Saudi Aramco officials and businessmen discussing details of the project to construct 11 stadiums in Dammam, Wednesday. The project was proposed by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah in June. — Courtesy photo



Saeed Haider

Saudi Gazette

DAMMAM — Work on the project to build 11 world class sports stadiums in different regions of the Kingdom will start next month. The project will be completed within two years.



The decision was taken at a meeting of Saudi Aramco executives, officials of the Eastern Province Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Asharqiya Chamber) and prominent businessmen here on Wednesday.



Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah ordered the construction of these stadiums on June 21.



Chairman of Asharqiya Chamber Abdulrahman Al-Otaishan highlighted the importance of the proposed project and said it will open new investment opportunities for domestic businessmen. He said the project will provide an opportunity to the local construction companies to experience Aramco’s professionalism and get exposure to world class technology. He thanked the King for his commitment for the welfare of his citizens, particularly the youth. “The project will enhance investment environment in the country and will give a major fillip to national economy,” he said.



Saudi Aramco’s Projects Director Moatiz Mashooq said the project offers a great opportunity for local businessmen.



He said Saudi Aramco was proud to be the bestowed with the responsibility for the construction of these stadiums.



He said the project will open new opportunities for those contractors who have never before worked with Saudi Aramco. He said the project will require world class quality and standards.



“We have to make our nation proud,” he said adding that Saudi Aramco was proud of its partnership with the private sector.



He said Saudi Aramco spent around SR23 billion in local market which constitutes nearly 75 percent of its total purchase. He said out of total contract that Saudi Aramco has awarded, more than 92 percent contracts have been given to national companies.



Abdulhakeem Al-Ammar, chairman of the Chambers’ contracting committee, said local businessmen have to understand the aspirations and high standards of Saudi Aramco.



“We have to demonstrate our full commitment to the project which is a gift from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to the youth of the country. He said it was a big challenge before the private sector but he was confident that the businessmen will be able to meet the challenge.



From Saudi Aramco Tawfeeq Al-Kabsani, Nasser Al-Nafisi and Ibrahim Moallad also spoke on various aspects of the project and the role of the private sector. They emphasized the need for quality and time frame. “We have to produce most modern and world class stadiums within two years and not a day more.”



Saudi Aramco also presented details about the stadiums, their dimensions and other relevant logistics.



The meeting concluded with a presentation on the mechanism to work with Saudi Aramco; registration process and accreditation.