QATAR’S $85B VISION FOR THE FUTURE: CITIES, ROADS & MORE

Qatar is embarking on an unprecedented infrastructure expansion, with multiple billion-dollar projects totalling over $85bn set to transform the Gulf nation's landscape over the next five years. The ambitious development agenda spans transport networks, new cities, and urban infrastructure as the country builds on its World Cup legacy. The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) is spearheading the charge with a QR80bn ($22bn) infrastructure development plan for 2025-2029, focusing on roads, drainage systems, and public facilities. The comprehensive programme aims to enhance connectivity and support Qatar's rapid urban expansion whilst addressing growing population needs.

LUSAIL CITY EMERGES AS DEVELOPMENT HOTSPOT

The crown jewel of Qatar's urban transformation is Lusail City, where construction projects worth QR250bn are in the pipeline. The planned city, spanning 38 square kilometres north of Doha, is designed to accommodate 450,000 residents and 250,000 employees upon completion. Lusail's development includes residential districts, commercial boulevards, four islands, and entertainment facilities. The city features 19 districts with varying architectural styles, from waterfront properties to high-rise towers, positioning it as Qatar's future business and leisure hub.

NEW $5.5BN CITY TAKES SHAPE

Adding to the construction boom, a new city worth $5.5bn is rising in Qatar. The Simaisma development project is designed as a mega entertainment-tourism district seven kilometres long, with a golf course and the Land of Legends theme park at its center. It is a collaboration between Saudi Arabia’s Dar Global — a London-based arm of Dar Al Arkan — and Qatari Diar, a state-owned real estate company in Qatar.

In addition, it will include an 18-hole Trump International Golf Club and Trump-branded beachside villas that will be constructed north of Doha. This development forms part of Qatar's broader strategy to diversify its urban centres beyond Doha and create sustainable communities for its growing population.

The project reflects Qatar's commitment to creating modern, integrated urban environments that combine residential, commercial, and recreational facilities whilst incorporating smart city technologies and sustainable design principles.

GOVERNMENT ALLOCATES $57.6BN FOR INFRASTRUCTURE

Demonstrating fiscal commitment to these mega-projects, Qatar has allocated $57.6bn to drive infrastructure projects. This substantial budget underscores the government's determination to maintain development momentum despite global economic uncertainties.

The allocation covers various sectors including transport, utilities, healthcare, and education infrastructure. Priority areas include expanding the road network, enhancing public transport systems, and developing new residential communities to support the country's National Vision 2030.

TIMELINE AND IMPLEMENTATION

The mega-projects follow staggered timelines, with Ashghal's five-year plan running through 2029. Lusail City continues its phased development, with various districts reaching completion at different stages. The new $5.5bn city project timeline extends into the next decade, ensuring continuous construction activity and economic stimulus.

Qatar's infrastructure boom represents one of the Middle East's most ambitious development programmes, rivalling the scale and vision of some of the projects currently underway in Gulf neighbours Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. With over $85bn committed across multiple projects, the tiny Gulf state is betting big on urban transformation to secure its post-hydrocarbon future.

Anthon Garcia | July, 2023