In a strategic move aimed at strengthening Saudi Arabia's position on the global trade map, Saudi Railways (SAR) has launched international logistics corridor based on freight trains. This ambitious project aims to connect King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, King Fahd Industrial Port in Jubail, and Jubail Commercial Port with the Al-Haditha border crossing. This initiative will enhance direct connectivity with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and countries to the north of the Kingdom, thus supporting regional trade through a highly efficient and reliable land route.
Strategic background: Launching an international logistics corridor enhances the Kingdom's position
This achievement did not come about by chance; rather, it is the culmination of historic and ongoing efforts within the framework of Saudi Vision 2030. Historically, trade in the region relied heavily on traditional overland transport via trucks, which faced challenges related to time, cost, and traffic safety. With the launch of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, the Kingdom began to reshape its infrastructure to become a global logistics hub connecting the three continents of Asia, Europe, and Africa. This historic transformation reflects the leadership's commitment to diversifying income sources and reducing dependence on oil by revitalizing vital sectors such as transport, export, and re-export.
Economic dimensions and regional and international impact
This project is of paramount importance and is expected to have a multifaceted impact. Locally, it will stimulate economic activity in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province ports, create new job opportunities, and support national industries by facilitating their access to international markets. Regionally, this route will enhance economic integration with Jordan and the Levant, facilitating the flow of goods and bolstering supply chains in the Middle East. Internationally, providing fast and reliable transport routes will increase the attractiveness of Saudi ports to investors and global shipping companies, thereby improving the Kingdom's global logistics performance index.
Flexibility of movement and reduction of commercial travel time
Saudi Railways (SAR) explained that this route allows customers to transport their goods with high flexibility from the ports of the Eastern Province to the Al-Haditha border crossing and onward to Jordan, as well as in the opposite direction. This integration directly contributes to reducing the journey time, which exceeds 1,700 kilometers, by half compared to traditional land freight methods. Furthermore, each train boasts a massive capacity exceeding 400 standard containers, significantly increasing the speed and efficiency of freight transport.
Environmental sustainability and an integrated railway network
In addition to its economic benefits, the project has a tangible positive impact on the environment and infrastructure. By removing thousands of trucks from highways, the quality of road infrastructure is preserved, traffic safety levels are improved, and carbon emissions are effectively reduced, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Green Initiative. It is worth noting that SAR operates an integrated railway network spanning over 5,500 kilometers. In 2025, the company successfully transported more than 14 million passengers and over 30 million tons of minerals and goods, underscoring its pivotal role in connecting ports, logistics centers, and production areas across the Kingdom.
