Saudi Arabia Landbridge Railway: Transforming Freight and Passenger Transport Across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Landbridge Project is set to revolutionize transportation within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, offering a seamless railway connection between the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf. As part of the broader Saudi Railways Expansion Programme, this monumental infrastructure project will play a key role in boosting economic activity, reducing cargo transit time, and enhancing regional connectivity.

Saudi Arabia Landbridge Railway: Transforming Freight and Passenger Transport Across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

A Groundbreaking National Railway Project

The centerpiece of the Landbridge project is the construction of a 1,300-kilometre-long railway line, designed to handle both passenger and freight traffic. It will become Saudi Arabia's first direct rail link between Jeddah on the Red Sea coast and Dammam on the Arabian Gulf, passing through the capital city, Riyadh.

This extensive network includes:

• A 950-kilometre railway line connecting Jeddah to Riyadh.
• A 115-kilometre railway segment between Dammam and Jubail.
• Expansion and enhancement of the existing Riyadh–Dammam railway line.

With these developments, the Landbridge will establish itself as a critical corridor for trade, tourism, and logistics in the region.

Boosting Global Trade Connectivity

Once completed, the Landbridge will significantly reduce freight transportation times across the Kingdom. Cargo will travel from Jeddah's Red Sea port to King Abdul Aziz Port in Dammam in approximately 12 hours. This optimized transit time will create a fast-track link for goods moving between East Asia, Europe, and America, positioning Saudi Arabia as a strategic logistics hub in the global supply chain.

High-Speed Rail Design

The Saudi Landbridge Project is designed with cutting-edge railway technology. The passenger trains are expected to operate at speeds of up to 250 km/h, ensuring quick and comfortable travel across the country. Meanwhile, freight trains will travel at speeds of 140 km/h, allowing for efficient goods movement with minimal delays.

Project Scope and Vision

This multi-billion-dollar initiative reflects the Kingdom’s ambitious vision to modernize its transportation infrastructure in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. Beyond just laying railway tracks, the project includes:

• Construction of new railway stations and facilities.
• Upgrading existing rail systems and services.
• Creating new logistical and commercial opportunities along the corridor.

Backed by Global Expertise

The Saudi government has commissioned highly reputable international organizations to conduct in-depth technical, financial, and legal studies to ensure the project's success. These evaluations have provided a solid foundation for the project's planning and execution, ensuring that all phases meet global standards.

Photo Credit: MEED

Tender for Lead Design Consultancy Services

As part of the next stage of development, the Lead Design Consultancy Services tender for the Saudi Landbridge Railway Network is now open. Details are as follows:

• Tender Name: Lead Design Consultancy Services – Saudi Landbridge Railway Network
• Tender Number: 708678
• Description: The consultancy firm will handle the Concept Design Stage and has the option to continue with the Preliminary and IFC (Issued for Construction) Design Stages.
• Deadline for Submitting Quotations: 15 May 2025

This tender represents a significant opportunity for global engineering and design firms to contribute to one of the most transformative infrastructure projects in the Middle East.

Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Saudi Arabia's Transport Sector

The Saudi Landbridge Railway Project is not just about building rail lines — it's about reshaping the Kingdom’s future. It offers a sustainable, high-speed, and efficient solution for passenger and cargo transport, bridging critical economic zones and enabling smoother trade routes between continents. As construction moves forward, the Landbridge is poised to become a flagship achievement in Saudi Arabia’s modern infrastructure landscape.