Emaar Properties is studying bids from six contracting groups for construction of the first three high-rises on the estimated $4 billion Dubai Marina project in Dubai, UAE.

Known as the Phase One North contract, the estimated Dh550 million ($150 million) deal covers the construction of a two-storey podium, on top of which the three towers will be built. The tallest, called Al Murjan, will be 40 storeys high, and the other two, Al Mass and Al Fairooz, will be 31 storeys and 23 storeys respectively.

Roughly half of the contract value will account for speciality building packages, which will be assigned by the client as nominated subcontracts to the main contract. The subcontract packages include: the supply of lifts and chillers; mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) works; and building maintenance. The contract, expected to be awarded next month, will take about 28 months to complete.

A second batch of buildings, also covering three towers, is due to be tendered in late summer as the Phase One South contract.

The substructure for the first six towers on Dubai Marina was awarded to the local/UK Al-Futtaim Tarmac in November. The project manager is the UK's Mace International.

Covering an area of more than 600 hectares, Dubai Marina will be developed in phases over 15-20 years. On completion, the development is expected to house up to 100,000 residents.