umm Al Amad, Umm Abiriyya zones and vast farm areas in the region
10 KSA projects you should be involved in
28 Jan 10, Construction Week
Saudi Arabia has announced another expansionary budget for 2010, confirming that it will continue to spend heavily on key development projects. The government has projected expenditure of US $144 billion (SR 540 billion) against revenue of $125 billion and has promised to allocate significant funds to transportation and utilities infrastructure.
Qatar: $20bn for road, drainage projects
28 Jan 10, The Peninsula
The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has earmarked $20bn for its road and drainage projects over the next five years.
Abu Dhabi plans 26 new infrastructure projects in 2010
27 Jan 10, Emirates Business 24/7
Abu Dhabi Municipality has said 26 new infrastructure projects will be developed this year in Abu Dhabi City and its suburbs. At the first municipal forum organised by the Municipal Affairs Department at Yas Island on Monday, Salma Al Junaibi, Director of Contracts and Tenders Department at the Municipality, said: “Sixteen of the new projects will be related to roads and infrastructure and 10 to urban planning.”
Qatar to invest over $21bn in transport infrastructure
27 Jan 10, AME Info
With new tenders being announced on a frequent basis, Qatar is paving the way for world class future transportation projects
TDIC floats two more Saadiyat tenders
26 Jan 10, Construction Week
The projects involve earthwork grading, road construction, bridgeworks, barrier erection and signal construction as well as infrastructure works comprising sanitation networks, irrigation and drainage systems, and natural gas/fibre optic networks.
Iraq: Cornerstone laid for southern Kirkuk road
26 Jan 10, Aswat al-Iraq
Kirkuk's governor laid the cornerstone of a project to pave a road in southern Kirkuk at a total cost of 588 million Iraqi dinars, according to an official source.
Qatar: New tunnel boasts of latest technology
26 Jan 10, The Peninsula
The newly opened Ras Abu Aboud Tunnel is a major infrastructure breakthrough in Qatar meeting the highest safety and efficiency standards having been installed with some of the latest technology ever witnessed in the country.
Iraq plans $3bn railway project
25 Jan 10, AME Info
The Iraqi transport ministry plans to build a $3bn rail network and two principal passenger stations around Baghdad
Private sector key to infrastructure growth
25 Jan 10, Emirates Business 24/7
As the need for infrastructure development increases across the region, private sector will play an important role in meeting the demands, said analysts. Private sector can take up projects like power plants, water desalination, highways etc.
Sharjah to Make Abras Safer for Commuters
24 Jan 10, Khaleej Times
The Sharjah Municipal Council has ordered safety standards in the use of abras as a means of transport be ensured. Salim Obaid Al Suwaidi, chairman of Sharjah Municipal Council board, ordered that floating platforms be established in order to avoid any incidents while boarding and disembarking from the abras.
Part of Abu Dhabi's Eastern Ring Road to close
23 Jan 10, Arabian Business
The Municipality of Abu Dhabi City in cooperation with the Abu Dhabi Police, announced on Saturday that it's going to close the left fast lane, out of the three lanes for 300 m from the Eastern Ring Road in both directions near the Ministry of Labour. The closure will remain in effect for ten days starting Sunday, 24 January as part of the ongoing construction work on the project and the current preparatory work for the opening of the first tunnel under the development of Al Salam Street and the Eastern Ring Road.
Abu Dhabi paid parking to be rolled out in 2010
20 Jan 10, Arabian Business
Abu Dhabi transport chiefs are to roll out their paid-for parking plans to a total of 19 areas in the city during 2010. The UAE capital's Department of Transport (DoT) has outlined its strategy to expand its Mawaqif project which was introduced to the public in October 2009.
All electric buses to debut on Sir Bani Yas Island in UAE
20 Jan 10, Gulf News
The world's first two zero-emission all-electric buses will be making their debut runs on the western region's Sir Bani Yas Island, it was announced on Tuesday by the Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC).
GCC economy to hit $2tn in next decade - NCB
20 Jan 10, Arabian Business
The GCC is set to become a $2 trillion economy in the next decade and will become increasingly more important to the global economy, according to a new report.
Riyadh's metro rail project inches closer to reality
20 Jan 10, Gulf News
Prince Salman Bin Abdul Aziz, Riyadh Governor, has revealed that the design work and studies carried out for the construction of the kingdom's ambitious metro rail project have been completed.
Abu Dhabi economy set to grow 4% - govt official
19 Jan 10, Arabian Business
Abu Dhabi's economy is expected to grow by up to 4 percent this year and the Gulf emirate is comfortable with oil prices at around $80 a barrel, a government official said on Monday
Kuwait completes rail, metro studies
19 Jan 10, AME Info
Kuwait's communications minister has said that studies on the planned subway and railway systems in the country have been concluded and submitted to the major projects committee for consideration, Kuwait Times has reported.
Yemen to roll out passenger and cargo railway project in July
18 Jan 10, Gulf News
Yemen will launch a rail project worth $3.5 billion (Dh12.84 billion) in July. The line will pass through the main port of Aden, to Oman, where it will join a network linking the six Gulf Cooperation Council states
GCC train could hit 350kph
18 Jan 10, The National
Passengers using a pan-GCC railway due for completion in 2017 could be whisked along at 350kph under a proposal for a super-high-speed network stretching from Kuwait through the UAE and on to Oman.
Contracts for GCC rail project seen in Dec 2010
18 Jan 10, Arabian Business
Contracts for a multi-billion dollar GCC rail project are set to be awarded by the end of this year with the project fully operational by as early as 2016, it was reported on Monday. The rail plan, which could cost up to $25bn, has been declared financially feasible by all member states, according to Dr Ramiz Al Assar, senior chief representative, GCC Secretariat General.
Qatar: Dukhan Highway project to be completed this year
17 Jan 10, The Peninsula
The multi-million riyal Dukhan Highway project will be completed by the end of this year. A works of major part of the project would be accomplished by June-July, Al Sharq reported.
Iran: Qom metro project gets underway
17 Jan 10, Tehran Times
The construction of subway in the central city of Qom started on Friday. The first line of the subway to the length of 13.5 kilometers would cost 9.4 trillion rials (around $940 million) to be completed within five years, the Islamic Republic of Iran News Network reported.
Iraq: $19.6million for roads, bridges projects in Karbala
16 Jan 10, Aswat al-Iraq
Forty-Nine roads and bridges projects were finalized in Karbala with a total cost of around $19.6 million, a member of the Karbala Provincial Council said on Saturday.
Kuwait: Al-Jahra road facelift at KD343mln - Al Mansour
16 Jan 10, KUNA
Assistant Deputy of Road Engineering Affairs at Labor Ministry Eng. Hussain Al-Mansour announced a 343 million Kuwaiti dinar (kd) project to develop Al-Jahra road to start next July.
Municipality of Abu Dhabi City proceeds with the implementation and operation of pedestrian bridge elevators
14 Jan 10, UAE Interact
The Municipality of Abu Dhabi City proceeds with the installation of a number of modern elevators to some pedestrian bridges in the main traffic detour areas on Al Salam Street, specifically within the Tourist Club zone near the city centre.
UAE marks $2.9bln for infrastructure in 2010
14 Jan 10, Maktoob Business
The UAE has earmarked just about a third of its 2010 budget - 10.7 billion dirhams ($2.9 billion) - to infrastructure projects, daily newspaper Gulf News reported on Thursday. "The infrastructure budget for the UAE is dedicated mainly to core infrastructure spending, particularly in the areas of road and transport and public utilities, including power and desalination as well as waste facilities and management
Work on UAE's highest road project on track
14 Jan 10, Trade Arabia
Construction works of the 36-kilometre long road to the top of Jebel Jais mountain in Ras Al Khaimah, the highest point in the UAE, is on track.
SR50m contracts signed for new projects in Makkah
13 Jan 10, Arab News
The Makkah municipality has signed two contracts with two national companies at the value of SR50 million for the construction of a bridge and the building of walls and steps at various mountains,. The mayor said the first of these project is a bridge to be built in Mahbas Al-Jin residential area at the cost of SR32.3 million
Saudi set to spend $3.16bn on roads in 2010
11 Jan 10, Arabian Business
Saudi Arabia is set to spend some SR11.87bn ($3.16bn) on 6,400km of new roads this year, officials revealed on Sunday. The total spending, which includes surpluses from previous years, will cover 316 road projects in the kingdom, Transport Minister Jebara Al-Seraisry told Arab News.
Saudi Arabia: 6,400km of roads will be constructed in 2010
11 Jan 10, Arab News
New projects to construct 6,400 km of roads will be undertaken in the Kingdom under the current year's budget allocations for the transport sector.
Jordan: 40% of Marj Al Hamam intersection project completed - GAM
11 Jan 10, Jordan Times
The Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) has completed 40 per cent of the Marj Al Hamam- Jabal Arafat intersection project, according to a GAM statement released on Sunday.
Iraq: $196m fresh road to facelift north eastern Arbil
10 Jan 10, Aswat al-Iraq
A sum of 231.280 billion Iraqi dinars ($196 million) were appropriated to build a road serving the local residents and refreshing tourism in northeastern Arbil, according to Governor Nawzad Hadi on Sunday
Al Ain moves to reduce congestion in school zone
07 Jan 10, Gulf News
Al Ain Municipality on Wednesday launched a plan to alleviate the growing traffic problem in the city's private schools zone. The roads in the zone will be redesigned and the roundabouts will be replaced with signal-controlled interchanges
Al Dhafra flyover will ensure better traffic flow
07 Jan 10, Gulf News
The Municipality of Abu Dhabi has opened the Al Dhafra flyover, at interchange number 18, for a free flow of traffic in both directions from Musaffah to Al Ain and from Al Mafraq to Tarif.
New Road Relief to Ajman Residents
07 Jan 10, Khaleej Times
Ajman residents and visitors will finally breathe a sigh of relief following the construction of a branch (filter) road at the roundabout located in front of Coral Beach hotel, Mohamed Al Awadi, director of the roads and infrastructure department at Ajman Municipality
Qatar: South Madinat Khalifa Street project in final stage
10 Jan 10, The Peninsula
The South Madinat Khalifa Street project has entered its final stage. The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) is expected to open the road in April 2011, Al Sharq reported.
UAE sees 10% drop in road deaths in 2009
06 Jan 10, Arabian Business
Traffic cops in Dubai have announced a 10 percent drop in the number of fatalities on the roads in the UAE, compared to figures for the previous year. Officials said the reduction was down to tougher enforcement of traffic regulations and the introduction of a points system for offenders
Iraq: 2 bridges completed in Amara
05 Jan 10, Aswat al-Iraq
An Iraqi firm completed two bridges in central Amara city at a total cost of around $35.6 million.
Kuwait: Jaber Bridge tender opens for bids today
04 Jan 10, Kuwait Times
The Ministry of Public Works has reached agreement on the Jaber Bridge Project, with bidding on the project, which is set to cost between KD 650 million and KD 750 million, set to open today and remain open for a six-month period
Qatar eyes GPS technology to warn of traffic jams
04 Jan 10, Arabian Business
Traffic chiefs in Qatar are turning to GPS technology in an effort to warn motorists of traffic jams ahead, it was reported on Monday.
$25bn GCC rail project tenders to float in Q1 2010
03 Jan 10, Arabian Business
Tenders for the GCC's proposed $25bn regional rail network are set to be floated in the first quarter of 2010, according to comments from a senior official of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
Abu Dhabi to select rail consultant
02 Jan 10, AME Info
Abu Dhabi's Department of Transport will hold meetings with selected bidders in mid January for a feasibility study of the emirate's proposed tram system.
GCC eyes $109bn rail investment in next 10 years
31 Dec 09, Arabian Business
GCC nations are planning to invest $109bn on rail projects in the next 10 years as officials look to solve traffic congestion issues, according to a new report by Kuwait Financial Centre (Markaz).
UAE's non-oil trade seen growing 10% in 2009
15 Dec 09, Arabian Business
The UAE's non-oil trade is set to grow by 10 percent in 2009 as the country continues to diversify its economy, a senior official has said. Sheikha Lubna Al-Qassimi, the UAE's Minister of Foreign Trade, said non-oil sectors currently account for 63 percent of the country's gross domestic product and has been growing dramatically over recent years.
Union Railway preparing first contracts
12 Dec 09, The National
Union Railway expects to award its first construction contracts by the end of next year for a 1,300km network spanning the Emirates, its new chief executive said.
Abu Dhabi to award $7b in contracts
10 Dec 09, Gulf News
Abu Dhabi is expected to award $7 billion (Dh25 billion) worth of construction contracts this month, amidst the continuing progress of many developments which are attracting contractors and investors alike.
More paid for parking spaces in Abu Dhabi next year
10 Dec 09, Arabian Business
A further 3,725 paid for car parking spaces will be introduced in Abu Dhabi during the first quarter of next year as part of the capital’s major parking scheme
Abu Dhabi Airport Road widening in full steam
3 Nov 09, Gulf News
The Dh195 million upgrading project aiming to improve the traffic intake of the street to 9,200 vehicles per hour, is scheduled to be completed by December 2010.
RAK to expand taxi fleet, replace old cars
2 Nov 09, Gulf News
All old taxis will be discontinued from service and replaced with new cars.
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