The first phase of the Dhs520 million Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Maritime City was launched today by Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, the Ruler of RAK. Tenders for various infrastructure projects including roads and drainage systems is currently underway. The project consultant is Halcrow Engineering. The 8 million-square meter maritime freezone is expected to create 5000 jobs in the area once infrastructure is completed in the next 18 to 24 months. The facility is currently fully operational , currently with three international anchor clients and is expected to attract upto 50 clients in the medium to heavy industries such as steel and petrochemicals. Phase two of the project is pending securing finance from various investors. From / Gulf news