Saudi-Qatar High-Speed Railway Agreement Signed By Crown Prince And Amir To Enhance Regional Connectivity

His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, alongside Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, observed the signing of a significant agreement. This agreement aims to establish a high-speed electric railway linking Saudi Arabia and Qatar, highlighting the strong historical ties between the nations.

The project will span 785 kilometers, connecting Riyadh and Doha with key stops in Hofuf and Dammam. It will also link King Salman International Airport and Hamad International Airport. The train is designed to travel over 300 kilometers per hour, reducing travel time between the capitals to about two hours.

Expected to be completed in six years, this railway project promises substantial economic benefits. It is projected to contribute approximately SAR115 billion to the GDP of both countries. Additionally, it will create more than 30,000 direct and indirect jobs, serving over 10 million passengers annually.

The agreement was signed by Saleh Al-Jasser, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani, Qatar's Minister of Transport. This collaboration falls under the Saudi-Qatari Coordination Council's framework, aiming for enhanced cooperation and sustainable development.

Utilising cutting-edge railway technologies and smart engineering practices ensures safe operations that meet international quality standards. The railway will significantly reduce carbon emissions, promoting environmentally friendly transportation solutions in the region.

This high-speed rail line is poised to become a vital component in regional development. It strengthens connectivity among Gulf Cooperation Council countries by enhancing mobility, boosting trade and tourism, and improving residents' quality of life.

The project underscores a shared commitment to regional prosperity by fostering developmental integration. It represents a strategic move towards innovative transportation patterns that support smart mobility across the region.

With inputs from SPA