“It takes a long time to export anything to Saudi Arabia with the existing road. The new road will cut travel time by more than half. We have to drive for nearly 18 hours to reach Saudi Arabia. I calculate that the new road will take only six hours.” 

–Khamis Al Shibli, 44, an Omani fish exporter from the town of Ibri in Oman discussing the almost complete 720 kilometer road from Ibri, Oman to Alkwifriah, Saudi Arabia. Originally scheduled for completion in 2014 the $475 million project passes straight through the Rub Al Khali desert. [The National]