Abu Dhabi, Apr 11 (IANS/WAM): The United Arab Emirates (UAE) would host the 2010 Arabian World Construction Summit (AWCS) in May.

The summit, which would be held May 24-26 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), will host over 50 speakers from the Arab world who would address issues related to the construction industry. Over 400 international delegates are expected to attend the three-day event.

"In 2009, almost $52 billion worth of contracts were awarded in the Gulf region and we expect this level to rise in 2010. The total value of infrastructure contracts increased by 11 percent to $15 billion in 2009, from $13 billion in 2008. There are significant opportunities in key areas such as infrastructure, transportation and housing and they will continue to lead the construction industry for years to come," said Edmund O'Sullivan, chairman, MEED Events, organisers of the event.

"The summit has served as a great information and networking platform for the last two years and we are confident the upcoming edition will offer many business leads to participants," he added.