Leading global construction firms from 33 countries are showcasing their innovative products and services at the 14th edition of the Project Qatar 2017 which opened in capital Doha today (May 8).

A major trade exhibition for construction technology, building materials, equipment and environmental technology, Project Qatar 2017, is being held under the patronage of Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al-Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of Qatar.

The Minister of Commerce and Economy Sheikh Ahmed bin Jassim bin Mohamed Al Thani inaugurated the event in the presence of Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al Sada, Minister of Energy and Industry, and other top-ranking officials and foreign dignitaries.

The country’s largest construction event, Project Qatar will see more than 16,000 visitors enter the halls of the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center until May 11, said the organisers.

A total of 516 exhibitors will be showcase their projects complementing Qatar’s huge ongoing infrastructure development besides several country pavilions including France, Italy, Germany, Belgium, China, Turkey, Kuwait, and Pakistan.

The country’s bid to diversify its economy from oil and gas has led to major construction developments particularly for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2022, they stated.

George Ayache, the general manager, IFP Qatar, said the expo takes off once again to a grand start with multiple engagements for the construction sector.

"From workshops to conferences and exhibitions, these various platforms enable the sector to get the latest innovation and sustainability efforts by leading construction companies in the world," he stated.

"As Qatar bids to become a global hub for major events, it pays great attention to the sustainability of buildings and facilities and these concerns play a major role in the further growth of the sector. We expect to witness major deals and new project launches within the four days," he added.

The opening day witnessed several workshop sessions and the start of the Accessible Qatar Conference.

The workshop featured four key topics: ‘Cooperating to Advance Construction Codes in the Gulf Region’ by Mark Johnson, the executive VP, Business Development, International Code Council (ICC); ‘Quality Assessment - Strategic Approach’ by Muhammed Farooque, the CEO and managing director of Excelledia; ‘The “World Best Practice” Paradox’ by Samer Deaïbess, the management systems consultant of EGS; and ‘LEED and Water Saving-Success in Building Design’ by Joe Azzarello, the senior sustainability engineer of Kohler Company.

The Accessible Qatar Conference aims to raise awareness on the issue of accessibility in buildings and infrastructure to influence project developers in including accessibility in the construction of facilities and venues, said the organisers.

The two-day conference will cover accessibility in various sectors such as tourism, architectural design, implementation sports, work environment and inclusive urban development. The most accessible venues in Qatar will also be awarded during the “Accessible Qatar Awards” tomorrow (May 9).

Other event features include a Live Demo Theater and a B2B Matchmaking event, they added.-TradeArabia News Service