Transport construction projects in MENA region reach $87.6bn

The transport sector continues to be a major contributor to infrastructure and construction projects in MENA region.

Across the MENA region, the first half of 2017 saw a total of US$87.6bn in major transport projects.

A total value of 481 active transport projects that exceeded AED 321.49 billion.

Breaking down those projects, 364 of them were road projects with a combined value of US$36.5bn while another 39 projects were rail construction projects totalling US$33.9bn in value.

As Expo 2020 edges closer and closer, the total number of projects, and ultimately the value of those projects is expected to continue to rise exponentially.

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The government is reported to be fast tracking all significant infrastructure projects, including road, rail, aviation and marine projects to “ensure smooth transportation of goods and traffic” ahead of the Expo.

Looking further into the projects, 218 worth $20bn are currently “under construction”, 92 projects worth $29.7bn confirmed and “in the pipeline”, and 110 projects worth $32.7bn are described as being “on hold”.

The transport sector in the UAE has and will continue to be a major element to all construction projects in the region, with the transport sector constituting 4% of all active projects, which in turn makes up 11% of the total value of construction projects across all sectors in the country.