Saudi Arabia’s long-anticipated Riyadh–Jeddah Landbridge is officially back on track. But there’s a slight change in the original plan. The Kingdom’s flagship east–west rail link will now move forward in phases, with completion targeted before 2034.
Saudi Arabia Targets 2034 Completion For Riyadh–Jeddah Landbridge Rail Project
Saudi Arabia Railways confirmed the revised approach after talks with a Chinese consortium failed to meet the country’s local content rules. According to a report by Arabian Business, the decision reflects a clear message: mega projects must align with national priorities, not just timelines.
Speaking on the TV programme Fi Al Surah (“In the Picture”), SAR CEO Bashar bin Khalid Al-Malik explained that negotiations ended when the consortium could not comply with Saudi Arabia’s localisation requirements.
That was the deal breaker. Rather than stall the project, SAR opted for a new delivery model. The Landbridge will now be completed in stages.
What the Landbridge Will Actually Do
The project will link Riyadh to Jeddah, creating a direct east–west route for freight and passengers. Once operational, it will cut transit times, ease pressure on roads, and strengthen logistics between industrial zones, ports, and population centres.
For a country pushing hard on economic diversification, this connection is not optional. It is infrastructure with intent.
Balancing Growth With Community Needs
Al-Malik used the interview to highlight how SAR is adjusting operations to improve the quality of life. Last year, freight train operations were moved away from Hofuf, a decision aimed at reducing disruption for residents.
He also addressed questions about northern stations, noting that Al-Jouf station sits outside Sakaka because the line originally served mining operations. Passenger services came later, as the network expanded beyond its industrial roots.
Also Read: Saudi Arabia: Jeddah Metro Project Revived With Blue Line Tender, Expected To Span 35 Km!
Hajj Rail Operations And Saudi Workforce
Seasonal transport remains a priority. SAR operates the Mashaaer Train during Hajj under a Council of Ministers mandate. The service ran during the most recent Hajj with 100 per cent Saudi manpower.
Each train carries around 3,000 passengers per trip, making it one of the largest mass transport systems of its kind anywhere in the world.
High-Speed Links And What’s Next
Regional rail ambitions are already moving fast. Al-Malik described the Riyadh–Doha line as the region’s first high-speed rail service connecting two countries. The 785-kilometre route links Hofuf and Dammam, reaches speeds of 300 km/h, and connects King Salman International Airport with Hamad International Airport.
Meanwhile, work continues on the Eastern Railway Network. New trains are expected by the end of 2027, doubling passenger capacity. Women are also playing a growing role, with Saudi women now operating the Haramain High Speed Railway following dedicated training programmes.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/ Truecreatives from TrueCreatives
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