In a landmark infrastructure agreement, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Qatar have formally committed to constructing a state-of-the-art high-speed rail network linking their capital cities. The strategic pact, signed during an official state visit by Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Riyadh, was finalized in the presence of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The ambitious railway project will feature fully electric trains capable of exceeding operational speeds of 300 kilometers per hour (186 mph), substantially reducing travel time between Riyadh and Doha to approximately two hours. This development establishes a competitive ground alternative to air travel, with direct flights currently requiring about 90 minutes between the metropolitan hubs.
Beyond the primary capitals, the comprehensive rail network will incorporate strategic stops at key Saudi urban centers including Al-Hofuf and Dammam, enhancing regional connectivity across the Eastern Province. Project planners anticipate the railway will accommodate an estimated 10 million passengers annually upon its scheduled completion within the six-year development timeline.
This transnational infrastructure initiative represents a significant milestone in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) integration efforts, potentially setting a precedent for future cross-border transportation projects. The electric railway system aligns with regional environmental sustainability goals while addressing growing transportation demands between the neighboring nations.