15 May 2014
Project Qatar 2014 has organised an "exclusive tour" for its exhibitors, to explore some of the major projects taking place in Qatar.

These include presentations and a site visit to Lusail City, Doha Metro, and Msheireb Downtown Doha. The tour enabled the exhibitors to get first-hand information about the progress of and an in-depth look at each project.

The delegates also explored key development projects taking place in Doha with an opportunity for them to promote their products, services, and solutions.

Project Qatar project manager Rawad Sleem said, "Project Qatar is not only an exhibition platform for the construction industry, but an expert facilitator in providing our esteemed exhibitors with the opportunity to visit these mega-projects happening in Qatar and meet with their project managers to discuss potential opportunities."

George Ayache, general manager, IFP Qatar and organiser, Project Qatar, said, "Structural and ecological trends are shaping the construction and infrastructure environment in Qatar. To thrive in this environment, we have invited our exhibitors to meet with the most exciting and compelling projects under construction in Qatar. As part of achieving the Qatar National Vision 2030, these projects are excellent examples of strategy in action."

Exhibitors were given the opportunity to meet with Qatar Rail officials to discuss the Doha Metro, which is an integral part of the Qatar Rail Development Programme. Consisting of four lines, the Doha Metro network will cover the Greater Doha area and connect to Qatar's key locations from town centres and vital commercial and residential areas throughout the city. In central Doha, the Metro will be underground, whilst at the outskirts and suburbs, it will mainly be at ground level or elevated.

The Lusail City project, which extends across an area of 38sq km includes four exclusive islands that will encompass not only new residential, commercial, hospitality, and retail opportunities, but a full array of community needs, complete with schools, mosques, medical facilities, sport, entertainment and shopping centres. It plans to accommodate 200,000 residents, 170,000 employees and it will also welcome over 80,000 visitors.

As part of the strategic presentations, the attendees were briefed on the internal and external designs and latest developments in this world-class project.

Msheireb Downtown Doha aims to transform the centre of the capital city, recreating a way of living that is rooted in Qatari culture. Msheireb is the world's first sustainable downtown regeneration project.

It will revive the old commercial district inspired by traditional Qatari heritage and architecture, but also include a modern architectural element with its simple design and consideration to space, light and climate control. Utilising the latest in sustainable technologies, Msheireb will also adhere to the highest standards in green building.

Exhibitors expressed their admiration on the project's progress. Angelo Alessandroni, general manager, CEMAR, said: "I found the presentations and site tours to be informative, diverse and well-curated. It was an exemplary excursion with fellow delegates and experts across the global construction industry. It was very informative to hear the presenters of the three mega-projects discussing the progress of these complex and high profile developments. In particular, the site tours were absolutely fascinating. These schemes are pushing boundaries with world leading cutting-edge design and solutions."

© Gulf Times 2014