CDM Smith delivered preliminary design, modelling and environmental studies for Doha south’s major surface and groundwater pumping station and marine outfall.
Public Works Authority (Ashghal)
Doha, Qatar
CDM Smith led the preliminary design of the Musaimeer pumping station and outfall to mitigate flooding across southern Doha. We delivered marine modelling, environmental assessments, concept studies, hydraulic and structural design, and full tender documentation for a DBOM procurement, supporting Ashghal’s long-term drainage strategy.
Advanced hydrodynamic, water quality and sediment models defined the optimal discharge location and informed the final outfall alignment. This ensured safe, efficient and environmentally compliant dispersion of stormwater and groundwater into the marine environment.
We conducted marine and terrestrial baseline surveys, environmental scoping and a preliminary EIA to meet MME requirements. We secured DC1 approval and developed concept options aligned with regulatory, environmental and operational constraints.
The project addressed Qatar’s weak, karstic and sulfate-rich geology through optimized tunnel design, durability testing and detailed geotechnical investigations. The design ensured performance, constructability and long-term resilience of the 10 km tunnel and diffuser field.
A unique inspection and maintenance regime using autonomous and remotely operated vehicles minimized man-entry risks in the long subsea tunnel, improving safety, lowering lifecycle costs and enabling continuous operational reliability.
The Musaimeer pumping station and sea outfall project was initiated by Ashghal to reduce flooding and manage rising groundwater across a 200 km² area in southern Doha. CDM Smith served as lead consultant, delivering marine modelling, environmental baseline surveys, preliminary EIA, concept development and full preliminary design of a 20 m³/s pumping station, 10.1 km long outfall tunnel, diffuser field and supporting infrastructure. The work included extensive geotechnical and geophysical investigations, covering both offshore and onshore conditions, to address Qatar’s challenging sabkha and karstic geology. We prepared the DBOM tender documents, CESMM-based quantities and cost estimates, conducted prequalification, evaluated bids and supported contract preparation. The project introduced innovative inspection systems using autonomous vehicles and incorporated robust durability testing to ensure a 100-year service life. Lessons learned highlighted the importance of early stakeholder engagement and environmentally sensitive construction methods.
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Public Works Authority (Ashghal)
Doha, Qatar
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