Domestic tourism to gain from Saudi rail expansion

19/12/2014 07:17 AST

Saudi Railways Organization (SRO) President Mohammed Al-Suwaiket has lauded the efforts of Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) in developing the tourism sector and preserving national heritage.

Al-Suwaiket made these remarks as Prince Sultan bin Salman, president of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA), received him at the SCTA headquarters in Riyadh to boost mutual cooperation.

They discussed a strategic railway plan under execution and SRO's initiatives to support tourism development.

"During their meeting, the SRO president briefed Prince Sultan on the update of the strategic plan adopted for the development of railways sector in the Kingdom," said spokesperson for SCTA.

The strategic scheme aims to develop a clear and integrated vision of the network of rail lines over the next 30 years.

SRO's keenness to serve the tourism sector within the updated plan was also discussed. The SRO chief said that his meeting with Prince Sultan has opened several areas of cooperation between the two organizations for the support and interest of tourism activities. Al-Suwaiket indicated that the strategic plan for the development of railways sector in the Kingdom includes existing projects and schemes that aim in future to connect the GCC region, in addition to future projects linking the western part of the Kingdom with eastern and central regions.

"The length of the railways network, after execution, is expected to reach about 10,000 km. which is projected to play a key role in the promotion of domestic tourism," the SRO president said.

Responding to the call, the SCTA president expressed his appreciation to SRO president's visit to the headquarters, praising his efforts in the development of the railways in the Kingdom and stressed the importance of strategic plan of the railways and its future mega projects. Prince Sultan also referred to great investments that are being made in these projects. He also highlighted to their economic and social benefits. A large number of jobs are also expected to create in the future for Saudi citizens.

He also referred to the prospective and important role of railways projects in the Kingdom for serving the domestic tourism.

Rail tours that cover domestic tourism destinations are likely to see considerable demand from citizens and residents, said the SCTA official.

Arab News