Qatar Tenders Smaisma Infrastructure Contract, Setting Stage for Mega Coastal Development
- Michael Ghobrial

 - Sep 18
 - 3 min read
 
Qatar’s Ministry of Municipality and Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment have started the tender process for major infrastructure works in the Smaisma project. Located about 40 kilometres north of Doha, Smaisma is set to become an 8 million square metre coastal entertainment and tourism destination with a QR20 billion ($5.5 billion) budget. The scheme will transform Qatar’s eastern shoreline, offering big construction opportunities for local and international firms focused on roads, utilities, and resort infrastructure.
Project Overview
Area: 8 million square metres
Coastline: 7 kilometres of beachfront
Budget: QR20 billion ($5.5 billion)
Key attractions: luxury resorts, theme park, golf course, marina, yacht club, retail and high-end residential
Led by: Ministry of Municipality and Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment (Qatar Investment Authority subsidiary)
Private sector: Over 80% project investment, 16 dedicated plots for resort or commercial development

The Tender Process and Bidding Opportunities
The tender for the Smaisma early works package opened recently and will remain accessible until June 2025. For construction professionals looking to participate, understanding the bidding process and preparation is crucial for success. The competition for tenders in such major projects is usually intense, so strategic planning is essential.
Delivery Partners & Key
Stakeholders
Client/Owner: Ministry of Municipality, Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company
Main consultant: Dorsch-EllisDon Consortium (providing project management and construction supervision)
Government: Qatar's Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Environment
Contractors: Shortlist includes Bilfinger Berger, QDVC, HBK Contracting, Medgulf Construction
Investors: Local and foreign developers pursuing hospitality, F&B, and entertainment plots
Utility/Infrastructure: Ashghal (Public Works Authority), local municipalities

Construction Details
Scope: Enabling works, roads, bridges, sewage and treated water networks, landscaping, marina facilities, entertainment and hospitality infrastructure
Technical pillars: Smart systems to reduce unskilled labour, recycled and local materials, GSAS 3-star sustainability rating target
Unique features: Outdoor air-conditioning for year-round comfort, flood control, groundwater recharge
Timeline
Tender release: Q2 2025
Submission deadline: June 15, 2025 (early/enabling works)
Award & mobilisation: Q3 2025
Four-year delivery programme by Dorsch-EllisDon
Phase-one completion: Targeting 2029 as tourism areas open for business
Strategic Importance
The Smaisma project is a flagship for Qatar National Vision 2030, driving economic growth, diversification, and foreign investment. It will add significant new capacity to Qatar's hospitality sector, boost tourism, and set a new standard in sustainable building and smart-city technology for the GCC region.
Construction Opportunities
• Major civil works and infrastructure roll-out
• Resort build packages, marinas, golf, theme park and residential clusters
• Subcontracting for utilities, telecoms, landscaping, road safety
• Specialist consultants and managers in project controls, environmental, and GSAS certification

Conclusion: A Call to Action for Construction Professionals
The Smaisma Development Project presents a unique opportunity for construction professionals eager to delve into one of Qatar's most pivotal infrastructure projects. The deadline for submissions is June 2025, leaving ample time for preparation. Engaging with local authorities, understanding sustainability practices, and applying advanced project management techniques is crucial for success.
This initiative is not just about constructing buildings; it is about reshaping the future of Qatar by creating a sustainable tourism and entertainment hub that resonates with both residents and visitors. Therefore, as deadlines approach, let these insights guide your preparation and enhance your bidding strategy for the Smaisma infrastructure contract.
By being proactive and prepared, you can position yourself at the forefront of this groundbreaking project, contributing to a storied chapter in Qatar’s development journey.
Writer's Opinion
Smaisma stands out as a true mega-development, blending cultural, tourism and sustainability ambitions. For contractors and partners willing to innovate and invest in advanced building techniques, it's the perfect time to get involved. This project isn't just about breaking ground; it's about setting new benchmarks for what a coastal destination can mean in the Middle East. With strong public-private partnerships, smart technology and a bold vision, Smaisma is poised to become a highlight of Qatar's
transformation story, follow its progress and invest in building the future.









