A consortium of three American AIs and a human tech team has developed a viable proposal for a canal system that would bypass the Strait of Hormuz, potentially neutralizing Iran's ability to threaten Gulf oil exports. The plan, which involves constructing two 116-kilometer sea-level canals within the United Arab Emirates, aims to provide a secure alternative route for the world's largest oil tankers, saving time and reducing geopolitical risks.
The proposed canals would run from Fujairah Port to Sharjah Port Khalid, cutting through the Hajar Mountains. Each canal would be 83 meters wide, capable of accommodating Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) and Ultra Large Container Ships. The project is estimated to cost under $100 billion and could be completed within four to five years, a significant improvement over previous proposals that were deemed too expensive and slow.
Francis Sullivan, a spokesman for the consortium, emphasized the role of advanced AI in solving complex engineering and logistical challenges. "Our target was to see if we could build a canal system in under 5 years and costing less than $100 billion including reusable mega cutting equipment. The solutions are cleverer than humans could achieve on their own," he said. The consortium believes that if adopted, non-Iranian ships could avoid the Strait of Hormuz entirely by around 2031.
The plan incorporates innovative construction techniques, including AI-controlled mega machines that use laser, water jet, and zirconia wheels for cutting, as well as modular systems for waste removal and canal lining. The use of drones and autonomous geotechnical mapping would accelerate environmental assessments and design phases. The consortium also highlights the involvement of Chinese mega engineering teams, citing their recent completion of a 135-kilometer canal in five years as evidence of their capability.
Geopolitically, the proposal could position the UAE as a dominant energy transit hub, with expanded storage facilities in Fujairah making it the largest oil storage and trading hub outside the Strait of Hormuz. The ownership structure would likely involve the UAE, Gulf Cooperation Council states, and key energy importers such as Japan, South Korea, and potentially China. If China retains a small interest, any attack on the canals could be considered an attack on China, adding a layer of deterrence.
The project also addresses environmental and safety concerns. The canals would be lined with sealed 'Roman' concrete or basalt, and an automated oil spill response system would be integrated to handle any ruptures. The design includes passing docks and winching systems to assist disabled vessels, ensuring continuous transit.
Captain Richard Byrne, COO of Green Growth Technology, highlighted the strategic importance: "This is a safe passage that saves 18 hours and over 350km and the clever tech just makes that happen." The consortium is currently in discussions with regional power brokers, and funding is expected to be secured given the project's cost-effectiveness compared to alternative proposals.
The announcement comes amid ongoing tensions with Iran, which has previously threatened to disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The new canal system would significantly reduce the international community's reliance on this chokepoint, thereby enhancing global energy security. As the world watches, the feasibility and political will to undertake such a massive infrastructure project will be closely scrutinized.
