DOHA METRO
Opened in 2019, this rapid transit system represents the largest metro project designed by FS Engineering to date. It stands as one of the most ambitious infrastructure schemes delivered in the Qatari capital, positioning itself at the centre of a sweeping urban and regional transformation encompassing highway networks, rail systems, real estate developments, and new urban centres.
The project is a cornerstone of the Qatari authorities’ strategic vision to establish a modern, sustainable, and integrated transport network. FS Engineering supported the client throughout this complex and demanding process, contributing its engineering expertise to deliver an infrastructure asset of international significance.
The International Civil Engineering Consortium (ISG) awarded the design contract for the northern underground section of the Doha Metro’s Red Line—spanning between Msheireb Station and Legtaifiya Station—to the CIO Joint Venture, which comprises Cowi, FS Engineering, and OneWorks.
- The project scope encompassed:
- Approximately 13 km of single-track twin tunnels, excavated using tunnel boring machines (TBMs) within high-density urban environments.
- Construction of seven underground stations.
- Ancillary works including emergency egress shafts, ventilation shafts, and tunnel access ramps.
Within the CIO Joint Venture, the company delivered the detailed design for the MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) systems, alongside elements of the civil structures and architectural finishes. FS Engineering also played a central role in the following project delivery activities:
- Interface management
- Systems assurance
- Requirements management
- Configuration management
- Construction-phase support and follow-up.
The Doha Metro scheme also represents the first major project developed entirely by Italferr utilizing Building Information Modelling (BIM) methodology, marking a fundamental milestone in the evolution of the company’s design processes.
| FS ENGINEERING: CHALLENGES OVERCOME AND EXPERIENCE GAINED |
| The Doha Metro Design & Build project demanded an exceptionally high level of technical and organisational expertise, requiring the closely coordinated management of the design, procurement, and construction phases, alongside the integration of numerous variations introduced by contractors and stakeholders. |
| The adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM) methodology represented a major milestone, necessitating the implementation of a Common Data Environment (CDE) integrated across the joint venture partners, as well as the deployment of new specialist software. In parallel, targeted training programmes were rolled out to facilitate the rapid acquisition of these new capabilities within a particularly demanding timeframe. |
| The assignment required exhaustive knowledge of international standards—with a particular focus on British and American codes—alongside local regulatory frameworks. The contract was executed under the terms of the FIDIC White Book, whilst the design delivery workflow adhered strictly to the RIBA Plan of Work, in accordance with Qatar Rail’s requirements. |
| The complexity and sheer scale of the project fostered robust teamwork amongst the Joint Venture’s designers, enabling the cross-pollination of technical know-how and consolidating advanced capabilities in the delivery of large-scale international transit schemes. |
The Doha Metro represents a definitive milestone in FS Engineering’s design history, distinguishing itself not only for the sheer scale and complexity of the project, but also through the pioneering methodological innovations it introduced. The project demonstrates the company’s ability to operate successfully within highly complex international environments. By seamlessly integrating technical excellence, process digitalisation, and advanced systems management, FS Engineering continues to support major urban transformations and deliver the sustainable mobility infrastructure of the future.