A testament to human ingenuity and engineering prowess, a new 564-kilometer highway connecting Saudi Arabia and Oman has been hailed as a remarkable achievement. The road, which traverses the unforgiving Empty Quarter desert, is set to revolutionize transportation and trade between the two Gulf nations. This impressive stretch traverses the harsh terrain of the Empty Quarter desert (Rub Al-Khali), representing a monumental achievement in infrastructure and regional cooperation.
The highway, stretching from the Batha Haradh intersection to the Empty Quarter border crossing, has been described as a crucial artery strengthening ties between Saudi Arabia and Oman across various sectors. This vital roadway, which took over 1.3 million work hours and utilized 750 specialized pieces of heavy equipment, demonstrates the remarkable engineering prowess required to overcome the challenging desert environment.
The project was executed in two phases. The first phase involved constructing a 319-kilometer road extending from Batha Haradh to the Shaybah oil field. The second phase covered the remaining 246 kilometers, extending from Shaybah to the border with Oman. The meticulous planning and execution reflect a commitment to both functionality and safety.
The highway’s design incorporates several features to ensure high traffic safety standards. It includes 30 kilometers of night lighting, 12 million square meters of road markings, and numerous reflective markers and warning signs. Additionally, rest stops for trucks and cars have been strategically placed on both sides of the road to enhance safety and convenience for all users.
“This strategic project will significantly boost trade and tourism between Saudi Arabia and Oman,” noted Saudi officials. The highway is expected to facilitate the movement of pilgrims and tourists to the holy sites, further enhancing regional connectivity and economic collaboration. Moreover, the new highway plays a critical role in realizing the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy. It underscores Saudi Arabia’s ambition to solidify its position as a global logistics hub and enhance its infrastructure’s role in regional and international trade.
