Connecting Capitals: Saudi Arabia and Qatar Sign Deal for High-Speed Rail System
Saudi Arabia and Qatar have officially signed a deal to build a high-speed rail system that will connect the capitals of both countries. The project involves the construction of a high-speed electric passenger railway that will link Riyadh and Doha, with additional stops in the Saudi cities of Al-Hofuf and Dammam. The train is expected to operate at speeds exceeding 300 kilometers per hour (186 mph), reducing travel time between the two capitals to approximately two hours, compared to a 90-minute flight. The ambitious project aims to cater to 10 million passengers annually and is scheduled for completion within six years. The agreement was formalized during a visit by Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Riyadh, where it was signed by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.