Qatar Rail reaffirms support for local firms

As part of its commitment to Qatar National Vision 2030 and in line with the government’s diverse initiatives to encourage the local private sector, Qatar Rail has solidified its commitment to support the private sector in Qatar.
Since inception, Qatar Rail has been steadfast in the inclusion of various local private companies in the delivery of its projects. The company has long prioritised the provision of opportunities to the Qatari private sector through its projects related to build and design and accompanying works.
Since its establishment in 2011, Qatar Rail began procuring civil works design and build contracts for Doha Metro Phase 1, completing procurement of the last of these contracts in 2014. To ensure local participation, Qatar Rail stipulated that each civil works contractor must have at least one Qatari member at the joint venture level with the vision that this will fast-track the development of the local construction industry.
As a result, the Qatari construction sector now has greater experience of large complex projects and is better able to support development of key national infrastructure for 2030 and beyond.
In addition to participation at joint venture level, Qatar Rail requires its contractors to maximise the use of local Qatari companies at subcontract level. This obligation is written into every contract awarded by Qatar Rail. Consequently, 1,998 subcontracts, which amounts to 84% of all subcontracts, were awarded to Qatari companies.
Most recently, Qatar Rail has awarded the service provider contract for Doha Metro Phase 1 and Lusail Tram systems. In line with the company’s commitment to generate more jobs locally, this contract is shaped in a way that it will create up to 1,500 jobs in the local private sector.
Furthermore, Qatar Rail is now looking to provide opportunities for private sector investment to partner with Qatar Rail on several future projects including Transit-oriented developments, Park-and-Ride facilities, future metro and tram projects, private use of state-owned transport infrastructure for advertising, communications and other uses, renewable energy schemes, provision of feeder systems for moving passengers in the first and last portions of their journeys, and so forth. 
Qatar Rail’s Managing Director and CEO Engineer Abdullah al-Subaie said that Qatar Rail is a staunch advocate of greater participation of the Qatari private sector. Qatar Rail has awarded over 80% of the projects being implemented so far to the private sector.
Since the beginning, Qatar Rail has sought to encourage local companies to take part in joint ventures with international companies. The local businesses can provide their expertise on existing systems in the Qatari market, while international companies can share their knowledge on the establishment of a world-class rail network. Such partnerships add value to both the company itself and the project it is implementing, al-Subaie added.
He expressed sincerest thanks to all local partners. “Were it not for their continuous support, our ambitious plans and achievements thus far wouldn’t have been possible. It is their support that keeps us both on track and on schedule”.
For his part, Chairman of Al Bidda Switchgear Sheikh Suhaim bin Abdulaziz al-Thani expressed his pride at the Qatar Rail project as it supports the Qatar National Vision 2030, and added that his company managed to deliver to this mega project products that are fully manufactured on Qatari soil.
He noted that Qatar Rail has continuously provided the company with the support needed, working with them like partners rather than suppliers.
Meanwhile, Chairman of Qatar National Aluminium Panel Company (Q-NAP) Sheikh Naif Ali al-Thani expressed his commitment to continue to support Qatar Rail and the delivery of the railway system.
“At Qatar National Aluminium Panel Company we make every effort to ensure our products and services are delivered to the highest standards, worthy of this landmark project we are privileged to be a part of. The support that we received from Qatar Rail is unwavering, your patronage has played crucial role in promoting local companies and providing them with unparalleled opportunities for growth. Through your leadership and guidance you have helped us shape our business to best comply with the highest standards set not only locally but internationally,” he said.
Mohamed al-Jufairi, managing partner of NFFCO Qatar pledged to continue being a part of the project, noting that it is a true reflection of Qatar National vision 2030.
He said that the opportunities given to the company in some of the packages are remarkable, recognising the immeasurable support and commitment of Qatar Rail towards the country’s economic development.