Held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs
Held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs
Qatar’s pipeline of futuristic projects is already stacked, and the latest in the lineup is the Sharq Crossing.
What makes it so special? It’s going to be a highway that dives straight under the Arabian Gulf.
The latest updates have revealed Qatar’s aims to continue the Sharq Crossing project, with an estimated cost of approximately USD2 billion. This massive initiative will be overseen by the Qatar Public Works Authority, Ashghal.
The route is set to connect Hamad International Airport, Katara Cultural Village, Lusail City and West Bay through an on-water and underwater road tunnel.
Now, let’s get into the good stuff. We’ve got the scroop on the project’s history, the expected completion date, and most importantly, how it’s going to transform Doha.
(Credit: Qatar’s Public Works Authority, Ashghal)
What is the history of Sharq Crossing?
The project began over a decade ago, originally under the name “Doha Bay Crossing.”
It was first announced in December 2013 and by the following year, Ashghal was already prequalifying contractors. Ashghal had said the Sharq Crossing was “one of the most ambitious engineering projects ever undertaken in the Middle East” and we absolutely can see why.
The design was by the world-renowned Spanish architect and structural engineer, Santiago Calatrava, who developed the plans at the request of Qatar’s Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Urban Planning.
After a period of planning, the project got a major boost in 2019 when Qatar’s national budget proposed its relaunch. That same year, under the directives of H.E. Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani, Ashghal invited local companies to form alliances with international firms, to begin planning for the next phase of the project.
The initial goal was to have the crossing open by 2021 and proposed to be three scaffolds spanning between 600 meters and 1,310 meters, connecting Doha’s Hamad International Airport with the Katara Cultural Village and West Bay.
Qatar is steadily growing with futuristic infrastructure projects, and the Sharq Crossing is one of those projects the country is eager to see become a reality.
When can we expect the Sharq Crossing project to be completed?
As for the all-important completion date, that key detail is still awaiting an official announcement.
The ambitious vision has evolved into a significant 12-kilometre structure comprising three major bridges. It is part of Qatar’s broader portfolio of visionary megaprojects that together are shaping the nation’s future, both economically and infrastructurally.
How will the crossing change Doha?
The Sharq Crossing is about to turn Doha’s Corniche traffic mornings into a thing of the past. It will make the city more connected than ever, letting you arrive in West Bay, Katara, or Lusail in just minutes.
And if you’re flying into the country, your first welcome to city won’t just be from the people but the aquatic life. Now that’s a first impression.
Source: TimeOut Doha
Qatar’s construction market is projected to grow to QAR 158.05 billion by 2029, driven by major infrastructure, energy, and urban development projects.
Qatar’s construction market is expected to maintain its robust expansion, driven by major infrastructure projects in transportation, housing, and energy, according to new market research.
A report by Research and Markets forecasts the sector could be worth up to QAR 158.05 billion ($43.4 billion) by 2029, up from QAR 127.88 billion ($35.1 billion) in 2025. This follows a compound annual growth rate of 2.5 percent from 2020 to 2024, supported by a steady pipeline of large-scale developments.
The firm’s separate analysis of Qatar’s construction equipment market projects an increase of almost 1,000 units by 2030, from 4,039 units in 2024, citing economic recovery and significant government investment in industrial facilities.
Much of the sector’s momentum is tied to the Third National Development Strategy, which aims to cement Qatar’s leadership in energy while diversifying its economy.
This strategy relies heavily on new infrastructure, from urban expansion to industrial capacity building.
In May, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) announced its largest-ever programme – a QAR 81 billion ($22.2 billion) five-year plan running from 2025 to 2029.
It aims to “transform national infrastructure” with major investments in water systems, urban development, transportation, and government facilities.
Parallel to this, Qatar is advancing its North Field expansion to boost liquefied natural gas (LNG) output by more than 63 percent, adding 48 million tonnes per annum to global supply through agreements with companies including TotalEnergies, Eni, ConocoPhillips, Shell, and ExxonMobil.
The Transportation Master Plan 2050, featuring 86 highway schemes and the Doha Metro expansion, is also expected to contribute significantly to construction growth.
Rising investment linked to tourism and increased foreign capital inflows are further strengthening the market outlook.
Source: Doha News
Over a period of 30 months, the project will overhaul the nation’s transportation landscape as it continues to strike a balance between Qatar’s rapid urban growth and its commitment to sustainability.
The QPTMP will bypass conventional frameworks, strategically guiding the evolution of the transit system to address challenges associated with escalating vehicular dependency, congestion, and environmental impact. Designed to serve a diverse audience, including policymakers, government officials, developers, investors, consultants, engineers, and planners, the plan will equip those stakeholders with actionable frameworks and guidelines for effective planning, design, implementation, and operation of public transit services. The plan will also encompass prescriptive policies, laws and regulations, accompanied by a robust monitoring program for integrated and comprehensive solutions.
Dr. Muhammad Mustafa, Regional Director – Mobility and Planning, Egis in the Middle East & South Asia, said, “As global mobility systems evolve in response to urbanization, Qatar stands at the forefront of adaptability, therefore, we are honoured to partner with the Ministry of Transport to craft a transport ecosystem that reflects their vivid ambitions. By uniting visionary leadership with our comprehensive expertise, we aim to create integrated networks that bridge people, places, and possibilities, whilst serving as the backbone of sustainable growth and societal advancement. Our team’s legacy spans the entire lifecycle of transport innovation – from ideation to operational excellence – therefore, we are more than ready to deliver transport infrastructure solutions rooted in precision and scalability.”
The QPTMP’s ripple effects will have far-reaching societal and environmental benefits, supporting healthier lifestyles, fostering economic vitality, and mitigating the ecological footprint of urban expansion through reducing carbon emissions utilizing smarter transit solutions and rubber-stamping Qatar’s commitment to sustainability.
Source: Construction Week Middle East
Qatar’s Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has launched its most ambitious five-year plan to date, unveiling infrastructure investments worth over QR81 billion ($22.2 billion). Spanning the period from 2025 to 2029, the programme covers a wide array of sectors, from urban infrastructure and government buildings to advanced sewage systems and sustainable water management.
Engineer Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al Meer, President of Ashghal, described the plan as the largest in the authority’s history, both in terms of investment volume and the number of projects.
Transforming Public Infrastructure
A key focus of the plan is the development of integrated infrastructure designed to enhance the urban environment and quality of life.
This includes the construction of government buildings that will support vital sectors such as healthcare, education, sports, and culture. The design approach is informed by the ‘humanisation of cities’ concept, aiming to make urban spaces more liveable and community-oriented.
Tackling Flooding and Water Reuse
The programme also addresses pressing environmental challenges through the implementation of cutting-edge sewage and rainwater drainage systems. These include the development of strategic tunnels, pumping stations, treatment facilities, and home connections.
One of the flagship projects is a large-scale sustainable rainwater drainage system in northern and southern Doha. Planned in coordination with the Ministry of Municipality and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, the project will be executed in two phases—main tunnelling works beginning this year, followed by sub-tunnelling in early 2026. Treated rainwater will be repurposed for irrigation and cooling applications.
Empowering the Private Sector Through PPPs
To enhance private sector involvement, Ashghal is rolling out several projects under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. Chief among them is the infrastructure development for over 5,500 residential plots. These works include internal road networks, sewage systems, treated water infrastructure, landscaping, and street lighting.
Additionally, the second phase of the wastewater treatment plant in Al Wakra and Al Wukair is being considered for tender under a PPP framework.
Stimulating Growth in the Contracting Sector
Recognising the importance of the contracting sector to national development, Ashghal has committed QR21 billion in financial and regulatory support.
This includes direct payments, burden-relief measures, extended contract durations, and new rules allowing bank guarantees in place of maintenance reserves. The measures aim to help companies recover from the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and stabilise the market.
Boosting Local Content and Economic Self-Reliance
Progress has also been reported in Ashghal’s local value programme (ICV), which seeks to increase reliance on local suppliers.
Since 2022, the number of registered local companies has risen from 201 to 733. The share of contracts awarded to local suppliers has surged from 10% to 77%, while non-renewal rates for certification have dropped from 47% to 11%. ICV scoring has soared from 3,024 to over 23,447 points.
Driving Digital Innovation
To improve operational efficiency, Ashghal has introduced a digital initiative to automate financial data submissions by service providers. This centralised database reduces administrative burdens, accelerates tendering, and enables real-time monitoring of contractor performance.
Looking ahead, Ashghal is also advancing its ‘smart contracts’ initiative. By integrating digital technologies into contract management, the authority aims to enhance transparency, cut costs, and reduce manual intervention—aligning with Qatar’s broader vision of innovation and sustainability.
In line with its evolving strategy, Ashghal will soon unveil a refreshed corporate identity reflecting its long-term goals under the 2024–2030 corporate strategy. This transformation aligns with Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy and its overarching National Vision 2030.
Source: MEP Middle East
Qatar's construction sector is experiencing an unprecedented growth phase, as government-led infrastructure projects, private sector investments, and large-scale developments continue to fuel its expansion.
With ambitious construction projects and increasing demand for infrastructure development, Qatar's construction market is projected to surpass $69 billion by 2025, signaling a promising outlook for the nation's economy and positioning it as a major player in global infrastructure development.
Projected Growth in Qatar's Construction Sector: $69 Billion by 2025: According to Mordor Intelligence, Qatar's construction market is anticipated to reach $68.7 billion (QR 250.64 billion) in 2025, with growth continuing into the next decade.
Projections suggest that by 2030, the market will grow to approximately $106.33 billion (QR 387.92 billion), reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.13 percent from 2025 through 2030. This growth is a direct result of strategic planning, government spending, and investments in both infrastructure and sustainable development.
Government’s Role in Infrastructure Expansion: Qatar's construction growth is underpinned by its government's ambitious infrastructure goals, which align with the National Vision 2030. Since hosting the FIFA World Cup 2022, Qatar has accelerated its development plans, with a clear focus on building a diversified economy supported by robust infrastructure.
The Third National Development Strategy (NDS3) has laid out a roadmap for socio-economic development that includes projects across transportation, urban development, and industrial sectors. As a result, government spending on infrastructure projects is expected to be a major contributor to the construction market's growth. The 2025 national budget has allocated QR 197 billion for new projects, including road construction, metro systems, airports, hospitals, and educational facilities. These investments are designed to attract both domestic and foreign private sector investment.
Source: CEO Today
Doha, Qatar, 6 October 2024: Qatar's construction industry is on the brink of significant expansion, with forecasts predicting a $123.1 billion surge by 2030, driven by 9.5% CAGR and robust government investments (Source: QNB Daily Market Report). In this dynamic economic environment, Big 5 Construct Qatar and INDEX Design Qatar are making a much-anticipated return to Doha, offering a premier platform that brings together construction, architecture and design professionals.
The events take place under the Patronage of The Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman Bin Jassim Al Thani. Scheduled from 13 - 15 October at Doha Exhibition & Convention Centre (DECC), Big 5 Construct Qatar will connect over 10,000 industry professionals with manufacturers, suppliers and service providers, presenting opportunities for both local and international stakeholders to explore new business avenues in this flourishing market.
dmg events, a leading organizer of face-to-face events, has teamed up with Qatar-based NeXTfairs to co-host the events alongside Cityscape Qatar. Together the events provide attendees with the resources necessary to bring projects from concept to completion, covering the full construction, real estate and design value chain.
Muhammed Kazi, Senior Vice President - Construction at dmg events, said: "As Qatar's construction industry rapidly expands, driven by Vision 2030 and substantial infrastructure investments, this event provides a unique platform to showcase and explore cutting-edge
technologies and solutions. We invite construction, design and engineering professionals to join us in Doha and seize the opportunities within Qatar's construction sector.”
Rawad Sleem, Co-Founder and General Manager of NeXTfairs, said: “This event is a vital platform for collaboration and innovation in the construction industry, supported by the esteemed patronage of His Excellency, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman Bin Jassim Al Thani, and we are highly appreciative and thankful for the patronage and support of His Excellency. His consistent support is evidence of the ongoing impact that the event has had in strengthening industry recovery and growth. We are also grateful to key supporters like Ministry of Commerce and Industry and Visit Qatar, Ashghal Public Works Authority, QNB and Qatar Development Bank for their invaluable contributions. As Qatar's construction sector evolves with significant infrastructure investments, this event provides a unique opportunity for professionals to connect, share insights, and explore the latest technologies, fostering a spirit of collaboration to advance the industry.”
Convening regional and international brands at Big 5 Construct Qatar
At Big 5 Construct Qatar, visitors can explore a comprehensive range of products, services, solutions and systems, including concrete and cement, construction tools and PPE, marble and stone and modular construction. The exhibition will also spotlight HVAC and refrigeration systems, MEP services, windows, doors and building envelopes.
Big 5 Construct Qatar will feature country pavilions from China, Egypt, Italy and Türkiye, along with participation from a diverse range of nations, including Bahrain, Finland, France, India, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and others. Exhibitors at the event include HBK Contracting Company, Platinum Sponsor of the event, renowned for developing world-class arenas; Himalaya Steel, providers of premium steel products; Q Terminals, a key player in managing Qatar's import and export operations; and Al Hattab Holding, specialists in engineering and construction materials.
Commenting on their participation, Sheikh Ali Bin Hamad K Al Thani, President, HBK Contracting Company said: “At HBK Contracting Company we are thrilled to be associated with Big 5 Construct Qatar in 2024. Supporting and participating in the exhibition is critical for the group, as we continue to build on our success in the construction and engineering industry, having contributed to the development of some of the large-scale, mega projects in the country.”
In addition to the exhibition, Big 5 Construct Qatar will host a series of CPD-certified Big 5 Talks and INDEX Design Qatar will feature the Design Talks, providing valuable insights on architecture, project management, sustainability and more. Industry leaders will discuss the sector's opportunities and challenges, offering attendees a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape.
Index Design Qatar connects the interior design industry
Designers, hotel outfitters, retailers, wholesalers, distributors and fit-out contractors, will discover specialized offerings in various categories at INDEX Design Qatar. These include decorative accessories and lighting, furniture, textiles, outdoor furnishings, sleep products, art, office interiors, flooring solutions, kitchen and bathroom fixtures, building finishes and urban design elements. This comprehensive showcase provides industry buyers with a diverse range of high-quality products and innovative solutions for their projects.
Exhibitors at Index Qatar include Palazzo Morelli, an Italian finishing contractor specializing in surfaces, furniture, and interior design; Vada Stone Design, a leader in stone innovation; Royal Art, known for 3D-printed home décor; Cristellerie De Montbronn, masters of crystal tableware; and Al Rugaib Furniture, a provider of world-class furniture.
“This diverse representation of both regional and international companies underscores Big 5 Construct Qatar and INDEX Design Qatar’s commitment to connecting industry professionals with innovations and solutions, driving growth and advancement in Qatar's booming construction, architecture and design sectors,” concluded Kazi.
Big 5 Construct Qatar and Index Design Qatar are supported by Ministry of Commerce and Industry and Visit Qatar; Official Partner, Ashghal Public Works Authority; Official Bank Sponsor, QNB; Development Partner, Qatar Development Bank; Platinum Sponsor, HBK Contracting Company; Gold Sponsor, Al Attiyah Architectural Group Holding and Supporting Association, Lean Construction Institute and CIOB.
Registration is now open with free admission to trade and industry professionals over the age of 18. For more information and to register, visit big5constructionqatar.com and index-qatar.com.
About Big 5 Construct Qatar
Big 5 Construct Qatar is Qatar’s largest construction event bringing together local and international companies to showcase products & services, innovation, expertise and knowledge to the Qatari construction industry. Part of Big 5, the world’s largest and most comprehensive portfolio of construction events, Big 5 Construct Qatar offers visitors an opportunity to connect with 10,000 industry professionals and find the right products & solutions from over 250 international and local exhibitors as well as earn free CPD points through a curated talks programme.
About INDEX Design Qatar
INDEX Design Qatar is a part of the INDEX portfolio of events, the largest being INDEX Dubai, which boasts a 30-year legacy. Tens of thousands of industry professionals attend these events each year to connect with global brands and manufacturers to discover the next big thing in interior design.
About dmg events
dmg events is a leading organizer of face-to-face events and publisher of trade magazines and information services. Our aim is to create dynamic marketplaces to connect businesses with the right communities to accelerate their growth in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. With a presence in over 25 countries and organizing more than 80 events each year, dmg events is a global leader in the industry. Attracting over 425,000 attendees and delegates annually, we organize events in the construction, hospitality, interiors & design, energy, coatings, entertainment, and transportation sectors.
To better serve our customers, dmg events has offices in 10 countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, South Africa, the UK, Canada, and Singapore. By being on the ground, we can better understand market needs and nurture relationships to create unforgettable experiences for our attendees. Our flagship events include Big 5 Global, The Hotel Show, INDEX, ADIPEC and Gastech. For more information visit www.dmgevents.com. Founded in 1989, dmg events is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Daily Mail and General Trust plc DMGT, www.dmgt.co.uk
About NeXTFairs
NeXTFairs is a versatile event organizer with years of experience in delivering top-tier services. Backed by a team of seasoned professionals, they offer comprehensive event management solutions for B2B and B2C sectors. Their mission is to position Qatar as a premier destination for global conferences, exhibitions, and events. NeXTFairs is dedicated to creating engaging programs that highlight Qatar's potential for world-class business events, earning a reputation for excellence and delivering exceptional value to clients.
For more information:
Nesrine Mansour Kobeissi
Email: nesrinemk@flavorspr.com
Mobile: +974-55623103
Doha, Qatar: Analysts in the country have noted an upswing trajectory growth for the construction sector in Qatar this year. The industry is estimated to surge by 4.40 percent and is expected to amount to QR133.5m in 2024, as per a recent report by Researches and Markets.
Amidst growing challenges in the region, the medium to long-term growth story in Qatar “remains intact”, the report said. However, in the next four quarters leading up to 2025, the construction market will be boosted and grow steadily.
According to the experts, the momentum will further increase in the years ahead, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4 percent from 2024 until 2028. Meanwhile, the construction output in Qatar is anticipated to total QR154.2m in the next four years.
The market intelligence report offered an explicit view of Qatar’s opportunities in the building and infrastructure construction sector, which is poised for higher demand.The report further states that the growth dynamics in building and infrastructure construction in addition to construction cost structure analysis by key areas in Qatar look optimistic.
On the other hand, experts state that there is a growing demand for opportunities for investors to explore rising new projects in the country.
However, the residential construction outlook offers a solid market analysis with ongoing developments across the countries as the price value, volume, and number of units grew significantly as compared to 2023.
During its previous edition of the report, researchers believed that the construction residential sector would amount to $12.39bn this year and is expected to total $21.39bn by 2029, signaling a CAGR of 11.45 percent during the period.
Qatar is one of the swiftly growing economies in the region with a high GDP rate, population, and employment opportunities as the governmental regulations are the key driving factor of the sector.
The country is enhancing its infrastructure and industrial projects in line with the national strategy vision and Asian Games 2030, after hosting a spectacular FIFA 2022.
With the rising foreign direct investments, the residential realty sector witnessed a boom in Qatar.
Several reports note that expatriates and foreign businesspersons invested in many real estate projects, including the West Bay Lagoon and The Pearl.
Key realty players in the market contributing towards the enhancing sector and Qatari economy are Al Mana Real Estate, United Development Company, Qatari Diar Real Estate Company, Ezdan Holdings, and Barwa Real Estate Company.
Source Credit: The Peninsula
The UAE, Iraq, Qatar and Türkiye, have signed an agreement for a strategic road project that is designed to bolster economic growth and promote regional and international cooperation by fostering economic integration, a report said.
The quadrilateral Memorandum of Understanding for cooperation on the road development project was signed on April 22, in the presence of Iraq's Prime Minister Muhammed S Al Sudani and President of Türkiye Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Emirates News Agency, WAM, said.
The MOU was signed by Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Iraq's Minister of Transport Razzaq Muhibis, Türkiye’s Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, and Qatar's Minister of Transport, Jassim bin Saif Al Sulaiti.
"The outlines for the framework of implementing the Development Road project aim to stimulate economic growth and enhance regional and international cooperation through economic integration. It seeks to create a sustainable economy bridging East and West, increase international trade, facilitate movement and commerce, establish a new competitive transport route, and bolster regional economic prosperity,” said a statement from the PM Office.
The $17 billion project aims to create a land route and railway extending from Iraq to Turkiye and its ports.The road and the railway within Iraq are 1,200km long for the transport of goods between Europe and the Gulf countries.
The project is expected to be carried out in three phases; the first to be completed in 2028, the second in 2033, and the third in 2050, a Qatar Ministry of Transport statement said.
Source Credit: Trade Arabia
As per the country’s budget announced in 2021, projects worth $14.80bln were identified, while these infrastructure-related projects were expected to be awarded from 2021 to 2023
Doha, Qatar: Qatar’s construction sector is anticipated to reach $62.95bn (QR229.19bn) in 2024 and is expected to amount to $97.42bn (QR354.68bn) by 2029, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.13 percent during the forecast period.
The report also mentioned that Dentons, a global law firm operating in Qatar listed ‘The Blue Line’, as an expansion of the existing Doha Metro network.
This will be carried out as part of the second phase of the expansion of the Doha Metro Project.
“The second of these projects, the multibillion-dollar Sharq Bridge, will likely construct a three-part bridge with underwater tunnels joining it to connect Katara Cultural Village to Hamad International Airport. Dentons was ranked as the fourth-largest law company in the world by revenue for the fiscal year 2021, with gross sales of $2.9bn (QR10.56bn)”, it reported.
Over the past decade, Doha has swiftly enhanced its infrastructure due to the hosting of global events, making Qatar one of the most sought-after travel hubs in the region.
The major highlights of the well-built infrastructure include cutting-edge highways, stadiums, a metro system, and universities among others.
Analysts at the portal noted that the government’s vital contribution in boosting the construction sector’s growth is the key to global success.
As per the country’s budget announced in 2021, projects worth QR53.9bn ($14.80bn) were identified, while these infrastructure-related projects were expected to be awarded from 2021 to 2023.
However, Qatar’s government aims to develop infrastructure and diversify the economy and has taken initiatives to open economic free zones attracting corporations from across the globe.
The report underscored that “The endorsement of new laws regulating public-private partnerships (PPPs) is expected to attract private sector investment in developing infrastructure, educational institutes, and healthcare projects, hence supporting industry growth during the forecast period.”
It further elucidates that the projects and investments carried out in the transportation sector will also foster growth during the forecast period.
On the other hand, Qatar’s centralises its focus on developing into a more significant global transportation
hub.
“The Qatari government has identified several urgent projects for the medium term, earmarking QR54bn ($15bn) for these. In the second quarter of 2021, spending on major infrastructure projects totaled QR15bn ($4bn), or 20.8 percent of the state’s spending budget,” the report added.
Research and Markets in its latest report underscored that Qatar’s various commitments including hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, envisioning National Vision 2030, and its ambition to host the Asian Games in 2030, driving the country towards an impressive array of infrastructure and industrial projects.
Other initiatives such as the 2050 Transport Plan offer Qatar - 22 new projects worth a total of $2.7bn (QR9.83bn), which was announced last year.
Source credit: Zawya
