Saudi Arabia is set to experience unprecedented growth in its rail network, expanding to over 8,000 kilometers in the coming years, stated Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) chairman Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser recently as he inaugurated the first edition of the Saudi Rail Conference and Exhibition. “This expansion will further solidify Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics hub,” he added.
Al-Jasser emphasized that these developments align with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, a cornerstone of Saudi Vision 2030.
Saudi Arabia’s key rail networks
Al-Jasser underscored Saudi Arabia’s progress in rail development, noting that the current network spans over 5,500 kilometers. He highlighted key networks, including the North Network, which connects Riyadh to the Jordanian border, and the East Network, linking Riyadh to the Arabian Gulf coast.
Al-Jasser also emphasized the Haramain High-Speed Railway (HHR), a cutting-edge electric rail system connecting the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. The HHR, since its launch in 2018, has become one of the fastest in the world, serving over 20 million passengers and reducing road freight traffic by more than one million truck trips over the past year.
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Asasat Program to generate SAR15 billion investment opportunities by 2030
During the conference, Al-Jasser introduced the Asasat Program, which aims to localize the rail industry in Saudi Arabia. The program will generate investment opportunities worth SAR15 billion ($4 billion) by 2030, increase local content in SAR’s operations to 60 percent by 2025, and create over 3,000 jobs in the local market.
The opening day also witnessed the signing of several agreements and memoranda of cooperation between participating entities, fostering collaboration and partnerships within the sector. Attendees also explored advanced technologies and solutions that seek to enhance railway efficiency and effectiveness. Both local and international exhibitors showcased innovative offerings that highlighted the future of rail transport.
The conference, hosted by SAR as a strategic partner, underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to becoming a leading player in the regional and global rail sector. In addition, it reflects Saudi Arabia’s dedication to building state-of-the-art infrastructure that supports its Vision 2030 goals. Al-Jasser affirmed SAR’s commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration across public and private sectors to develop sustainable and efficient transport solutions, positioning Saudi Arabia as a trailblazer in railway development.
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