Tourism projects driving Qatar construction

Qatar’s construction sector is surging ahead despite a limited demand for real estate due to the government’s drive to push tourism, education and industry developments.

“Since Qatar is a smaller market it has been less affected by the downturn, which is why the market is still going ahead,” said Clyde & Co associate Sean Magee, speaking on the sidelines of the Construction Week Qatar Briefing 2009 in Doha.

“Speculation has been a major factor that has affected a lot of other GCC states, but Qatar has almost escaped that.”

Projects in Qatar,which are being developed by government-owned developers including Qatari Diar and sister concern Barwa, are going ahead despite the downturn adding confidence to the construction market, conference delegates heard.

Khalid Abdulla Al Hitmi, project manager for Barwa Village, Barwa said: “There are many government projects revolving around tourism, medical, education, infrastructure and industry that are ongoing.

“For example, look at Energy City and Education City that are under construction at the moment. They’re huge projects. Even Lusail, which is a city in itself, is going to become the regional industrial hub.”

Other massive current projects in Qatar include The Pearl Qatar, overlooking the West Bay area of Doha, and the New Doha International Airport that is expected to be completed in 2012.

From an architectural point-of-view, Steven Miller, managing director of American design firm FXFowle, said low population growth had restricted demand for real estate in Qatar.

He added that design quality in the Emir state was more consistent than the rest of the region.

“Because of the limited population the demand is limited,” he said. “For every 1m2 of commercial area, you need 6m2 to 7m2 of residential space.

“The city of Doha and its suburbia are now almost in equilibrium. Therefore you need unique environments including universities, medical facilities and tourism opportunities.

He continued: “Design work is of more consistent quality and finish than other GCC locations and the future urban planning seems consistent and sustainable.”

The conference was held today at the Grand Hyatt in the Qatar capital of Doha.