RIYADH, October 2025 — The Saudi International Rail Exhibition and Conference, held in Riyadh from October 19-20, 2025, served as a pivotal forum for regional leaders to deliberate on the future of rail infrastructure and its critical role in driving economic development across Asia and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Bahrain's active participation underscored the increasing emphasis on cross-border rail connectivity and logistical integration within the region.

Dr. Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Bahrain's Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, highlighted the strategic importance of the King Hamad Causeway project. This initiative is positioned as an essential component for the GCC's logistical integration, designed to seamlessly connect Bahrain's national rail network with Saudi Arabia's extensive railway system. The planned King Hamad International Station is slated to become a significant hub for transport and logistics within Bahrain.

The development and enhancement of such integrated rail infrastructure are anticipated to yield substantial economic benefits and significantly boost regional trade. By improving connectivity and streamlining transit, these projects aim to foster greater economic interdependence and efficiency among GCC member states, facilitating smoother movement of goods and people.

Bahrain is actively strengthening its multimodal transport network by enhancing connections between Khalifa bin Salman Port, Bahrain International Airport, and its logistics zones, aiming for effective integration across sea, air, and land. This strategic approach aligns with Bahrain's Economic Vision 2030. Furthermore, the Kingdom has established a robust regulatory framework, including Decree-Law (35) of 2025, to govern international land transport among GCC states, ensuring comprehensive oversight of transport operations, safety, and customs procedures.

The broader adoption of integrated railway solutions, as championed at the conference, offers a pathway to improved traffic flow, reduced carbon emissions, and more efficient supply chains. Bahrain's commitment to embracing advanced digital technologies and smart systems is set to enhance its position in global logistics performance indicators and contribute to sustainable economic growth across the region.

Source: BNA