Qatar and its Gulf neighbours have taken a major step towards turning the long-envisioned GCC railway network into reality, signing a landmark agreement in Manama Sunday to establish a unified rail corridor linking all six member states and opening new avenues for trade, tourism and economic integration.
The agreement, signed on the sidelines of the 30th meeting of GCC transport ministers in the Bahraini capital, lays the groundwork for a seamless regional railway system designed to transform the movement of passengers and goods across the Gulf.
The signing ceremony was attended by GCC transport ministers and GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed al-Budaiwi.
The General Agreement to Connect GCC Countries through the Railway Project establishes a comprehensive framework for co-ordination between member states and the GCC Railways Authority, aimed at overcoming implementation challenges and ensuring the technical and operational integration of the regional network.
It also sets out the responsibilities of individual countries, establishes timelines for construction and operation, and harmonises technical standards, safety requirements and operational procedures to ensure seamless connectivity between national railway systems.
His Excellency Minister of Transport Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulla bin Mohammed al-Thani described the agreement as a strategic milestone in advancing Gulf integration and building a modern, interconnected regional transport ecosystem.
He said the initiative reflected the shared commitment of GCC countries to strengthening their historic and fraternal ties while deepening co-operation in vital sectors to fulfil the aspirations of their peoples and advance sustainable development.
The minister stressed that the agreement would provide a crucial framework for co-ordinating efforts to deliver the ambitious railway project and integrate national transport networks into a cohesive regional system.
By facilitating the movement of people and goods, the railway network would improve logistics efficiency, unlock new opportunities for trade and tourism, and strengthen economic ties among member states, he said.
The project would also enhance the Gulf's global competitiveness and reinforce its emergence as a major regional hub for transport and logistics.
HE Sheikh Mohammed reaffirmed Qatar's commitment to supporting joint GCC initiatives that promote regional integration, accelerate economic and social development, and deliver advanced infrastructure capable of meeting future needs and ambitions.
The GCC railway project has been a longstanding pillar of the bloc's vision for greater economic connectivity. The GCC Supreme Council approved the establishment of a railway network linking the six member states in 2009.
In December 2021, the council took another significant step by establishing the GCC Railways Authority to oversee co-ordination of the project's implementation and ensure compatibility with the national railway networks of member states.
Sunday's agreement marks another important advance towards translating that vision into an integrated transport network spanning the Gulf.