A monumental new railway project, dubbed The Gulf Railway, is underway, set to reshape transportation across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.
The ambitious rail network will span six desert countries—Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates – at a staggering total cost of US$250 billion (£188 billion).
The Gulf Railway, once completed, will cover more than 1,200 miles and provide seamless connectivity between these Gulf nations, supporting both economic growth and urban development in the region.
This vast infrastructure project marks a significant advancement in regional cooperation and signals a new era of transportation for the GCC.
The renewed interest in large-scale rail projects in the region is driven by both economic and environmental factors.
As GCC economies diversify and focus on urban expansion, modern rail networks like the Gulf Railway are viewed as critical investments.
Improved oil revenues and strong market fundamentals over the past year have also provided the financial backing needed to accelerate such massive infrastructure projects.
The Gulf Railway aims to not only facilitate smoother trade and transport across borders but also catalyse economic integration and regional growth.
This rail network promises to be a vital link between key cities, ports, and economic hubs, reducing reliance on road travel and offering a more sustainable, efficient means of transportation.
Progress is already being seen in several member nations.
Saudi Arabia unveiled the first segment of the Riyadh Metro in March 2024, with full operations expected to be completed by the end of the year.
This marks a significant step forward in the nation’s larger transport modernisation efforts.
In the UAE, rail development has also gained momentum.
In February, the UAE National Railway Network was launched, showcasing the country’s commitment to creating state-of-the-art rail infrastructure.
The UAE’s advancements are expected to play a key role in linking the Gulf Railway network with its domestic systems, enhancing both regional and international trade routes.
As the Gulf Railway takes shape, it is expected to transform the way goods and people move across the region.