New Doha Zoo to be ready by end of 2017

Demolition of buildings and other facilities within the boundaries of the New Doha Zoo site is expected to begin soon. 

The animals will be shifted to a temporary facility in Rawdhet Al Faras during construction of the new zoo that will be seven times the size of the existing one.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has awarded two contracts with a combined value of about QR118m for preparatory works. The New Doha Zoo is planned to be opened to the public by the end of 2017.

The "enabling and demolition works contract" valued at more than QR45m was awarded to Aswan Trading and Contracting Company. 

Site preparation works commenced earlier this month and the contract includes demolition of buildings and facilities within the boundaries of the New Doha Zoo site.

Works, estimated to take 14  months, will prepare the site for main construction and ensure the protection and maintenance of trees and natural environment on site during excavation work. 

The second contract valued at more than QR73m for the design and construction of temporary housing facility for animals in Rawdhet Al Faras was awarded to Medgulf Construction Company. 

The one-year contract includes the design and implementation of the temporary facility in Rawdhet Al Faras where animals are housed during construction of the new park until they are able to return to the new zoo.

The facility also includes residences for caretakers and a veterinary clinic.

Spanning over 75 hectares, the new zoo will boast a drive-through safari, displaying animals and plants from around the world in an environment set to mirror natural habitats of an African savannah, an Asian jungle and a South American rainforest. 

Facilities will include hotels, a unique land bridge to allow the animals to roam to the adjacent Aspire Park, an educational and conservation discovery centre and multiple entertainment and food and beverage outlets

Source: Peninsula Qatar