Channel Upgrade for Mesaieed Port, Qatar

The present navigation channel to Mesaieed Port has a number of shallow and narrow sections, which considerably restricts the parcel sizes of the vessels and allows only for one-way traffic. The channel is a vital artery to the port and its industries and needs to be Upgraded to safeguard the future exports and imports of the port industries and users, remain a competitive port, provide adequate service levels to the customers, and enhance the safety of navigation. This paper describes the study carried out and highlights in particular how (1) Advanced technical tools such as mathematical ship manoeuvring simulations are applied to optimise the channel configuration and hence save dredging costs; (2) A detailed cost recovery model can result in an effective financing plan, ensuring an equitable funding solution for the channel upgrade; and (3) An interactive approach with the Client and ultimate channel users results in a fully accepted and implemented project.