Saudi Arabia has approved a landmark agreement to develop Saudi Qatar Rail between Riyadh and Doha. As a result, the decision highlights expanding regional cooperation and long-term infrastructure planning. Moreover, officials described the project as transformative for Gulf transportation.
During the meeting, King Salman chaired the Cabinet session in Riyadh where ministers endorsed the agreement. At the same time, the Council emphasized close coordination between Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Overall, leaders framed the decision as part of broader economic integration.
According to officials, the planned railway will extend roughly 785 kilometers across eastern Saudi Arabia. In addition, the route will directly link Riyadh with Doha. To achieve this, engineers will rely on advanced electric rail systems.
Once completed, trains will operate at speeds exceeding 300 kilometers per hour. Consequently, the journey between the two capitals will take about two hours. Therefore, officials expect a major shift in regional travel patterns.
Furthermore, the line will include key stations in Dammam and Al-Ahsa. Together, these locations will serve industrial, commercial, and residential areas. As a result, authorities anticipate increased trade and tourism along the corridor.
Meanwhile, during the same session, the Cabinet reviewed recent diplomatic engagements. In particular, ministers discussed a phone call between Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Additionally, the Council examined talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip ErdoÄŸan.
Likewise, officials reviewed discussions with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during his visit. Subsequently, the Cabinet praised the outcomes of these meetings. In turn, leaders reaffirmed commitments to expand bilateral cooperation.
At the same time, the Council welcomed agreements signed with Türkiye across multiple sectors. Similarly, ministers praised partnerships involving Saudi and German private sectors. Together, these initiatives aim to support development goals and shared interests.
Beyond bilateral ties, the Cabinet reviewed Saudi Arabia’s efforts to promote regional stability. Accordingly, ministers called for full implementation of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. Moreover, officials urged progress toward a political solution for Palestine.
In addition, the Council reaffirmed support for international counterterrorism efforts. Notably, members praised outcomes from the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS meeting hosted by the Kingdom. Therefore, officials stressed the need for continued global cooperation.
Meanwhile, ministers highlighted efforts to strengthen ties with Syria. Specifically, Saudi delegations launched projects in aviation and communications. Furthermore, additional initiatives will support water, industry, and education.
Separately, the Cabinet praised the AlUla Conference on Emerging Market Economies 2026. During the event, participants focused on reform, resilience, and sustainable growth. Notably, Saudi Arabia organized the conference with international partners.
In another development, the Council welcomed the Kingdom’s election to lead the Institute of Internal Auditors board. According to officials, the role reflects recognition of professional leadership. The term will run from 2027 to 2028.
Additionally, the Cabinet approved procedures for the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Global Center for Arabic Calligraphy. At the same time, ministers formed a permanent committee to oversee asbestos prohibition nationwide.
Finally, the Cabinet authorized discussions on nuclear cooperation with Jordan and Türkiye. Importantly, officials emphasized peaceful and civilian energy applications. Overall, the railway project remains central to Saudi Arabia’s regional connectivity strategy.
