Innovative Tunnel Project Connecting Spain and Morocco Inspires Elon Musk

Monday 09 June 2025 - 16:36

By: Zahouani Ilham

Innovative Tunnel Project Connecting Spain and Morocco Inspires Elon Musk

The planned continental tunnel project connecting Spain and Morocco has inspired Canadian-American entrepreneur Elon Musk, who aims to develop a similar initiative in the United Arab Emirates called the "Dubai Loop."

According to the newspaper El Faro de Ceuta, Musk’s "Dubai Loop" project resembles the tunnel Spain and Morocco plan to build in the coming years to link their territories through an underwater tunnel beneath the Strait of Gibraltar.

Musk unveiled the "Dubai Loop," an innovative underground transportation system expected to revolutionize urban mobility in Dubai. Developed by his company, The Boring Company, the project seeks to reduce traffic congestion by offering an environmentally friendly and efficient alternative to traditional transportation in one of the world’s most innovative cities.

The "Dubai Loop" will consist of approximately 17 kilometers of underground tunnels connecting major city areas through 100 transport stations.

Self-driving electric vehicles known as "Tesla Pods" will travel through the tunnels at speeds up to 160 km/h, initially transporting up to 20,000 passengers per hour, with capacity expected to increase in later stages.

One of the project's main advantages is its focus on sustainability and safety. Being underground, the system is protected from harsh weather and natural phenomena like sandstorms, common in the region. The tunnels will also feature advanced ventilation and fire protection systems to ensure passenger safety.

The UAE’s Minister of Artificial Intelligence, Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, highlighted that the project reflects Dubai’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, positioning the city as a global leader in urban mobility solutions.

Musk described the system as a "wormhole" that will enable rapid travel between points within the city, significantly improving urban quality of life.

Although construction has not yet begun, collaboration between The Boring Company and Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) marks a crucial step toward realizing this innovative transportation system.