home Turkish property & economy news Turkey and Saudi Arabia Sign Railway Transport Deals

Turkey and Saudi Arabia Sign Railway Transport Deals

Created 12 Jun 2026

Transportation in Turkey

Turkey and Saudi Arabia have signed new agreements covering railway cooperation and logistics services, marking a significant step in efforts to strengthen transport connectivity, trade links and infrastructure development across the region. The agreements were signed by Turkish Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloğlu and Saudi Transport Minister Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser.

 

New Agreements Target Logistics and Railway Development

The two memorandums of understanding establish a framework for greater cooperation in logistics services and railway development between Turkey and Saudi Arabia. According to the Turkish Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, the logistics agreement focuses on cooperation in the construction and operation of logistics centres, the sharing of expertise, and the development of joint projects.

The railway agreement aims to support collaboration across technology, infrastructure development, training, and workforce development. Announcing the agreements, Uraloğlu said the partnership would create a stronger and more sustainable framework for cooperation between the two countries.

He said: "In this context, we are launching a new phase that will strengthen the exchange of expertise and technical cooperation across a wide range of areas, from logistics centres to modern applications."

 

Trade Routes and Regional Connectivity in Focus

Transport links between Turkey and Saudi Arabia have become increasingly important as both countries look to improve regional trade corridors and diversify their transportation routes.

Uraloğlu noted that annual bilateral transport volumes had previously reached 20,000 movements before regional developments affected activity levels. He said that both countries are working to restore and exceed those figures through improved infrastructure and transport cooperation.

The minister added that Turkey and Saudi Arabia are closely monitoring developments on routes passing through Syria, Jordan, and Iraq. Recent test journeys travelling from Turkey through Iraq and onward to Saudi Arabia have demonstrated the viability of alternative regional transport corridors.

 

Railway Expansion Supports Long-Term Growth Plans

The agreements also support Turkey's broader ambitions to expand rail connectivity across the Middle East. Earlier this month, Uraloğlu discussed plans to modernise the historic Hejaz Railway and potentially extend connections towards Oman, creating an alternative trade route that could strengthen regional logistics networks and reduce dependence on traditional shipping corridors.

The minister said discussions are continuing with Saudi authorities as part of efforts to revive the historic route for both tourism and commercial transport purposes. He said: "May these steps, which will contribute to the connectivity, trade, and development of our region, bring lasting benefits to both our countries."

Industry observers believe stronger transport cooperation between Turkey and Saudi Arabia could help improve regional trade flows, support economic growth, and create new opportunities for logistics, infrastructure, and investment across the wider Middle East.

Cameron Deggin
Cameron Deggin Verified author Founder & CEO, Property Turkey

Cameron Deggin is Founder and CEO of Property Turkey. A former finance professional and FCCA-qualified accountant, he founded the company in 2001 after recognising Turkey’s investment potential. With more than two decades analysing Turkish real estate, Cameron regularly advises international investors and is quoted by media including the Financial Times and BBC.

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