The National Transport and Logistics Strategy, introduced by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, intends to strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a worldwide logistics hub connecting the three continents and improve services and all modes of transportation.
It also aims at enhancing integration in the logistics system and modern modes of transportation to support the Kingdom’s comprehensive development process.
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the strategy includes a package of significant projects aimed at achieving economic and social goals and adopting effective governance models to improve institutional work in the transportation system.
For the Saudi Crown Prince, this strategy will help to strengthen human and technical capabilities in the transportation and logistics sectors in the Kingdom. It will enhance the connection with the global economy and enable Saudi Arabia to invest its geographical position in the middle of the three continents in diversifying its economy.
He explained that the strategy focuses on developing infrastructure, launching several logistical platforms and areas in the Kingdom and implementing advanced operating systems.
It will also focus on effective partnerships between the government system and the private sector to achieve four main goals:
- Strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a global logistics centre
- Improving the quality of life in Saudi cities
- Balancing the public budget
- Improving the performance of the government apparatus
In maritime transport, Prince Mohammed bin Salman explained that the strategy aims to reach a capacity of more than 40 million containers annually.
That needs extensive investments in developing port infrastructure and enhancing its integration with the logistical areas in the Kingdom, and expanding its connection with shipping lines.
He also explained that the railways provide their services in the passenger and goods transport sector through a network of 5,330km in length, 450km of which are in the Haramain Express Railway route between Makkah and Makkah Madinah, the most extensive high-speed transportation project in the region.
The strategy includes many initiatives to reduce the number of accident victims to a minimum, achieve efficient connectivity, and develop public transport services in Saudi cities.
He stated that one of the strategy’s primary goals is to boost the transportation and logistics sector’s contribution to national GDP.
In conclusion, he said: “We are proud of the achievements made under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
