Saudi launches rail freight corridor linking Jordan

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (MNTV) — Saudi Arabia Railways has launched a new international rail freight corridor connecting major Gulf ports in Saudi Arabia to its northern border, establishing a direct overland route to Jordan and neighboring markets.

The corridor links key ports in the Kingdom’s Eastern Region — including King Abdulaziz Port, King Fahd Industrial Port and Jubail Commercial Port — with Al-Haditha Port through the national railway network, as reported by Arab News.

The new service enables containerized cargo to be transported by rail between Gulf ports and the northern border, where shipments can continue onward into Jordan and other countries in the region. 

The route is also designed for two-way operations, allowing goods to move back toward ports using the same rail infrastructure.

Stretching more than 1,700 kilometers, the corridor is expected to significantly reduce transit times compared to traditional land freight routes. 

Each train operating on the line can carry over 400 standard containers, enhancing overall cargo capacity and throughput.

Officials say the project is aimed at improving efficiency and reliability in freight transportation while supporting export and re-export activity across the region. 

By shifting cargo movement from road to rail, the corridor could also reduce the number of heavy trucks on highways, potentially improving road safety, lowering maintenance costs and cutting emissions.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts to strengthen logistics infrastructure and integrate regional supply chains through expanded rail connectivity, positioning Saudi Arabia as a key transit hub for trade flows between Gulf ports and neighboring countries.