Dubai-based Arabtec Construction, a leading contracting firm for social and economic infrastructure projects, has won a major contract worth Dh169 million ($46 million) to complete 29,000 sq m of public space at Expo 2020 Dubai, a media report said.
The contract includes building a 5,000-sq-m water park, restaurants, utilities and landscaping. The company will start work immediately, reported a news agency. Located next to Expo 2020’s iconic centrepiece, Al Wasl Plaza, the public spaces will provide millions from around the world an opportunity to relax, enjoy a meal and take part in the activities.
Ahmed Al Khatib, chief site delivery officer – Real Estate and Delivery, Expo 2020 Dubai, said, "As the first World Expo to take place in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region, Expo 2020 represents an incredible commercial opportunity for UAE companies. By collaborating with industry leaders, we aim to deliver a world-class destination, with public areas that complement the Expo’s immersive visitor experience, while creating a positive economic impact for our nation."
Hamish Tyrwhitt, group chief executive officer, Arabtec Holding, noted, "We are pleased to be awarded our third major project as part of the Expo masterplan. This award further demonstrates our core competency in the infrastructure sector."
UAE-based companies are playing a leading role in the construction of Expo 2020 Dubai. Other UAE firms working on the project, including Al-Futtaim Construction, Al Naboodah Construction, Besix, Khansaheb and Tristar Engineering, are making major contributions towards the delivery of World Expo’s 4.38-sq-km site.
In line with its theme of ‘Connecting Minds, Creating the Future’, Expo 2020 expects to welcome some 25 million visitors between 20 October, 2020 and 10 April, 2021. It is expected that 70 percent of its visitors are to come from outside the UAE – the largest ratio of international visitors in the 168-year history of World Expos.