Khaberni - Saudi Arabia and Qatar signed an agreement on Monday to implement a project for a high-speed electric train for passenger transport, in a step that reflects the depth of brotherly and historical relations between the two countries, according to the Saudi Press Agency "SPA".
SPA explained that the high-speed train would stretch over a distance of 785 kilometers, linking the capitals Riyadh and Doha, passing through major stations including the cities of Hofuf and Dammam and connecting King Salman International Airport and Hamad International Airport; forming a new artery for fast and sustainable transportation, enhancing the regional travel experience with speeds exceeding 300 kilometers per hour, contributing to reducing trip times to approximately two hours between the capitals; thus supporting mobility and enhancing commercial and tourism movement and supporting economic growth and improving quality of life.
It added that the high-speed train would serve more than 10 million passengers annually, and enable travelers to discover landmarks in Saudi Arabia and Qatar with ease, as the project will help provide more than 30,000 direct and indirect jobs.
SPA anticipated that upon completion, the project would have an economic impact of about 115 billion Riyals on the gross domestic product of the two countries; making it one of the most important strategic projects supporting regional development, cementing connectivity and integration among the Gulf Cooperation Council countries through an advanced railway network.
It further explained that the project would be completed in 6 years, according to the highest international standards of quality and safety, and using the latest technologies in railways and smart engineering to ensure safe and smooth operation; achieving environmental sustainability, reducing carbon emissions, and enhancing efforts to support a transition towards more efficient and innovative transportation methods for smart and sustainable mobility in the region.
