Qatar Cabinet approves draft agreement for CCC connectivity via railway

Doha, Qatar – July 2, 2025: Under the chairmanship of H.E. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs Sheikh Saoud bin Abdulrahman bin Hassan Al-Thani, the Cabinet held its regular weekly meeting at the Amiri Diwan and approved the draft general agreement for the highly anticipated Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) railway project.

This strategic approval paves the way for Qatar’s active participation in an ambitious regional infrastructure project aimed at connecting all six GCC states through an integrated railway network. The railway, estimated to span approximately 2,117 kilometers, will originate in Kuwait City and run through Saudi Arabia’s Dammam, branching toward Bahrain and Qatar via two dedicated maritime bridges. From Qatar, it will extend to the United Arab Emirates via Abu Dhabi, ultimately reaching Muscat, Oman.

The GCC railway network is envisioned as a transformative project that will significantly enhance regional trade, economic integration, and social connectivity among the Gulf states. Once completed, it will provide a modern, sustainable, and efficient mode of transportation for passengers and freight, reducing reliance on road transport and supporting the region’s shared vision for diversified, resilient economies.

The project aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, which emphasizes developing advanced infrastructure and strengthening regional ties as part of its broader economic diversification goals. By participating in this landmark initiative, Qatar underscores its commitment to fostering closer cooperation with neighboring countries and reinforcing its position as a regional logistics and transport hub.

Key anticipated benefits of the GCC railway project include:

• Boosting cross-border trade and supply chain efficiency, facilitating smoother movement of goods and services.

• Promoting tourism and cultural exchange by enabling easier, faster travel across Gulf countries.

• Creating job opportunities and stimulating local economies through large-scale construction, operations, and related industries.

• Reducing environmental impact by shifting freight and passenger transport from roads to rail, supporting sustainability efforts.

Qatar’s approval of the draft agreement reflects its proactive approach to regional development and cooperation, demonstrating a shared commitment to building a more interconnected and prosperous Gulf region.

The next stages of the project will involve detailed engineering studies, financing arrangements, and coordinated implementation plans across member states to ensure timely and efficient delivery.