Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi has approved financial allocations to construct buildings and facilities at the Al-Jamima border crossing with Saudi Arabia. The decision aims to finalise preparations for the expected opening of the border point in 2027.
Al-Muthanna Governor Tawfiq Al-Hassani said in a statement on Saturday that the project includes rehabilitating the highway connecting the city of Samawah to the Saudi border. These infrastructure upgrades will stimulate trade and strengthen the local economy.
The governorate will also draw revenue from the border crossing under established legal frameworks. Local authorities are collaborating with the provincial council to finalise operational requirements.
The Al-Jamima crossing in the Al-Muthanna desert historically served as a primary pilgrimage route. Iraq and Saudi Arabia currently conduct land trade through the Arar border crossing in Al-Anbar Governorate, which resumed operations in 2020 after a closure lasting nearly three decades.
Former parliamentarian Haider Al-Mulla said the infrastructure project shows the federal government’s broader strategy to expand economic ties with neighboring countries. Enhancing trade, energy, and transportation partnerships with Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Syria directly serves national interests.
Prime Minister Al-Zaidi stated during a television interview on Friday that Baghdad is committed to building strong ties with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations. He emphasized the government’s diplomatic and economic focus on the region.
Meanwhile, local authorities in Najaf Governorate reported that security along the frontier with Saudi Arabia remains completely stable. Officials confirmed that security forces have recorded zero breaches along the border fence.
