Riyadh: Saudi Arabia’s railway network is witnessing a surge in activity, with passenger and cargo figures reaching new highs in the first quarter of 2024.
Over eight million passengers traveled by train during this period, exceeding previous records. This growth was registered by both urban and intercity services.
Over two million passengers commuted by train within cities, representing a 1.7% increase compared to Q1 2023. Intercity travel saw even more significant growth, with over six million passengers opting for train travel – a remarkable 25.41% jump year-over-year.
The positive trend extends to the cargo sector as well. More than six million tons of goods and equipment were transported by rail in Q1 2024, representing a 10.7% increase over the same period in 2023.
These figures highlight the growing importance of railways in the Kingdom’s infrastructure. Efficient and reliable train services support various sectors, including industry and tourism. Train services also contribute to environmental
preservation by reducing carbon emissions. Furthermore, railways are a safer and more secure means of transportation, contributing to the overall improvement in the quality of life.
Source: Saudi Press Agency
