To reach USD 9.53 billion by year end
In a news release, the organisers of The Big 5 have shared the information that contracts for new medical facilities across the GCC region are expected to reach USD 9.53 billion by the end of 2014 – a 25% increase on 2013.
Citing Dubai Health Authority (DHA), the news release said that Dubai plans to attract 500,000 patients for treatment by 2020 as part of its drive to become a centre for medical excellence in the region. To cater to the expected stream of patients, 18 private and four public hospitals will be built over the next few years, the DHA reportedly said.
The Big 5 news release listed additional statistical data:
- Saudi Arabia is expected to triple healthcare expenditure across the region, according to Frost & Sullivan.
- In Kuwait, the Ministry of Health has awarded local company, Sayed Hamid Behbehani & Sons, the construction contract for the Farwaniya Hospital expansion. Kuwait is also investing in the USD 1.26 billion New Jahra hospital project, currently under tender for construction.
Underscoring this, Andy White, Group Event Director of The Big 5, said: “Rising populations and changing demographics are creating a need for more specialised facilities, and in turn driving demand for more buildings.
This is providing yet another opportunity for the region’s construction sector, and firms are getting the chance to work on some of the most exciting healthcare projects.” In light of this, The Big 5 said that construction professionals involved in the development of healthcare facilities will converge in Dubai at The Big 5 building and construction exhibition, where participants will have access to information and products vital to the delivery of these medical projects, including insights from key experts in the industry presenting at conferences and workshops.
The Big 5 runs from November 17-20 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.