Saudi Arabia and Qatar have announced a landmark high speed electric rail project that will slash travel time between Riyadh and Doha to just two hours while creating more than 30,000 jobs. The ambitious 785 kilometer railway will connect the two capitals through major cities, boost regional trade and tourism, and serve over 10 million passengers annually, marking a major step in Gulf cooperation and sustainable development.
Strategic partnership in motion
On Monday, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Qatar formalized their commitment to enhanced cooperation by signing an agreement for a high-speed rail link. The ceremony was witnessed by Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.The agreement was signed by Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics Saleh Al-Jasser and Qatari Minister of Transport Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Thani during the Saudi-Qatari Coordination Council meetings. Officials described the project as a strategic step to deepen bilateral cooperation, integrate development efforts, and advance sustainable growth across the region.
High speed rail: A modern artery
The planned railway spans 785 kilometers, connecting Riyadh and Doha with stops in key cities including Al-Hofuf and Dammam. It will link King Salman International Airport in Riyadh with Hamad International Airport in Doha, forming a rapid transit corridor designed to operate at speeds exceeding 300 kilometers per hour.Travel time between the two capitals will be slashed to approximately two hours, a development expected to enhance mobility, boost trade and tourism, and improve overall quality of life. The project is designed to serve over 10 million passengers annually, offering travelers easy access to cultural and business destinations in both countries.
Economic and social impact
The high speed rail is projected to have a significant economic footprint. It is expected to generate more than 30,000 direct and indirect jobs and contribute around 115 billion riyals to the combined GDP of Saudi Arabia and Qatar.Officials highlighted the project’s potential to strengthen ties within the Gulf Cooperation Council, positioning it as a model for regional integration. The railway also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, supporting broader goals of economic diversification, infrastructure development, and enhanced regional connectivity.Trade between the two nations has already seen remarkable growth, reaching $930.3 million in 2024, a 634 percent increase since 2021, underscoring the growing economic interdependence. Leaders emphasized the importance of leveraging this momentum to diversify trade, overcome logistical challenges, and invest in priority sectors.
Commitment to sustainability and innovation
The project is scheduled for completion within six years, adhering to the highest international standards of quality and safety. Advanced railway technologies and smart engineering will ensure smooth, efficient, and safe operations.Environmental sustainability is a key component, with the system designed to reduce carbon emissions and support the shift toward innovative, eco-friendly transport solutions. By combining speed, efficiency, and sustainability, the railway is poised to transform regional travel while supporting long-term developmental goals.
