RIYADH. Train Transport in Saudi Arabia is on a remarkable upward trajectory, with the Transport General Authority (TGA) reporting over 36.5 million passengers in the second quarter of 2025, a million more than the previous quarter. This surge highlights the Kingdom’s growing reliance on rail as a cornerstone of efficient, sustainable transportation, aligning with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and Saudi Vision 2030.
Intra-City and Inter-City Travel Sees Strong Demand
The intra-city rail network powered this growth, serving over 33.8 million passengers in Q2 2025. Leading the charge, the Riyadh Metro carried an impressive 23.6 million passengers, cementing its role as a vital urban mobility hub. The Automated People Mover (APM) at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah followed with 7.76 million passengers, while the Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University APM in Riyadh transported over 512,000 passengers. This robust demand underscores the increasing popularity of rail for seamless city travel.
Inter-city rail travel also saw significant growth, with 2.67 million passengers in Q2 2025, a 10% increase from the previous year. These figures reflect the expanding role of trains in connecting Saudi cities, offering travelers a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to road transport.
Freight Transport Strengthens Supply Chains
Rail freight transport played a pivotal role in supporting the Kingdom’s economy, moving 4.08 million tons of goods and over 232,000 containers in Q2 2025. This robust performance highlights the critical role of rail in bolstering supply chains, particularly in the industrial and mining sectors, driving economic growth and efficiency.
Saudi Arabia’s train services are more than just a mode of transport—they’re a catalyst for sustainability and improved quality of life. By facilitating the movement of passengers and goods, rail networks reduce carbon emissions, ease road congestion, and enhance connectivity across the Kingdom. As the sector continues to grow, it solidifies Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in innovative, eco-conscious transportation solutions.
Rail Travel Throughout Saudi
Saudi Arabia’s rail network, operated by the state-owned Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR), is transforming how people travel across the Kingdom, blending modern connectivity with the region’s rich landscapes and heritage. From bustling cities to desert dunes, SAR’s trains offer passengers a front-row seat to Saudi Arabia’s diverse beauty while paving the way for a more connected Gulf region. SAR currently runs three standout rail lines, each offering a unique journey through Saudi Arabia’s heartland:
- North Train: This line stretches from Riyadh to Qurayyat, near the Jordanian border, with stops in Al Majmaah, Hail, Qassim, and Jouf. Passengers glide through dramatic rocky mountains before entering the golden sands of the Al Nafud Desert, a breathtaking journey that showcases the Kingdom’s rugged natural splendor.
- East Train: Connecting Riyadh to the coastal city of Dammam, this route includes stops in Buqayq and Hofuf. The latter lies in the lush AlAhsa Oasis, a UNESCO-recognized gem home to over 2.5 million palm trees and renowned for producing some of the world’s finest dates. It’s a journey that blends urban energy with natural wonder.
- Haramain High-Speed Railway: Linking the holy cities of Al Madinah and Makkah, this high-speed line offers a swift, comfortable ride for pilgrims and travelers, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a global spiritual hub.
Saudi Arabia’s rail ambitions extend beyond its borders. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Railway, currently in planning, promises to revolutionize regional travel. Once completed, this coastal line will connect Kuwait City to Muscat, Oman, passing through key Saudi cities like Jubail and Dammam. This transformative project will unite the six GCC nations, fostering economic collaboration and seamless travel across the Gulf.
SAR’s rail network is more than a mode of transport—it’s a cornerstone of Saudi Vision 2030, promoting sustainable mobility and economic growth. By offering efficient, eco-friendly travel options, the railways reduce road congestion and carbon emissions while showcasing the Kingdom’s cultural and natural treasures. Whether you’re a traveler seeking adventure or a pilgrim on a sacred journey, Saudi Arabia’s trains are your gateway to an unforgettable experience.