Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani has launched construction of a major new border road in Al-Muthanna Province, marking a significant step in strengthening trade and religious travel between Iraq and Saudi Arabia.
The Al-Samawah (Al-Mamlaha)–Al-Salman–Al-Jumaymah Border Crossing Road, spanning 219 km round-trip, is considered one of the province’s most strategically important infrastructure projects. It is designed to facilitate the movement of pilgrims travelling to and from the holy sites in Saudi Arabia, while also expanding commercial ties and supporting Iraq’s role as a regional transit hub.
Al-Sudani said the road will serve as a “vital economic artery” linking Al-Muthanna not only to the Saudi border, but also to wider domestic road networks, enabling broader economic partnerships and stimulating new investment opportunities. He emphasised its role in opening up the Al-Samawah desert to development in agriculture, industry and mining.
The Prime Minister urged local authorities to closely monitor progress to prevent delays, noting that the project aligns with the government’s policy to modernise essential infrastructure and unlock the economic potential of each governorate.
Implemented under the supervision of the Ministry of Construction, Housing, Municipalities and Public Works, the project features two lanes in each direction and six rest stations along the route to support travellers and logistics companies.
Officials believe the road will not only enhance mobility and trade, but also attract investors, generate jobs and elevate the province’s contribution to national economic growth positioning Al-Muthanna as a gateway for increased cooperation with Saudi Arabia.
Source: Iraqi Prime Minister Media Office
- Published: 29th October, 2025
- Location: Muthanna
- Country: Iraq
- Editor: Nour Ghanem
- Category: Infrastructure
