Riyadh Jeddah Land Bridge Project Scheduled for 2034 Completion

The Riyadh Jeddah Land Bridge project, a major rail line connecting Saudi Arabia’s capital to Jeddah on the Red Sea, is now planned for phased delivery, with full completion expected by 2034. Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) CEO Bashar bin Khalid Al-Malik confirmed that negotiations with a Chinese consortium failed because the group did not meet local content rules. The project will now move forward in stages under a new plan that aligns with Saudi regulations and long-term strategy.

Phased Delivery and Strategic Planning

Al-Malik said the Riyadh Jeddah Land Bridge will be built in phases. This approach ensures compliance with local laws and makes it easier to manage resources. SAR aims to complete the sections with higher passenger and freight demand first. Gradually, the full route between Riyadh and Jeddah will be operational.

The phased plan also allows SAR to integrate modern technology, improve safety standards, and minimize disruption to communities along the route. Local workforce participation will remain a priority throughout construction.

Upgrades Across Saudi Rail Network

The Land Bridge is part of a larger effort to modernize the Kingdom’s rail network. Freight operations were recently relocated from Hofuf to reduce congestion in urban areas and improve residents’ quality of life.

Al-Malik also explained that northern stations, like Al-Jouf, were originally designed for mining traffic, with passenger services added later. This demonstrates SAR’s focus on combining economic and passenger priorities in its rail network.

Seasonal and Religious Transport Services

SAR continues to operate the Mashaaer Train during Hajj. Each train can carry about 3,000 passengers per trip. During the last Hajj season, the service ran entirely with Saudi manpower. The train is one of the largest of its kind in the world, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s ability to manage high-capacity seasonal travel.

Regional Connectivity with High-Speed Rail

The Riyadh–Doha high-speed train, the first in the region to link two countries, is also part of SAR’s expansion. The 785-kilometer network connects Riyadh, Hofuf, Dammam, and Doha, reaching speeds up to 300 kilometers per hour. This line links King Salman International Airport in Riyadh with Hamad International Airport in Doha, improving both passenger travel and trade.

Women Driving Innovation in Rail

Saudi women are increasingly taking key roles in rail operations, especially on the Haramain High Speed Railway. SAR launched training programs to help women operate high-speed trains, and turnout exceeded expectations. This shows Saudi Arabia’s commitment to workforce inclusion and skill development.

Future Projects and Capacity Expansion

Work on the Eastern Railway Network is underway. New trains are set to double passenger capacity by 2027. These upgrades complement the Land Bridge and ensure the Kingdom’s rail system can meet future demand efficiently.

Economic and Strategic Benefits

The Riyadh Jeddah Land Bridge is more than a transport project. It connects major economic centers, reduces road congestion, and improves logistics across the Kingdom. By linking Riyadh and Jeddah, it also promotes trade, tourism, and passenger travel.

Local workforce participation ensures that the project benefits Saudi residents and strengthens the national economy. The Land Bridge is a key part of SAR’s long-term vision to modernize transportation in the Kingdom.

Conclusion: Transforming Saudi Rail Infrastructure

The Riyadh Jeddah Land Bridge will transform rail transport in Saudi Arabia. Phased delivery, regional connectivity, and inclusion of local workers and women make this a milestone project. By 2034, it will fully link Riyadh and Jeddah, modernizing transportation and boosting economic development across the Kingdom.

Source: Saudi Gazette