Official conference announcement: Bridges Middle East 2009

This is the region's only conference dedicated specifically to addressing the current challenges faced in creating iconic and mega bridge projects.

This conference will act as a major platform for bridge professionals from all over the world to engage in a variety of discussions on the latest innovations, developments and specification in regional bridge projects. The event sets the stage for Municipalities, Public Works Authorities and Developers to announce upcoming tenders and project case studies.

At the main conference on 23-24 November 2009, attendees can immerse themselves in two full days of presentations and case studies from senior local and international speakers, as well as interactive discussions on crucial issues. Key topics to be discussed include: designing, planning and integrating bridge projects, bridge maintenance strategies, building sustainable bridges and exploring future developments in bridge technologies.

Most notably and impressively this event will be host to the exclusive launch of the Qatar-Bahrain Causeway Project.

Recognised as the world's longest marine crossing, this project answers an important part of the mobility challenge for Qatar and Bahrain by providing a surface transportation link between the two diverse and complementary countries and economies. It is also poised to become the first link in a Middle East (GCC) rail network, by providing an unobstructed connection for freight and high speed passenger rail service between Bahrain and Qatar, along a rail system that may one day connect many of the GCC countries.

The Governments of the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Bahrain intend to build a four-lane, 40 kilometer long causeway, consisting of roadway sections on reclaimed embankment and natural islands, low level bridge structures and signature long-span bridges. Through an exclusive focus day the QBCF will take you through a detailed look at the planning and implementation of the world's longest over water link.

Fiona Barron, Conference Director for Bridges Middles East 2009 states:

"We are delighted to have the support and involvement of the Qatar Bahrain Causeway Management, this will no doubt be a major highlight of the event and serve as a platform for industry leaders to discuss one of the world's most ambitious bridge projects."