Egypt could build bridge to Saudi Arabia

People could soon drive directly from Egypt to Saudi Arabia thanks to a new bridge.

Travellers taking cheap flights to Egypt could soon see a bridge linking the country with Saudi Arabia following approval by the new Egyptian government.

According to The Times, the $4.5 billion project was rejected by former leader Hosni Mubarak because of security worries.

But, in a sign that Egypt plans to ally itself more closely with Arab nations, the new government has chosen to accept the proposal of a 32-kilometre bridge, with the aim of boosting commerce as well as political ties.

Also referred to as the Saudi-Egypt Causeway, the idea has been in development for more than 20 years.

It would run from Sharm el-Sheikh to Tabuk and is expected to take three years to construct. The bridge will be the first direct road link between the two regions.

A spokesperson for the Saudi government commented: “We won’t let anyone discourage us from our construction plans. The Strait of Tiran lies in international waters.”

Written by Erin Marshall