Saudi Arabia and Qatar: High-Speed ​​Rail Link Agreement and Summit Outcomes

A significant official visit by His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Emir of the State of Qatar, concluded in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, at the kind invitation of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. This visit culminated in a historic announcement that strengthens Gulf integration, represented by the signing of an agreement to link the two countries via a high-speed electric rail network.

Details of the high-speed electric train project

The new railway project represents a significant leap forward in the region's infrastructure, as the high-speed electric train will connect the Saudi capital, Riyadh, with the Qatari capital, Doha, passing through strategic stations in the cities of Dammam and Hofuf. This initiative is a major strategic step that aligns perfectly with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and Qatar National Vision 2030.

This project is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two countries, facilitating the movement of tourists and trade, and enhancing social interaction between the two brotherly peoples, as well as being an essential part of the ambitious GCC railway project.

Historical context and growing relations

This visit comes amidst the significant momentum in Saudi-Qatari relations since the Al-Ula Summit, which has witnessed rapid development across all sectors in recent years. The convening of the eighth meeting of the Saudi-Qatari Coordination Council during this visit, co-chaired by the leadership of both countries, reflects the depth of the fraternal ties and the sincere desire to propel bilateral cooperation to broader horizons.

Both sides praised the remarkable growth in trade exchange, which reached $930.3 million in 2024, achieving a jump of 634% compared to 2021, confirming the success of joint economic policies.

Strengthening cooperation in energy, security and defense

The discussions were not limited to the economic and transportation aspects, but also included other vital issues:

• Energy: Emphasizing the security of global energy supplies, cooperation in the fields of electricity and renewable energy, and the development of supply chains.
• Security and Defense: Agreement to strengthen the defense partnership to protect the region’s security, combat crime and smuggling, and enhance cybersecurity.
• International policy: Coordinating positions on regional and international issues to ensure international peace and security.

Future prospects and economic integration

This Saudi-Qatari rapprochement carries significant implications for the region's future, paving the way for a stronger economic bloc that serves the interests of both nations. The two sides agreed to enhance cooperation in the digital economy, innovation, industry, and mining sectors, in addition to signing memoranda of understanding in the areas of food security, media, and the non-profit sector.

At the conclusion of the visit, the leaders exchanged expressions of thanks and appreciation, emphasizing the continuation of joint coordination to achieve well-being and prosperity for the two brotherly countries and peoples.