Saudi Arabia Advances Major Riyadh Rail Link to Boost Connectivity

Saudi Arabia is pressing ahead with another key infrastructure initiative as part of its broader Vision 2030 program, with a new rail link in Riyadh expected to enhance both passenger mobility and freight logistics across the capital.

According to a report by MEED, the project involves the construction of a 35-kilometer line designed to connect the North–South Railway with the Eastern Railway. The new corridor will merge two of the Kingdom’s most important rail arteries, creating a more integrated network within Riyadh and strengthening links with other regions.

The Saudi Railway Company (SAR) has opened prequalification for developers and contractors interested in participating in the project. Submissions are due in October, after which shortlisted companies will be invited to bid for one of the capital’s most strategically significant rail ventures.

Industry analysts note that once completed, the line will reduce congestion, improve passenger travel options, and provide more efficient freight movement. By creating a direct link between the North–South and Eastern lines, the project is expected to streamline logistics, support trade flows, and enable faster, more reliable connections across the Kingdom.

The rail link is also seen as a cornerstone of Riyadh’s urban growth strategy. Officials have emphasized that transport upgrades such as this are critical to supporting the city’s expanding population and economic activities, while also improving quality of life through reduced travel times and better connectivity.

The initiative aligns closely with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 blueprint, which positions modern infrastructure as a driver of economic diversification and sustainable development. Investment in integrated rail systems is intended to lay the foundation for smarter cities, increased competitiveness, and long-term growth.

The October prequalification deadline marks an important milestone in the project’s rollout and underlines the government’s continued commitment to building a modern national rail network. The development reflects Saudi Arabia’s ambition to transform Riyadh into a leading global capital and a regional transport hub.

Source: MEED