The Emir of Qatar has agreed that the Doha Bay Crossing could go ahead as a bridge if it is a signature bridge, such as Sydney Harbour bridge or the Golden Gate Bridge in San Fransisco.

The Urban Planning Ministry invited international companies to submit concept designs for such a bridge. The ministry then chose 10 companies well-known for designing bridges.

The other option is a 12-kilometre tunnel. If the tunnel option is chosen, the authorities might decide to build an island half way across the bay that would house a traffic operation centre, diving school and a public beach. The crossing will directly link the New Doha International airport with the centre of Doha.