Jeddah infrastructure show draws top firms

A four-day exhibition displaying catalogs and samples from 80 international infrastructure, planning and transportation companies is taking place at the Jeddah Centre for Forums and Events.Jeddah Mayor Hani bin Mohammed Abu Ras inaugurated the event on behalf of Municipal and Rural Affairs Minister Prince Mansour bin Miteb.It showcases investment opportunities in infrastructure projects in the country.Abu Ras said the government\'s priority is to continue on the path of progress and development and lay the foundations for the Kingdom\'s economic strategy over the next 50 years.“The Kingdom’s infrastructure development program in the Kingdom is considered the biggest in the GCC region. $385 billion has been allocated to develop infrastructure between 2010 and 2014,” he said.The exhibition is displaying advanced technologies and services of various local, European and Arab companies in sectors related to city planning, transportation, oil, gas, pipelines, industrial, buildings, power, water, marine and infrastructure. It provides a special opportunity for public and private investors to acknowledge market capacity and sign big investment contracts with decision-makers. Al-Harthi Company for Exhibitions has organized the event with the support of CWC International Corporation. Abu Ras said he is optimistic about the future of Jeddah adding that there is an urgent need to develop a system of basic infrastructure facilities. “Jeddah will witness a grand shift in different sectors due to the support and attention it receives from both Makkah Gov. Prince Khaled Al-Faisal and Jeddah Gov. Prince Mishaal bin Majed. Our efforts aim at granting Jeddah a distinguished status in the region,” he added.