Qatar signs landmark GCC railway agreement to strengthen regional connectivity

Manama, November 8, 2026 - The Kingdom of Bahrain witnessed the signing of a general agreement for the GCC Railway Project on Sunday, marking a significant milestone in the region's transport integration. The ceremony was graced by the presence of the Minister of Transport, HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Thani, alongside the Ministers of Transport and Communications from the other GCC nations who gathered in Bahrain.

According to Jasem Albudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), this agreement signifies a pivotal step towards bolstering Gulf unity within the transport sector. It lays the groundwork for a unified railway network that spans all GCC countries, creating a cohesive and interoperable regional system. This initiative not only facilitates seamless connectivity and transportation across the Gulf but also serves as a cornerstone for the broader goal of joint Gulf integration, propelling economic development and fostering common prosperity among the peoples of the GCC.

Albudaiwi commended the relentless efforts of the teams involved across the GCC countries and the Gulf Railway Authority. He emphasized the critical role this project plays in advancing the collective integration process, aligning with the aspirations of the GCC nations for an interconnected transport network that drives economic growth and shared prosperity.

The GCC Railway Project spans an impressive 2,100 kilometers, stretching across six Gulf states - Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman. With its full operational readiness expected by December 2030, this ambitious endeavor promises to transform the region's transportation landscape, heralding a new era of integrated and efficient rail travel across the GCC.