NEOM, Saudi Arabia awarded drill and blast tunneling contracts for work on the region’s infrastructure, which is considered one of the world’s largest transportation and utility infrastructure projects, and it is an essential element in ensuring NEOM continues to meet its development schedule.

Two joint venture groups will undertake the project, which is separated by lower and upper geographies,

• First contract awarded to FCC Construction SA/China State Construction Engineering Corporation/Shibh Al-Jazira Contracting Company Joint Venture (FCC/CSCEC/SAJCO JV).
• The second contract has been awarded to Samsung C&T Corporation/Hyundai Engineering and Construction Co. Ltd/Saudi Archirodon Company Ltd Joint Venture (SHAJV).

The tunnels work will deliver over 28 kilometers in length and provide separate tunnels for high-speed and freight rail services — making the movement of people and goods faster, safer and easier.

The rock excavated as part of this tunneling project will be processed for subsequent reuse within the permanent concrete lining of the tunnels and other projects within NEOM to ensure minimal impact to natural landscapes.