Africa to Asia in 30 Minutes: Egypt, Saudi Arabia Set to Launch Red Sea Bridge Project

In a step toward deepening regional cooperation, Egypt and Saudi Arabia have unveiled plans to construct a monumental bridge across the Red Sea, connecting Africa and Asia. Estimated at $4 billion, the 32-kilometre structure dubbed the Moses Bridge will link Sharm El-Sheikh in Egypt to Ras Alsheikh Hamid in Saudi Arabia, passing through Tiran Island.

According to Egypt’s Minister of Transport, Kamel al-Wazir, detailed planning for the project is complete, and the two countries are poised to begin construction. “Whether as a bridge or a tunnel, we are fully prepared to begin implementation,” he said.

The bridge is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two nations, allowing motorists to cross in just 30 minutes. This new route promises to transform both trade and tourism, with Egyptian officials anticipating a fourfold increase in Saudi tourist arrivals up from 300,000 to over 1.2 million annually.

Beyond tourism, the Moses Bridge is projected to be a vital artery for trade, especially across the strategically important Strait of Tiran. It aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 an ambitious blueprint to diversify the Kingdom’s economy through infrastructure, tourism, and cross-border partnerships.

King Salman bin Abdulaziz described the project as a “qualitative transformation” poised to elevate trade volumes and deepen intercontinental collaboration. For Egypt, it’s an opportunity to cement its role as a critical gateway between Africa and Asia, boosting national infrastructure and geopolitical significance.

However, the project has raised environmental concerns. Conservationists warn of potential threats to the Red Sea’s marine ecosystems, particularly around the ecologically sensitive Strait of Tiran, home to rich coral reefs and endangered wildlife. In response, Saudi authorities have pledged to implement sustainable construction practices to mitigate harm.

While an official construction start date has yet to be confirmed, estimates suggest the bridge could take up to eight years to complete due to the region’s complex marine terrain and seismic activity.

For Egypt and Saudi Arabia, this bridge is a shared symbol of progress, vision, and unity. If completed, the Moses Bridge would stand among the longest sea-crossing bridges in the world.