Oman is starting the prequalification process for the second phases of building a 2,135km rail network.
It is seeking bids from teams experienced in the design and construction of major railways, tunnels and bridges.
The project involves creation of a new freight and passenger network with future scope for high-speed rail. The route will connect Oman’s centres of population and growth-drivers and will also be part of a regional Gulf rail network.
The Oman National railway network has an estimated total length of 2,135km, divided into several segments linking Oman’s borders with the UAE to Muscat and also to the southern parts of the country – Port of Al Duqm, the Port of Salalah and the Yemen border. The railway will be double track and non-electrified.
Oman Railway is seeking bidders for both the main run of the railway and the bridge and tunnel sections. It has set out criteria for the experience of potential bidders. For the tunnel and bridge work, they should have with experience in the final design and construction of a railway infrastructure project in the last five years with a total project construction value of more than US$2bn (£1.24bn). They should also have experience in the the final detailed design of at least one major railway project in the last five years covering at least 200km of double-track line as well as in a 5km tunnel and bridges with piers at least 60m high.