The Saudi 28 km tunnels are considered to be one of the world’s largest transportation and utility infrastructure projects.

The contracts have been awarded to two joint venture groups.

The first is with FCC Construction SA/China State Construction Engineering Corporation/Shibh Al-Jazira Contracting Company Joint Venture (FCC/CSCEC/SAJCO JV).

The second goes to Samsung C&T Corporation /Hyundai Engineering and Construction Co. Ltd/Saudi Archirodon Company Ltd Joint Venture (SHAJV) is the second one.

The works will also provide separate tunnels for high-speed and freight rail services making the movement of people and goods faster, safer, and easier.

The rock excavated will be reutilized in the tunnel completion and other projects within NEOM to ensure minimal impact on natural landscapes.

Nadhmi Al-Nasr, CEO of NEOM, stated: “Today marks yet another significant milestone for NEOM. The sheer scope and scale of the tunneling work to be undertaken highlight the complexity and ambition of the project.

"At NEOM, we are inspiring a new way of living, making seamless mobility possible, reducing emissions, and protecting our environment.

"We are not only making a giant leap for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, but we are also establishing a model for sustainable living around the world.”