Large-Scale Integrated Residential Development for Iraq’s Public Housing Infrastructure

The 1,416 Villa Housing Complex and Social Facilities Project is one of the most comprehensive mass housing and social infrastructure investments implemented in Iraq. The project was realized in the city of Basra, located in southern Iraq, under the authority of the Ministry of Construction and Housing of the Republic of Iraq. Within the scope of this large-scale residential development, DORÇE undertook the engineering, superstructure, and infrastructure works in an integrated manner, utilizing a conventional reinforced concrete construction system.

With a total construction area of 677,850 m² and a site area of 385,000 m², the project was planned with a holistic urban development approach that goes beyond residential production to include education, healthcare, commercial, religious, and cultural facilities. In this respect, the project strongly demonstrates DORÇE’s contracting capability not only in modular and prefabricated solutions but also in large-scale conventional reinforced concrete housing projects.

To ensure uninterrupted progress and strict quality control throughout construction, dedicated on-site concrete production facilities were established. All production, logistics, and application equipment required for reinforced concrete works were mobilized under DORÇE’s organization.

Large-Scale Housing Production and Social Facilities

Within the scope of the project, a total of 1,416 villa housing units were constructed in two different types:

Type A: Villas with a footprint area of 200 m²
Type B: Villas with a footprint area of 300 m²

The residential units were designed in accordance with the region’s climatic conditions and family-oriented living requirements.

In addition to the residential areas, the following social facilities were delivered on a turnkey basis within the complex:

• 2 primary schools2 secondary schools
• Nursery and kindergarten
• Healthcare center
• Modern market area
• Commercial center
• Mosque
• Cultural center

These facilities were positioned to ensure that the residential complex functions as a self-sufficient and sustainable living environment.

Integration of Infrastructure, Superstructure, and Public Services

DORÇE’s scope of work was not limited to building construction alone; all infrastructure and technical systems were also completed through a fully integrated approach. The main works carried out within the project include:

• Site preparation, excavation, and backfilling works
• Foundation and reinforced concrete construction works
• Internal roads, parking areas, and landscaping works
• Playgrounds and green area developments

Infrastructure and mechanical-electrical systems included:

• Power supply intake and transformer systems
• Generator and power plant infrastructure
• Fire detection, alarm, and suppression systems
• Potable water treatment and distribution systems
• Wastewater and stormwater drainage infrastructure
• Security, lighting, and low-current systems

All systems were fully constructed and commissioned.

Long-Term Project Management in a Challenging Geography

The project commenced in 2011 and progressed under the main contract until 2013. Due to internal political conflicts in Iraq, construction activities were suspended during certain periods, and the project schedule was revised through mutual agreement with the employer. This process clearly demonstrates DORÇE’s capability in long-term project management, site organization, and sustainable execution of public projects in crisis regions.

A Strong Reference for Housing Projects in Iraq and the Middle East

The Basra 1,416 Villa Housing Complex Project stands as a significant reference proving DORÇE’s international contracting experience and technical capacity in the following areas:

• Mass housing projects
• Public social facilities
• Large-scale infrastructure and superstructure investments
• Construction management in crisis regions
• Conventional reinforced concrete building systems

The project serves as a benchmark model for similar large-scale public investments to be implemented in Iraq, the Middle East, and other developing markets.