Qatar

These conversations have come at a time when Qatar is notably increasing the momentum of its World Cup schedules and setting frameworks and procedures to aid its development.

The most notable of these over recent weeks has been the inclusion of company names and bids from all firms who apply for pre-qualification and those who are shortlisted, on the Doha Port online tender portal.

Qatar authorities say the aim is to increase transparency, efficiency, quality and competition. While contractors have complained about the public availability of commercial data, Qatar says the solution is for them to adopt a more strategic approach to business practices in the region.

During the conference, James Brennan from London-based Herbert Smith said clients on such projects have little choice when aiming to attract “world class contractors”.

“What we have now is a cultural disconnection between clients and companies. Contractors need to change the way they approach a deal, adding more value beyond contractual communications by bringing new ideas and being innovative,” Brennan is quoted as saying during the conference.