Saudi Arabia is seeking to redirect a planned fibre-optic cable route linking the Gulf to Europe so that it passes through Syria rather than Israel, according to officials familiar with regional infrastructure discussions.

The proposal relates to a subsea and overland digital corridor intended to connect Gulf states with Greece and onward European networks, part of a wider push to strengthen data connectivity between Asia, the Middle East and Europe.

The original concept reportedly envisaged a route transiting Israel before reaching the Mediterranean.

Riyadh is now advocating for an alternative alignment through Syrian territory.

Saudi officials have not publicly detailed the rationale, but regional analysts say the move reflects a combination of geopolitical, commercial and strategic considerations.

Syria’s potential reintegration into broader Arab economic frameworks has accelerated in recent years, and Gulf states have explored infrastructure and reconstruction opportunities as diplomatic ties gradually reopen.

The shift, if confirmed, would carry implications for regional connectivity initiatives at a time when Middle Eastern countries are competing to position themselves as critical digital transit hubs.

Fibre-optic corridors are increasingly viewed as strategic assets, underpinning data flows, financial services and emerging technologies.

Israel has developed advanced digital infrastructure and has previously positioned itself as a bridge between Asia and Europe through both maritime and terrestrial links.

A change in routing could alter commercial partnerships and affect existing proposals involving Israeli infrastructure.

Greece has been actively expanding its role as a gateway for data traffic into the European Union, investing in submarine cable landing stations and cross-border networks.

The final configuration of the Gulf-Europe link will depend on political agreements, regulatory approvals and financing arrangements among the participating states.

Neither Saudi nor Israeli officials have publicly confirmed final decisions regarding the route.

Discussions are ongoing, and infrastructure planning of this scale typically involves multiple stakeholders and extended negotiation timelines.

The outcome will be closely watched as an indicator of evolving regional alignments and competition over digital trade corridors.