Trade, economic growth, and transportation sustainability perspectives of the Gulf-Europe corridor in the GCC countries

Abstract The Gulf-Europe transportation project, also known as Iraq’s Development Road Project (DRP), is a transformative supply chain initiative aimed at constructing a corridor from Al Faw Port in Iraq to Turkey, linking Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries with Europe. The project’s goal is to establish a robust transport corridor through the extensive construction of roads and railways, facilitating the fast and seamless movement of goods between the East and the West. By creating land-based direct transportation routes to complement traditional maritime pathways, the project seeks to reduce transit times, lower shipping costs, increase trade flows, and improve regional integration. This study qualitatively examines how the corridor will impact trade, the economy, and transportation sustainability in the Gulf nations. We explore potential increases in trade volumes, foreign investments, logistics sustainability, and economic diversification within the region. Additionally, we recommend the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (HFCVs) and hydrogen-powered trains in the corridor to align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Furthermore, we suggest that the corridor’s development will create opportunities for economic diversification and reduce the GCC countries' reliance on oil revenues. Finally, the study provides strategic recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders to maximize the project’s benefits and address potential challenges, emphasizing its potential to drive long-term economic growth and strengthen the GCC countries’ global trade positioning.