This agreement to build a high-speed electric rail line is the first of its kind between Saudi Arabia and Qatar, two countries that were once strong rivals.
Announced on December 8, 2025, the 785-kilometer project will connect King Salman International Airport in Riyadh to Hamad International Airport in Doha, passing through Al-Hofuf and Dammam. Trains will travel over 300 km/h (186 mph), making the trip just two hours, which is even faster than the 90-minute direct flight.
The project is expected to be finished in six years. It will serve 10 million passengers annually and create 30,000 jobs in both countries, supporting Saudi Vision 2030 and Qatar National Vision 2030.
Saudi Transport Minister Saleh Al-Jasser and his Qatari counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani signed the agreement during the emir’s visit to Riyadh. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani were present at the signing.
This deal marks a new chapter after years of improving relations. In 2017, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, and Egypt imposed a blockade on Qatar, accusing it of supporting the Muslim Brotherhood and Iran. The blockade ended at the AlUla summit in 2021. Since then, leaders have met often, supported Gaza ceasefires, and worked together on regional diplomacy. In September 2025, they were involved in an Israeli attack on a Hamas facility in Doha, which killed six people.
This project is more than just a railway; it is a step toward stronger economic and cultural ties in the Gulf region.
