Construction on the Erbil–Koya Strategic Road Project is advancing steadily, representing a key milestone in the Kurdistan Regional Government’s ongoing efforts to modernize the region’s infrastructure.
Built to international standards, the project aims to enhance regional connectivity, improve road safety, and strengthen economic integration across Erbil and Koya.
The new highway spans 37 kilometres and will feature three lanes in each direction, with each lane measuring 12 metres wide. The carriageway will be paved with three layers of asphalt, totalling 22 centimetres in thickness to ensure durability and a smoother driving experience.
To improve safety and water management, the design includes six overpasses, five underbridges, a 250-metre main bridge, and 160 concrete waterways to prevent seasonal flooding.
Related: Upgrading Erbil–Duhok Connectivity: Ba’adre–Etit Highway Progress
With route clearance completed, work on overpasses and underbridges is now in progress. The entire project is being implemented by local contractors and labour, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting the domestic construction sector. Officials have confirmed that progress remains ahead of schedule.
Once completed, the new Erbil–Koya highway will replace the existing single-lane route with a modern multi-lane carriageway. The upgrade is expected to cut travel time to just 27 minutes, making travel between the two cities safer, faster, and more efficient for both commuters and commercial transport.
Source: Kurdistan Regional Government – Department of Media and Information.


