SAR Reports 17% Passenger Growth and 13M Tons of Goods in H1 2024

Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) reported that over 5.1 million passengers used its network during the first half of 2024, marking a 17% increase compared to the same period in 2023, according to official figures released by the Saudi Press Agency. The data also shows a 5% rise in total trips, with 17,200 journeys operated across the Eastern Train, Northern Train, and Haramain High-Speed Train networks.

Context and Background

The release of these operational figures underscores the growing reliance on rail transport in the Kingdom, a key component of the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services. The strategy aims to position Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub by 2030, enhancing connectivity and reducing road congestion.

Key Details

The volume of minerals and goods transported exceeded 13.26 million tons, a 9% increase over the first half of 2023. This shift to rail has eliminated over one million truck trips on highways, contributing to improved traffic safety, reduced road wear, and lower carbon emissions, aligning with national sustainability goals. SAR CEO Dr. Bashar bin Khalid Al-Malik highlighted achievements during the Hajj season 1445 AH, attributing them to leadership support and continuous service improvements. He also noted strategic agreements signed in early 2024, including a contract for 10 modern trains for the Eastern Railway Network and two memoranda of understanding with the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON) to link Dammam’s logistics zone to ports and global markets. Additionally, the first luxury train service in the Middle East and North Africa is scheduled to launch in the last quarter of 2025.

Implications and Impact

These developments enhance Saudi Arabia’s regional connectivity and trade efficiency, supporting economic diversification away from oil. By reducing highway congestion and emissions, SAR’s expansion also contributes to environmental sustainability, a growing priority for international partners and investors.

Vision 2030 Alignment

SAR’s performance directly supports Vision 2030 goals by modernizing infrastructure, boosting tourism and logistics sectors, and improving quality of life. As the Kingdom continues to invest in rail, it strengthens its position as a leading transportation hub, driving long-term economic growth and global integration.

20 Questions

Q1. How many passengers used SAR trains in the first half of 2024?

A1. Over 5.1 million passengers used SAR trains in the first half of 2024, reflecting a 17% increase compared to the same period in 2023.

Q2. What was the total number of trips on SAR networks during this period?

A2. SAR operated 17,200 trips across its Eastern, Northern, and Haramain High-Speed Train networks in the first half of 2024, a 5% increase.

Q3. How much minerals and goods were transported by SAR in the first half of 2024?

A3. The volume exceeded 13.26 million tons, marking a 9% increase over the first half of 2023.

Q4. What environmental benefit resulted from increased rail transport?

A4. The shift eliminated over one million truck trips on highways, reducing carbon emissions and preserving road infrastructure.

Q5. How does SAR’s performance benefit traffic safety?

A5. By replacing millions of truck trips with rail, SAR reduces highway congestion and accident risks, improving overall traffic safety.

Q6. Who is the CEO of SAR?

A6. Dr. Bashar bin Khalid Al-Malik serves as the CEO of Saudi Arabia Railways.

Q7. What milestones did SAR achieve during the Hajj season 1445 AH?

A7. SAR successfully managed increased passenger demand during Hajj, with enhanced services supported by Saudi leadership, ensuring smooth pilgrim travel.

Q8. Does SAR’s growth align with Vision 2030?

A8. Yes, SAR’s expansion directly supports Vision 2030 by boosting transportation infrastructure, economic diversification, and sustainability.

Q9. What new trains did SAR order for the Eastern Railway Network?

A9. SAR signed a contract to purchase 10 modern trains to enhance passenger experience and meet national targets.

Q10. What agreements were signed with MODON?

A10. SAR signed two memoranda of understanding with MODON to link Dammam’s logistics zone to the railway network, improving industrial connectivity.

Q11. What is the first luxury train service in the Middle East and North Africa?

A11. SAR is launching a luxury train service, scheduled to begin in the last quarter of 2025, to boost tourism and premium travel.

Q12. How does SAR support the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services?

A12. SAR’s increased capacity and efficiency help meet national targets for integrated, sustainable transport systems.

Q13. What networks does SAR operate?

A13. SAR operates the Eastern Train, Northern Train, and Haramain High-Speed Train networks across Saudi Arabia.

Q14. How does rail transport reduce highway wear?

A14. By moving goods via rail instead of trucks, SAR reduces heavy vehicle traffic, extending highway lifespan and cutting maintenance costs.

Q15. What is the timeline for the luxury train service launch?

A15. The luxury train service is scheduled to commence in the last quarter of 2025, as confirmed by SAR.

Q16. How did SAR’s figures compare to the first half of 2023?

A16. Passenger numbers rose 17%, trips increased 5%, and freight volume grew 9% compared to the same period in 2023.

Q17. What role does SAR play in Saudi industrialization?

A17. SAR connects industrial zones, like Dammam’s second industrial city, to ports and markets, enabling efficient supply chains for manufacturers.

Q18. Is SAR expanding its network?

A18. Yes, through new train purchases and agreements with MODON, SAR is expanding capacity and connectivity.

Q19. How does SAR contribute to lowering emissions?

A19. By replacing truck trips with rail, SAR reduces fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, supporting climate goals.

Q20. Where was the operational data officially released?

A20. The data was released by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) on August 6, 2024, based on official SAR reports.

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