Saudi Arabia and Qatar have signed a historic agreement to build a 785‑kilometre high‑speed electric railway linking their capitals, a major infrastructure project signalling deepening ties between the once‑estranged Gulf neighbours. The deal, announced in Riyadh and Doha, marks the first rail link of its kind between the two states and is expected to reshape regional mobility and economic integration.
A Two‑Hour Journey at 300 km/h
According to official statements, the railway will connect Riyadh’s King Salman International Airport with Doha’s Hamad International Airport, with additional stops in the Saudi cities of Al‑Hofuf and Dammam. Trains will exceed 300 km/h, cutting travel time between the capitals to around two hours, compared with a 90‑minute direct flight Al Jazeera The New Arab.
The project is slated for completion within six years and is expected to serve 10 million passengers annually, according to Saudi and Qatari officials Arabian Business Xinhuanet.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
Beyond transport, the railway is projected to deliver a significant economic boost. Estimates suggest the link could generate $31 billion in economic impact and create 30,000 jobs across both countries, supporting tourism, logistics and cross‑border commerce Arabian Business.
The agreement was signed under the framework of the Saudi‑Qatari Coordination Council, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani witnessing the ceremony — a symbolic moment underscoring the strength of post‑reconciliation relations Arabian Business Xinhuanet.
A Strategic Step Toward Gulf Connectivity
Officials say the high‑speed line will be built to the highest international standards and represents a strategic step toward a more integrated Gulf transport network. The project also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030 infrastructure ambitions and Qatar’s push to expand regional connectivity.
The rail link is expected to enhance mobility for residents, boost business travel, and support long‑term economic diversification efforts across the Gulf.
