Only 255 Contractors Approved for Bahrain Government Projects

In a recent announcement to Parliament, Works Minister Ibrahim bin Hassan Al Hawaj confirmed that only 255 contractors currently meet the stringent technical and financial standards required to qualify for government projects in Bahrain. This revelation came during a session where MP Ali Saqer inquired about the companies involved in construction and contracting sectors.

Prequalification: A Must for Bidding Success

Minister Al Hawaj stressed that prequalification is essential for bidding on government projects. Contractors who fail to meet these strict standards are automatically excluded from consideration. The categorization of contractors includes specializations such as roads, sanitation, and government buildings, with some firms qualified under multiple categories.

Transparency in Contractor Listing

The list of eligible contractors is publicly accessible and updated routinely following approval by the Tender Board, ensuring transparency and up-to-date information for interested parties. This process underscores Bahrain's commitment to maintaining high standards in public sector contracting, aligning contractor capabilities with project requirements.

Project Management Excellence: A Five-Step Framework

Addressing concerns about firms being excluded from projects, Minister Al Hawaj outlined the rigorous prequalification process designed to ensure only capable and reliable contractors are considered. Projects follow a comprehensive five-step framework comprising feasibility studies, master planning, detailed design, construction supervision, and handover, ensuring excellence in project management.

Future Opportunities for New Contractors

While the current list includes 255 qualified firms, there is room for new entrants who can meet these exacting standards. Minister Al Hawaj emphasized that although the current number may not change significantly soon due to ongoing projects, new opportunities will arise as contracts are renewed or new ones initiated.

In addition, Bahrain's government plans include ambitious infrastructure and development initiatives like building thousands of new housing units and launching major road construction projects. These developments promise significant opportunities for both existing and prospective contractors who meet the required standards.