MEED's 2010 Arabian World Construction Summit (AWCS) will turn the spotlight on the US$2 trillion worth of projects planned or under way in the six-nation Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the opportunities available for global construction and investment community, the organizers announced today. To be held from May 24-26, 2010 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) and themed ‘Growing in a Challenging Market', AWCS will host over 50 expert speakers from the Arab world highlighting key business opportunities and addressing topical issues that currently impact the industry. Over 400 international delegates are expected to attend the three-day event, according to a report of the United Arab Emirates' News Agency "WAM". Edmund O'Sullivan, Chairman, MEED Events, said: "In 2009, almost US$52 billion worth of contracts were awarded in the GCC region and we expect this level to rise in 2010. The total value of infrastructure contracts increased by 11 per cent to US$15 billion in 2009, from US$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. "Reflecting this trend, AWCS will serve as a forum to discuss the opportunities and challenges in the sector while offering new business prospects. 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." --MORE