Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has invited companies to bid by 19 May for a preparatory works contract for its AED475mn Gate Avenue retail district at DIFC. The work involves preparing the existing substructure that was previously completed as part of another contract before a main contractor is appointed. The 61,000 sqm centre will connect existing buildings at DIFC, as well as future developments and will have 150 retail outlets. The main construction contract will start in the 3Q16 and the centre will open in 4Q2017, according to DIFC. The consultant for the Gate Avenue development is the UK’s RMJM. The project manager is US-based Turner Construction International. DIFC is also tendering a contract to build the Gate Village 11 building. Contractors submitted bids for the contract in 1Q16. (MEED)