Kuwait-Saudi rail link set for completion in 2028

Getty Images/ For illustrative purposes

Kuwait and Saudi Arabia are moving forward with a strategic railway network project that would significantly reduce travel times between the two countries.

According to Kuwait’s Ministry of Public Works and a report published by Arab News, the project is expected to be completed by 2028.

In September 2023, Saudi Arabia’s cabinet approved an agreement with Kuwait on a railroad project to link the two countries.

According to reports, in 2023, Saudi Arabia Railways and the Saudi Public Transport Authority appointed France’s Systra to complete the feasibility study for a high-speed rail link connecting Saudi Arabia (Riyadh) and Kuwait (Kuwait City).

The Saudi-Kuwait rail project: What to expect

The project will consist of three phases.

Phase 1 (Three months): This initial phase will involve studying the project and finalising the route. The route will start from Al Shaddadiya in Kuwait and pass through Riyadh, Saudi Arabia’s capital city.
Phase 2 (One year): The second phase will focus on designing the railway network.
Phase 3 (three years): The final phase will involve the construction of the rail network.

Once completed, the 650-kilometre railway is expected to cut travel time between the two Gulf states to just two hours.

The project is seen as a major step in strengthening ties between the countries. It is also expected to boost bilateral trade and economic activity.