The transport network between the Dammam and Riyadh ports is poised for improvement as Saudi Railways Co. partners with shipping firm Maersk to increase container movement via trains.
SAR has signed a three-year contract with the Danish shipping firm to increase the number of containers transported via its trains between King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam and Riyadh Dry Port.
The deal, signed by SAR CEO Bashar bin Khalid Al-Malik and Maersk Saudi Arabia’s CEO Mohammad Shihab, aims to increase the movement of containers between the two points. It intends to provide innovative transport solutions that enhance the Kingdom’s competitiveness, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The agreement aligns with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, a key component of the country’s Vision 2030. It directly improves the country’s rankings on the Logistics Performance Index and enhances operational efficiency. The initiative also reduces truck traffic between Dammam and Riyadh, lowers carbon emissions, and maintains road infrastructure and safety, the SPA report added.
Al-Malik emphasized that partnering with one of the world’s largest shipping companies strengthens the nation’s logistics sector and its services.
“The agreement also highlights SAR’s commitment to delivering innovative, safe, and sustainable transport solutions aimed at enhancing operational efficiency at King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam and the Riyadh Dry Port. These efforts accelerate container movements for both exports and imports, thereby enhancing the Kingdom’s logistics performance,” Al-Malik- said.
Shihab also expressed confidence that the deal will effectively facilitate collaborative solutions between Maersk and SAR for digital transformation and sustainable logistics.
“This will raise the status of King Abdulaziz Port as a regional hub for global trade routes from the East to local markets, with potential expansion to other countries in the region in the near future,” he said.
Focusing on directly integrating with global shipping lines to boost efficiency in logistical operations, SAR has recently signed numerous agreements and memorandums of understanding with local and international entities.
According to SAR’s official website, the cargo route extends over 566 km, starting from King Abdul Aziz Port in Dammam and reaching its destination in Riyadh, making stops in Al-Ahsa, Abqaiq, Al-Kharj and Haradh, as well as Al-Tawdhihiyah.