SAUDI ARABIA, October 2025 —High-speed rail remains a cornerstone of Asia’s infrastructure transformation, and Saudi Arabia is emerging as a key player in this movement with bold investments designed to modernize its transportation network and strengthen national connectivity. Through multi-billion-dollar projects, the Kingdom is redefining the future of travel and trade across the Arabian Peninsula.

At the center of this effort is the USD 7 billion Land Bridge Project, a high-speed rail line that will connect Jeddah on the Red Sea to Dammam on the Arabian Gulf, passing through Riyadh. Spanning nearly 1,500 kilometers, the line is expected to cut travel time between Jeddah and Riyadh from about 12 hours by car to under four hours by train. To support the project, Saudi Arabian Railways (SAR) has ordered 15 new trains capable of reaching speeds of 200 kilometers per hour, marking a significant step toward a modern, efficient, and sustainable rail system.

Complementing this is the Qiddiya High-Speed Rail Project, which will connect key destinations including King Salman International Airport, the King Abdullah Financial District, and Qiddiya City. Designed for speeds of up to 250 kilometers per hour, the new line will reduce travel between these major hubs to just 30 minutes. Together, these projects contribute to the Kingdom’s broader plan to expand its railway network from 5,300 kilometers to more than 8,000 kilometers in the coming years.

Once completed, these developments are expected to transform inter-city mobility, boost economic growth, and enhance logistics efficiency across Saudi Arabia. By drastically reducing travel times and linking vital economic and cultural centers, the projects will improve passenger convenience while supporting regional trade and investment.

Saudi Arabia’s ambitious rail strategy underscores its determination to become a leader in sustainable and high-speed transport infrastructure, aligning with Vision 2030 goals for connectivity, diversification, and innovation. Collectively, these advancements position the Kingdom at the forefront of global efforts to modernize and integrate transportation systems for a faster, smarter, and more connected future.

Source: What's On Saudi Arabia