The resurgence of large-scale rail projects in the Gulf states has sparked optimism among international contractors, who are eyeing a plethora of opportunities in the regional rail sector. The revival of project activity levels, particularly in the wake of the Al-Ula Agreement signed by Gulf states in January 2021, has set the stage for the ambitious Gulf states railway project, linking all six Gulf states with an extensive railway network.
Since the agreement, all six members of the bloc have either announced or indicated their plans for their segments of the rail network, signaling a significant shift in momentum for the region’s railway sector.
As these projects gain momentum, the Gulf countries present a promising landscape for contractors to capitalize on. With ambitious infrastructure initiatives underway and planned across the region, there is expected to be a substantial demand for skilled professionals and contractors, reports Al-Qabas daily.
By leveraging their expertise in the regional rail sector, contractors have the opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of transportation in the Gulf region while securing long-term contracts.
Saudi Arabia and the UAE emerge as major hubs for job opportunities in the railway sector, with significant projects underway or in the pipeline.
In Saudi Arabia, noteworthy projects such as the Saudi Land Bridge and the Riyadh Metro Extension are set to kick off. The Kingdom is on the verge of commencing work on the $7 billion Saudi Land Bridge project, with negotiations for financing nearing completion. Additionally, plans to double the second track on the north-south rail network and the expansion of the Riyadh Metro highlight the Kingdom’s commitment to advancing its railway infrastructure.
Meanwhile, in the UAE, the partial completion of the Etihad Rail Plan marks a significant milestone, with freight trains already operational. The country is now focusing on enhancing its railway infrastructure, including the procurement process for the UAE-Oman railway line and the high-speed railway project connecting Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
In Oman, the Etihad Rail Company is progressing with bids received for civil works packages for the UAE-Oman railway project, while preparations for the high-speed railway project in the Emirates are underway.
Similarly, in Dubai, tendering activities for the Dubai Metro Blue Line are gaining momentum, offering substantial opportunities for international contractors. Abu Dhabi’s light rail transit system is also underway, with construction work already initiated.
Looking ahead, upcoming railway projects in other Gulf countries, such as the Muscat Metro network in Oman and Bahrain’s metro plan, are poised to provide extensive job opportunities for railway contractors, further solidifying the region’s position as a lucrative market for infrastructure development.
