The first phase of a Permanent Accommodation for Contractors (PAC) project in Oman for the Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) is nearing completion. The project to construct accommodation facilities in the Fahud and Nimr areas was awarded to two PAC operators on a build, own and operate (BOO) basis.

The facilities are planned to be open by September and will provide a total of more than 1,200 rooms.

There will also be a medical service and a few small shops.

The PDO is planning to stipulate in tender notices a contractual provision relating to the use of new PACs. Operating procedures for the Nimr and Fahud PACs are being prepared to guide contractors.

The Fahud and Nimr PAC facilities are the first phase of permanent accommodation. More PACs are planned for the Qarn Alam area. According to the PDO schedule, the Qarn Alam permanent accommodation facility will be ready by September 2001.