Iraq Development Road project to boost economy by 20% as the country prepares for one of its largest modern infrastructure initiatives. The $17 billion plan links the Gulf to Europe through Turkiye, positioning Iraq as a major regional transit hub.
Mudher Saleh, financial adviser to Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, explained the project’s scale and impact. He described the 1,200-kilometer corridor as a vital connection between Iraq’s al-Faw port in the south and Turkiye. The route will include railways and highways, forming the backbone of a modern logistics system.
Saleh highlighted that the Iraq Development Road project to boost economy by 20% goes beyond transportation. The corridor will support free economic zones, industrial cities, and advanced logistical services. These new hubs will create long-term opportunities and add significant value to Iraq’s gross domestic product.
Employment growth represents another key outcome. Saleh estimated that the Development Road could create jobs for around one million Iraqis. At the same time, it will attract sustained regional and international investment, bringing financial flows that strengthen national development.
The project also offers Iraq resilience against global economic shifts. By connecting trade between the Gulf and Europe, Iraq reduces its dependence on oil revenues. Saleh stated that the project’s contribution could eventually rival the importance of oil if integrated with broader national strategies.
He added that the road supports Iraq’s vision of diversifying its economy. It can enhance industry, trade, and services while improving long-term sustainability. Analysts believe this initiative marks a turning point in Iraq’s efforts to reduce vulnerability to oil price volatility.
The Iraq Development Road project to boost economy by 20% also carries geopolitical weight. It positions Iraq as a vital link between Asia and Europe. Neighboring countries and investors are closely watching its progress, recognizing its potential to reshape trade routes across the region.
The agreement to launch the Development Road was signed in cooperation with Turkiye, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar. Regional leaders, including Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, endorsed the plan as a shared vision for regional growth.
If implemented effectively, the Development Road will become one of the largest logistics projects in the Middle East. For Iraq, it represents not only infrastructure but also a new path toward economic transformation.