HE Prime Minister follows on progress of Corniche and Central Doha Development Project
His Excellency Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of the State of Qatar, visited the Central Doha and Corniche Street Development and Beautification Project on Sunday, 11 September 2022. During the visit, His Excellency the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior was briefed on the project’s latest developments.
During the visit, His Excellency was also briefed on key advantages of the Development and Beautification project, which aims to create an amicable and vibrant space for people and pedestrians in Doha.
The project also aims to promote healthy lifestyles, reduce dependence on vehicles and spur the development of additional public places and squares in the local area. It also serves to enhance the visual aspects of main roads, residential areas and vital centres whilst also creating efficient ways to preserve the natural environment.
His Excellency was accompanied by Mr Gianni Infantino, President of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), in addition to several ministers and senior officials.
The Central Doha and Corniche Street Development Project will contribute to improving Doha’s position as a distinguished tourist destination, said His Excellency Dr Eng. Saad bin Ahmad Al Muhannadi, President of the Public Works Authority “Ashghal”. He stressed that the project offers a pedestrian-friendly transportation system that is designed to encourage a healthy lifestyle.
This is one of the most vital projects, and one that will have a positive impact on achieving sustainable environmental development whilst creating a healthy society that supports the achievement of the Qatar National Vision 2030, Mr Al Muhannadi added.
Environmental aspects and balance were an integral part of the comprehensive plan for the Central Doha and Corniche Street Development Project, said Mr Al Muhannadi.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino also expressed his admiration for the impressive level of infrastructure readiness, stressing that this demonstrated that the State of Qatar was ready to host the largest sporting event in the world.
“I am sure that the fans will have a wonderful and unique experience here, extending beyond matches, thanks to everything that Qatar has to offer”, Mr Infantino stated.
In addition to the beautification of Central Doha and the Corniche Street, the project also involves the planting of over 137,000 square meters of green areas, including 940 trees and 920 palm trees.
Moreover, it also includes the development of a 7-km-long running track, linking the Airport Road and Ras Bu Abboud Street as an extension to Lusail Road.
Connected bicycle paths have also been created so that cyclists can move between squares and tunnels, and between the Corniche and Doha City, without having to stop for traffic.
In addition, a 1-km-long pedestrian and bicycle path was created in Central Doha, which is also designed to be suitable for use by people with disabilities.
The Corniche was decorated with 1,440 columns in the shape of a palm frond. The palm frond design was chosen to match the actual palm trees that stretch along the Corniche.
The project also includes the implementation of several pieces of artwork in tunnels and squares along the Corniche, Al Bidda and Al Dafna areas, in cooperation with Qatar Museums as well as local and international artists. The squares and platforms will include sculptures designed to match the site and offer improved scenery for visitors to enjoy.