Abu Dhabi Ports Set to Award $50M Al Haffar Souk Contract

The Abu Dhabi Ports Company is poised to award the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract for its Al Haffar Souk (Phase 1) project this month. The $50 million development, situated approximately 60 km east of Abu Dhabi City, is scheduled for completion by the fourth quarter of 2025.

Why this matters: The Al Haffar Souk project's strategic location and focus on trade and commerce will contribute to the growth of Abu Dhabi's economy and enhance its position as a regional hub. The project's successful completion will also have a positive impact on the local community, generating job opportunities and stimulating economic activity.

Spanning an area of around 1,400,000 square meters within the Dhaharat Al Teeb district, the Al Haffar Souk project entails the construction of a multi-trade market with amenities. The scope is split into two main facilities: Facility 1 (Plot 1), which will accommodate carpet shops, furniture shops, food retail, and offices; and Facility 2 (Plot 2), dedicated to plant shops and food retail.

Beyond the market facilities, the project scope encompasses the design and construction of essential infrastructure. This includes access roads, internal road work, plot paving activities, pedestrian crossings, truck and car parking spaces, external storm water infrastructure works, external wastewater work, and potable water works. Additionally, the development will feature an external firewater/firefighting network and the supply, installation, testing, and commissioning of 11/0.4kV substations along with the associated medium voltage network connected to existing primary substations.

A source close to the project revealed, "The tender for the EPC package was issued on 17 November 2023." The bid submission took place on 3 January 2024, paving the way for the contract award in May of the same year.

The Al Haffar Souk project signifies a substantial investment in the region's commercial infrastructure, with the goal of establishing a dynamic and diverse marketplace. Strategically located along the Abu Dhabi – Al Ain Highway, the souk is well-positioned to serve as a hub for trade and commerce, catering to both local residents and visitors.

Abu Dhabi Ports Company is gearing up to award the EPC contract, with the project anticipated to generate significant economic activity and job opportunities throughout its construction phase. The successful completion of Al Haffar Souk (Phase 1) by the fourth quarter of 2025 will mark a significant achievement in the development of the Dhaharat Al Teeb district and contribute to the overall growth of Abu Dhabi's commercial sector.

Key Takeaways

• Abu Dhabi Ports to award $50m Al Haffar Souk EPC contract this month.
• Project to be completed by Q4 2025, generating jobs and economic activity.
• 1.4 million sqm market to feature carpet, furniture, food retail, and offices.
• Infrastructure includes roads, parking, and utilities, plus firewater network.
• Strategic location to establish souk as regional trade and commerce hub.