Dec 5 2009
UAE Infrastructure Projects Require Improved Planning, Design and Construction Methods to Improve Performance.
The recent economic downturn caused a decline in new construction projects led by developers, but the massive increase in public spending that followed has resulted in both new road infrastructure projects and redesign to existing projects.
The increasing emphasis on improving the UAE's infrastructure during the slowdown will not only provide the opportunity to improve and consolidate existing networks, but also to allow strategic development into other regions and trade centers. Dubai Ministry of Public Works is developing road networks into rural areas to enhance development opportunities and to improve access into rural communities uniting the nation.
Many of the GCC state's existing road infrastructure problems can be linked to the previous requirement to keep up with the pace of rapid growth, within both residential and commercial property development. The initiative to improve the existing network is a dedicated effort to prepare the UAE for the next period of growth.
Abu Dhabi is leading the way with an improved approach to planning and design with the 2030 plan. Many new and regionally innovative initiatives are being implemented to ensure that civic growth and infrastructure grow hand in hand. Effective planning and load calculation are essential to reduce costly and disruptive redesign and improvement works.
The demand for cost-efficient, effective and timely delivery of road projects is high, but the region presents a number of unique challenges in terms of geography climate and culture. The project team that can achieve great results needs technical understanding and an ability to integrate the planning and design with local culture and needs. By selecting the right materials and methods, they can produce a solution that is fit-for-purpose for future network load requirements.
The opportunity to improve learning and best practice approaches can be taken from the region's mega road project experiences. The King Abdullah highway in Saudi Arabia, Northern Highway Qatar, Salam Street and Mina Road Development Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Parallel Road Project Dubai and the E22 Road Abu Dhabi to Al Ain projects will all be showcased at the IQPC Road Planning, Design and Construction 2010 summit in Dubai.
IQPC's Road Planning, Design and Construction 2010 is one of a series of infrastructure events that focuses on providing a platform for regional and international excellence. The event will explore the top 5 GCC road projects, including new road networks and improvements to existing road infrastructure. This unique, industry-led conference provides a platform where the latest challenges to the planning, design and construction of roads can be resolved by key stakeholders, including clients, consultants and contractors.
Source: http://www.iqpc.com/redHome.aspx?region=middleeast