Project Qatar 2011 was inaugurated recently by HE Sheikh Abdul Rahman Bin Khalifa Al Thani Minister of Municipal Affairs and Urban Planning, opening a new and exciting chapter for the countrys biggest construction and building trade show.
The opening ceremony was also attended by senior government officials, members of the diplomatic bodies and senior businessmen from Qatar and the world.
With more than US$140 billion in projects already underway and a further boom expected as a result of preparations for the 2022 World Cup, the four-day 8th edition of Qatar's largest exhibition for construction technology, building material, heavy equipment, will be supporting Qatar's ambitious infrastructure program for the next decade.
The 1,700 exhibitors from across the world are housed in the Doha Exhibition Centre as well as two purpose built temporary structures housing 16 country-specific pavilions. The event is showcasing the latest in innovative, environmentally friendly building and construction techniques and equipment, while millions of dollars in contracts will be signed over the course of the show.
"Qatar 2022 was a game changer for the already thriving construction industry in the country. Filling the 52,000 sqm exhibition space here in Doha is a direct result of the country's vision under the wise leadership of the Emir His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani," said Rashed Alkaabi, Chairman of IFP Qatar.
"Without this vision and the support from the State of Qatar, the country would not be experiencing the extraordinary growth it has seen over the past few years."
Mr Alkaabi said: "Our aim is to become a strategic venue and platform for companies, government agencies and individuals to talk about the latest issues in the industry and act as a launching pad for new products and services."
A key focus of Project Qatar 2011 will be the 12 stadia needed for the 2022 world Cup. Plans are on the drawing board for US$ 4 billion for constructing nine stadiums and renovating three existing ones ? all adhering to strict sustainability and environmental guidelines.
"All eyes are on Qatar as it sets out its preparations for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with infrastructure projects amounting to over $140 billion over the next 12 years. Project Qatar 2011 sets out to give the region a prime venue for industry players to meet, create and reinforce business ties," said IFP Group President Albert Aoun.
Michele Gebreal, Project Manager, Project Qatar 2011 said, "this year sees companies and organizations from all over the world highlight the most innovative and forward thinking technologies. Also being showcased at the event are sustainable building practices, waste water solutions, electricity and power solutions."
"'The Qatari economy was not only able to show resilience to the global economic downturn, it continued to provide enormous opportunities as the government went ahead with its infrastructure investment plans in line with its National Vision 2030 with a focus on sustainability," Gabreal said.
Also held simultaneously with Project Qatar is Heavy Max 2011- the international trade exhibition for heavy machinery which decorates the entrance of the exhibition center with its statuesque colorful cranes and hoists.
The Doha Exhibition Centre (DEC), Project Qatar plays host to more than 1,700 exhibitors and companies from nearly 50 countries. This year's exhibition is the biggest ever with 52,000 sqm of exhibition space, with an additional 30,000 sqm temporary structures added specifically for the event.
