Saudi Railways Company (SAR) revealed its key operational figures for the first half of the current year, 2024. The number of passengers exceeded 5.1 million through SAR trains, representing a 17% increase compared to the same period last year.
“SAR” indicated that the increase in the number of passengers was accompanied by a rise in the number of trips during the first half of 2024 across its various networks by 5% compared to the same period last year, bringing the total number of trips to 17,200 across the East Train, North Train, and High-Speed Haramain Train networks.
Saudi Railways Company
“SAR” explained that the volume of minerals and goods transported through its networks during the first half of this year exceeded 13.26 million tons, representing a 9% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This has helped remove more than one million truck trips from the country’s highways, contributing to improved traffic safety, preservation of road infrastructure, and reduction of carbon emissions.
Dr. Bashar bin Khalid Al-Malik, CEO of Saudi Railways, stated that the company’s positive results in the first half of 2024 align with the exceptional success of services provided during the 1445 AH Hajj season. He credited these achievements to the unwavering support from the wise leadership and ongoing efforts to maintain these positive outcomes.
Dr. Al-Malik added that “SAR” signed numerous strategic agreements and memorandums of understanding in the first half of this year to enhance rail transport services. Highlights include the announcement of the first luxury train service in the Middle East and North Africa, starting in late 2025. It also will include a contract to purchase 10 modern trains for the Eastern Railway Network to improve quality of life.
MODON
Two memoranda of understanding were signed with the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON) and supported by the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program (NIDLP). The goal is to connect the logistics area in the second industrial city in Dammam to the railway network. This will allow establishments in the industrial city to access King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, Riyadh Dry Port, and the ports of Jubail and Ras Al-Khair. As a result, it will enhance supply chains for the industrial sector in the central and eastern regions.
The Saudi Railways significantly boost the Kingdom’s economy by providing passenger and freight transport across four railway networks. Their logistical support aids various sectors, aligning with the national strategy for transportation and logistics services.
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