Doha — Qatar has formally approved the construction of a new railway line connecting Doha with Saudi Arabia, a project seen as a milestone in advancing regional transport integration.
The decision was confirmed at the weekly cabinet meeting on October 8, chaired by Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al‑Thani.
The planned line will run from Doha to Abu Samra, on the Saudi border, where it will connect with the wider Gulf Railway network. This regional project aims to link all six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, creating a unified rail corridor for both passengers and freight.
Strategic Importance
- The railway is part of Qatar’s 2050 Transport Plan, which envisions a modern, interconnected system.
- Passenger services will link Doha’s central terminal with Hamad International Airport.
- Freight services will connect the Saudi line to Hamad Port and Mesaieed Industrial City, strengthening Qatar’s logistics capacity.
Regional Impact
The project is expected to:
- Enhance cross‑border trade and tourism.
- Reduce reliance on road transport.
- Reinforce Qatar’s role as a logistics hub in the Gulf.
- Symbolize the deepening of ties between Doha and Riyadh following the 2021 reconciliation.
Next Steps
While no construction timeline has been announced, approval signals a strong political and economic commitment. Once operational, the Doha–Saudi rail link will form a critical segment of the Gulf Railway, supporting economic diversification and regional integration.
