Saudi opens new road to Qatar and UAE, cuts travel time by 1 hour

Riyadh: A new road connecting Saudi Arabia with neighbouring Gulf countries – UAE and Qatar - has been officially opened. Marking a significant development aimed at enhancing regional connectivity, Governor of the Saudi Eastern Province Amir Saud bin Naif bin Abdul Aziz, inaugurated the road stretching from Dhahran in the Eastern Province to Salwa, Qatar's border via Al Khair. This vital infrastructure project spans a length of 66 km and is poised to become a crucial artery linking eastern Saudi Arabia with the wider Gulf region.

Constructed by the Road General Authority at a total cost of 19.9 crore Riyals, the newly opened road boasts double lanes in each direction, ensuring smoother and more efficient traffic flow. Governor Amir Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz commended the administration's efforts in bolstering transportation infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of expanding and securing transport routes to facilitate economic and social development.

Governor Amir Saud appreciated the Road Authority's meticulous execution of the project and highlighted the significant benefits of the new road. The road is expected to reduce travel time and enhance accessibility for citizens and residents alike. He reiterated the administration's commitment to prioritizing projects aimed at improving the quality of life and promoting economic growth.

Minister of Transport and Logistics, Eng. Salih bin Nasser Al-Jasser highlighted the strategic importance of the new road in strengthening connections between industrial hubs such as Jubail Governorate and various border crossings. “The road significantly reduces travel time for those driving to Qatar and the UAE, effectively cutting down travel durations by up to an hour”, he said.

The unveiling of the new road is expected to streamline transit truck movements, facilitating smoother access to border crossings and areas beyond urban centres. Minister Al-Jasser emphasized that the project aligns with the broader objectives of optimizing transportation networks to support economic activities and improve connectivity across the region.

The opening ceremony was attended by key dignitaries including the Acting CEO of General Roads Authority Eng. Badr Abdullah Al-Dulami and senior officials in the transportation sector. Their presence underlined the significance of the project and the collective commitment to advancing infrastructure development efforts aimed at fostering regional integration and growth.