Qatar Rail to participate in UN GIS Conference

GIS (Global Information System) is a system whereby hardware, software, and data are utilized to manage, analyze and display all forms of geographically-relevant information.

The system is integral in any large scale construction and development projects, playing a crucial role in planning. As a result, Qatar Rail uses a variety of state-of-the-art technologies that support various operations including land acquisition, public approvals, alignment design, logistics, and visualization.

"I am proud that GIS technology is heavily promoted throughout Qatar Rail and whole-heartedly support its use and implementation in all aspects of our work," said Qatar Rail Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Saad Al Muhannadi.

"GIS is vital to our operations especially that we are close in launching the construction phase of the rail and metro project."

In order for GIS to work for Qatar Rail's unique and challenging requirements, the company custom-designed a bespoke application integrating Google Earth's platform to securely disseminate over 200 geospatial datasets to hundreds of Qatar Rail staff and stakeholders.

Numerous other GIS applications for desktop and mobile platforms have been developed using a combination of open source and commercial software packages. These applications ensure that Qatar Rail staff across multiple disciplines are kept up to date with the latest developments of this complex and fast changing project.  

"I have no doubt in my mind that the future of GIS at Qatar Rail is bright and promising," added Al Mohanndi, "We will continue to exploit existing GIS technologies and develop our own in our quest to deliver a world-class integrated railway system for Qatar."

Qatar Rail's participation in the UN-GGIM Conference is part of a long-held tradition in the firm in participating and supporting high-profile events in Qatar and abroad. These forums provide an ideal platform for the company to discuss pertinent issues in the industry, exchange current best practices, and share experiences, raising Qatar Rail's profile as a thought-leader in transportation and rail matters.