Qiddiya High-Speed Rail will connect Riyadh's key hubs in just 30 minutes
Bringing Riyadh airport, KAFD and Qiddiya City closer than ever
Imagine stepping onto a sleek high-speed train in Riyadh and arriving in Qiddiya City – the world’s first city built entirely for play, where entertainment, sport, and culture converge – in just 30 minutes. That’s faster than most commutes within Riyadh itself.
Thanks to the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC), in collaboration with the National Centre for Privatisation & PPP, and Qiddiya Investment Company, plans have been announced to build the Qiddiya High-Speed Rail Project.
Here’s what we know so far about the new high-speed rail.
The Qiddiya High-Speed Rail project aims to link key destinations, such as King Salman International Airport (KSIA), the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), and Qiddiya City. It will significantly reduce travel time between these major landmarks, offering a swift, comfortable, and efficient journey.
The #QiddiyaHighSpeedRail aims to strengthen vital transport links across Riyadh, by providing a high-speed rail connection between King Salman International Airport (KSIA), King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), and Qiddiya City in less than 30 minutes. With speeds of up to… pic.twitter.com/lNlRXLBgjh
— الهيئة الملكية لمدينة الرياض (@RCRCSA) September 22, 2025
This will be achieved through a high-speed rail line capable of reaching speeds of up to 250 kilometres per hour, therefore, shortening travel times between these destinations to just 30 minutes.
This new system will integrate seamlessly with the newly launched Riyadh Public Transport (RPT) network, making it even easier for residents and visitors to move around Riyadh.
According to RCRC, the project will form part of the city’s broader mobility framework, aimed at improving accessibility and supporting sustainable urban development.
A gateway to Qiddiya
Qiddiya City is a key element of Saudi Vision 2030, envisioned as a world-class destination for entertainment, sports and culture.
It will serve as the Qiddiya giga-project’s entertainment hub, offering attractions like Six Flags Qiddiya City – the largest Six Flags to date and home to the world’s tallest, longest and fastest roller coaster.
Highlights in Qiddiya City also include the Aquarabia water park, the world’s first Dragon Ball theme park, a gaming and esports district, and an immersive motorsport circuit.
But accessibility has always been key, and that’s where the Qiddiya High-Speed Rail comes in.
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip with the family or a spontaneous night out with friends, Qiddiya City will soon be as easy to reach as your neighbourhood shopping centre.
A new era of smart mobility
With the introduction of the Qiddiya High-Speed Rail, Riyadh is offering not only modern and faster transport but also an enhanced visitor experience. As tourists continue to flock to Saudi Arabia, this development provides the connectivity and convenience that will elevate its tourism offerings.
Moreover, by connecting these key locations, the high-speed rail will make it easier for residents and visitors to explore and experience the best that Riyadh has to offer.
The construction date for the Qiddiya High-Speed Rail project has not yet been announced, as it is currently the beginning of the Expression of Interest (EOI) phase for the construction, during which companies and entities are required to register to bid for the project.
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