Dammam, December 31, 2024 – Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) has officially launched operational tests for a new freight train track located outside the urban area of Al-Ahsa Governorate, marking a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s transportation infrastructure development. This move is part of a broader effort to enhance the country’s logistics network and is seen as a crucial step in supporting Saudi Arabia's strategic ambitions to become a global logistics hub.
The project, which has been in the works for several months, reflects the strong support and oversight provided by key figures, including Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr, the Governor of Al-Ahsa, and Saleh Al-Jasser, the Minister of Transport and Logistic Services. Their involvement underscores the importance of this initiative to both regional development and the broader goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
The new freight route was first announced in April 2023, and it is set to become fully operational by Tuesday, January 28, 2025. The new track is designed to accommodate the growing demand for efficient freight transportation while minimizing the impact on the urban environment of Al-Ahsa, which has long struggled with traffic congestion and safety concerns due to the proximity of freight train routes to populated areas.
This new freight corridor forms part of the Kingdom’s ambitious National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services, a key initiative aimed at improving transportation infrastructure across Saudi Arabia. The relocation of freight train traffic away from the densely populated urban areas of Al-Ahsa will not only boost road safety but also reduce traffic congestion and enhance overall traffic flow within the governorate. By addressing these issues, the project will significantly improve the quality of life for residents while contributing to the smooth movement of goods across the region.
The project also plays a pivotal role in improving logistics efficiency. By connecting key transport hubs, such as the King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam and the Riyadh Dry Port, the new freight track will increase the flexibility and speed of freight movement between these vital trade centers. This, in turn, will improve the operational efficiency of the Saudi logistics sector, making it more competitive on the global stage while simultaneously supporting the country’s economic growth and urban expansion.
SAR has emphasized that the new track is not just about enhancing logistics but is also aligned with the company’s broader commitment to sustainability and integrated solutions that meet the needs of local populations. As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the transport and logistics services in Al-Ahsa and across the Kingdom, SAR is currently involved in several initiatives to further improve infrastructure, creating a more sustainable and effective transportation network that supports the region’s growing demands.
This latest project is expected to have a positive ripple effect on the local economy, stimulating growth in various sectors by making transportation of goods more efficient and cost-effective. Moreover, the move is a key component of Saudi Arabia’s broader push to modernize its infrastructure and increase its economic and trade integration with global markets.
The launch of operational tests on this new freight track marks a significant achievement for Saudi Arabia Railways, bringing the Kingdom one step closer to achieving its goal of becoming a leading logistics hub in the region and beyond. With further developments planned under the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services, the government’s continued investment in transportation infrastructure promises to bring even greater benefits to the Kingdom, improving connectivity, supporting economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.