UAE and Saudi Arabia to Be Linked by New 96km Power Line

The Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority has signed a series of agreements to expand its network with the UAE and establish a direct link with Oman. The plan is designed to strengthen energy security across the region while supporting long-term goals for cleaner, more flexible power systems.

At the core of the UAE–Saudi project is a 96-kilometre, double-circuit 400 kV line linking Al Sila in the UAE with Salwa in Saudi Arabia. Three existing stations – Ghunan, Al Sila and Salwa – will undergo major upgrades, including new breakers, reactors and advanced protection systems. Construction is scheduled to begin in late 2025 and finish in the final quarter of 2027.

A parallel expansion will connect the Authority’s network directly with Oman through a 530-kilometre 400 kV linebetween Al Sila and a new station in Ibri, supported by an additional substation in Al Baynunah. The link will include a STATCOM stabilisation unit, bringing total transfer capacity to around 1,600 megawatts when the project enters service in 2027.

According to the Authority, the cross-border expansion will reduce generation costs, increase energy-trading opportunities and improve grid stability across the GCC. It is also expected to help cut carbon emissions by enabling more efficient use of regional power resources and supporting the transition to cleaner energy.