Dar Al Handasah Appointed for study on $4bn Qatar–Bahrain Causeway

Doha, Qatar: Leading Lebanese consultancy Dar Al Handasah has been appointed to carry out a comprehensive feasibility study for the long-awaited Qatar–Bahrain causeway, a strategic infrastructure project valued at approximately $4 billion, according to a report by MEED.

Dar Al Handasah has secured a QAR 28 million ($7.7 million) contract to undertake financial, economic, social, and environmental studies for the proposed 40-kilometre causeway, also known as the Friendship Bridge. The appointment marks a significant step forward for a project that has been under discussion for more than a decade and is seen as a critical link between the two neighbouring Gulf states.

Strategic cross-border connectivity

Once completed, the causeway will connect Bahrain’s eastern coast with the northern region of Qatar, providing a direct overland route between the two countries. The infrastructure is expected to comprise a dual two-lane highway and is planned to form part of the wider GCC rail network, enhancing regional connectivity, trade flows, and economic integration.

The feasibility studies will assess the project’s overall viability, including its long-term economic impact, environmental considerations, and social implications, forming the foundation for future investment and implementation decisions.

Competitive tender process

The tender for the consultancy contract was issued in June last year, with bids submitted on 21 August. A number of major international firms competed for the assignment, including WS Atkins & Partners, Khatib & Alami, Boston Consulting Group, Oliver Wyman, Arthur D Little, AT Kearney, and Egis. According to the report, the contract was likely awarded in mid-December.

Dar Al Handasah’s appointment reflects its extensive regional experience in delivering large-scale infrastructure and transportation projects across the Middle East and beyond.

Renewed momentum for the Friendship Bridge

The Qatar–Bahrain causeway regained momentum in February last year when the two countries agreed to restructure the project’s board of directors, as previously reported by MEED. This followed a meeting between officials from both states in November 2024, during which it was agreed that plans for the Friendship Bridge would be restarted after a prolonged pause.

At the same time, the two governments instructed the relevant authorities to finalise preparations required to initiate project implementation, signalling renewed political and institutional backing for the cross-border link.

If progressed to construction, the Friendship Bridge is expected to play a transformative role in strengthening economic ties between Qatar and Bahrain, supporting trade, tourism, and logistics while contributing to broader GCC infrastructure integration objectives.