A 45-km causeway between Qatar and Bahrain is a step closer to reality with the completion of a feasibility study commissioned by both governments.

Qatari ambassador Shaikh Abdulla bin Thamer Al Thani said Denmark-based engineering consultancy Cowi has finished its causeway report, and that its findings have been submitted to both governments.

"The study has been presented to members of the Qatar-Bahrain Causeway Joint Committee, which was formed last year after the rulers of both countries announced their intention to build the $2 billion causeway," he said.

Shaikh Abdulla said if the go-ahead for the project is given, it would take up to four years for the world's longest causeway to be ready.

"The causeway would extend from Ras Eshairig in western Qatar to the southern tip of Bahrain, perhaps near Durrat Al Bahrain."