The ambitious idea of connecting Africa and Europe through an underwater rail tunnel under the Strait of Gibraltar, a project conceived more than three decades ago, is resurfacing with force. Driven by political will, increased investment, and advances in technical studies, the project is no longer a pipe dream but a tangible possibility.

This project, which goes beyond a simple engineering project, is part of a long-term strategic vision that seeks to strengthen regional cooperation and overcome geopolitical barriers.

The underwater rail connection would radically transform transportation between the two continents, bringing together two worlds separated by the sea but united by the desire to connect.

Although the first proposals to unite Spain and Morocco emerged in the 1980s, economic difficulties, technical limitations, and diplomatic tensions hindered its development.

After years of stagnation, the project was officially reactivated in April 2023 thanks to a meeting between the then Spanish Minister of Transport, Raquel Sánchez, and her Moroccan counterpart.

Since then, investment has increased significantly. The Spanish public company Secegsa, responsible for the feasibility studies, saw its budget increase from €100.000 in 2022 to €2,7 million in 2024, supplemented by an additional €2 million from the European Union's Recovery and Resilience Facility. This financial support has made it possible to boost research and mobilize high-level experts.

The initial design contemplated two tunnels, one for trains and one for vehicles. However, current studies prioritize the construction of a single rail tunnel for passengers and freight, a decision based on criteria of feasibility, profitability, safety, and sustainability.

Of the two routes considered since 2007—the Canyon Route, shorter but at greater depth, and the Umbral Route, longer but shallower—the latter was chosen. At 28 kilometers underwater and 300 meters deep, the Umbral Route presents fewer geological risks.

The entire project, including the land sections, would be approximately 60 kilometers long, even exceeding the length of the Channel Tunnel (50,5 km).

Two crucial studies are currently underway to confirm the project's technical feasibility. The first, led by Herrenknecht Ibérica, is evaluating the safest and most effective drilling methods at the Camarinal Sill, an underwater elevation between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.

This study, which will run until July 2025, will provide essential data for the final design. The second study, led by Tekpam Engineering, analyzes seismic activity in the region.

Although temporarily suspended for safety reasons, this study is expected to resume soon and continue until September 2025.

The project faces significant technical challenges, including the Strait's strong ocean currents, its complex geology, and the area's seismic activity. Furthermore, Morocco's rail infrastructure, especially in the north of the country, will require modernization and electrification to ensure a smooth connection.

Regarding financing, preliminary estimates, not yet official, exceed €15.000 billion. Solid co-financing agreements between Spain, Morocco, and the European Union will be required.