The Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA) has sealed a landmark financing agreement with Qatar Development Fund (QDF) that paves the way for a transformative direct grid connection project linking the GCC network with Oman.

This project marks a pivotal stride toward the seamless integration of Gulf power grids, a strategic initiative designed to fortify connectivity and bolster the reliability and sustainability of the region’s electricity systems. 

The project involves the construction of two 400 kV overhead transmission lines connecting the Al Sila station in the UAE to the Ibri station, which the GCCIA will construct in Oman. The total length of the lines will be 530 km. The project also includes the construction of two 400 kV substations, one in Ibri and the other in Al Baynunah.  These substations will be equipped with advanced control, protection, and communication systems to ensure reliability, efficiency, and safety.

A dynamic compensator station will also be installed to bolster grid stability and increase transmission capacity. This interconnection project will provide a total transmission capacity of 1,700 MW, with a net transfer capacity of 1,200 MW.

Launched in 2009, the GCCIA’s interconnection network has prevented over 2,800 electrical outages in member states through the instantaneous transmission of required power across the interconnection network.

The authority has prioritised the expansion and modernisation of electrical linkages both within and between member states, resulting in several key network expansion projects, including the direct connection with Oman.

GCCIA Chief Executive Officer Engineer Ahmed Ali Al Ebrahim said work on the project is set to begin in the second half of 2025, with commissioning planned for the first half of 2027.