Saudi Arabia Railways Signs Deal to Transport Thousands of Vehicles Annually by Trains

This agreement represents a turning point in the transportation and logistics services sector. (SPA)
This agreement represents a turning point in the transportation and logistics services sector. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia Railways Signs Deal to Transport Thousands of Vehicles Annually by Trains

This agreement represents a turning point in the transportation and logistics services sector. (SPA)
This agreement represents a turning point in the transportation and logistics services sector. (SPA)

Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and Al-Jabr Automotive have collaborated to transport thousands of vehicles annually by train from King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, aiming to boost operational efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize damage and carbon emissions.

The four-year contract plays a significant role in enhancing the efficiency of operational processes, cutting expenses, and minimizing the incidence of damage related to the transportation and handling of new cars.

Furthermore, it serves to alleviate pressure on the port.

CEO of SAR Dr. Bashar Al-Malik told Asharq Al-Awsat that Saudi Arabia Railways aims this year to finalize the removal of more than one million truck trips.

In 2022, trains contributed to keeping 1.8 million trucks off the Kingdom's roads.

Al-Malik noted that each truck that is kept off the roads has a positive impact on the environment by reducing carbon emissions, saying transporting goods through trains enhances the efficiency of operational processes and reduces traffic.

Looking forward to outreaching new customers to achieve a tangible impact on the environment and society, the CEO of SAR pointed out that the agreement represents a milestone towards achieving the strategic vision of a comprehensive transformation in the transport and logistics sector.

“We are taking a significant step through this agreement. Not only we are expanding and diversifying the services provided to our customers but also offering logistical transport solutions that contribute to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing traffic safety levels,” he said.

He further emphasized that the recent collaboration underscores full dedication to achieving sustainability goals and offering transportation solutions that prioritize the future of the nation and succeeding generations.

Bandar Al-Jabri, former president of the national committee of transport in the Council of Saudi Chambers, told Asharq Al-Awsat that this step backs economic, trade, and logistical movements among the cities of the Kingdom for the aim of achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

He noted that trains complement the maritime, land, and air sectors, expressing belief that the cost of transporting goods by trains and trucks is approximately the same.

The deal also underscores SAR’s steadfast commitment to providing sustainable solutions in the transport and logistics sector.

Aligned with the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics, SAR aims to reduce carbon emissions by 25 percent by 2030, in line with the Kingdom’s environmental initiatives.

Established in 2006, SAR is the owner and operator of the North Train Railway Network and carries on the vision to build sustainable passenger and cargo transport. SAR was assigned to take over the operations and management of the network from the Saudi Railway Organization in 2021.

Al-Jabr Automotive opened its first automotive showroom in 1959 in AlKhobar. The company occupies a leading position in the Saudi automobile market, having 28 showrooms and 38 fully-fledged service centers across the Kingdom.



Saudi's flynas Strikes Deal for Additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s

Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
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Saudi's flynas Strikes Deal for Additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s

Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)

flynas, Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost carrier, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 75 A320neo family aircraft and 15 A330-900. This strategic agreement will expand the airline's capacity, range and enhance its overall fleet capabilities.
Signed during Farnborough International Airshow in the presence of President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, Chairman of the Board of NAS Holding Ayed Al Jeaid, flynas Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director Bandar Almohanna, and Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer, Airbus said on its website.
The new aircraft will join the carrier’s all Airbus fleet serving international, domestic and regional routes. The new A330-900 aircraft will boast a two-class configuration, accommodating up to 400 passengers.
"We are excited to further strengthen our long-standing partnership with Airbus," said Bander Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas. "The A320neo Family provides exceptional operational performance and environmental benefits, allowing us to offer unique, low-cost travel experiences. Additionally, the A330neowill enhance our long-haul capabilities with its advanced technology and efficiency while supporting our growth plans and Saudi Arabia’s pilgrim program."
Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer said, "We are delighted to expand our partnership with flynas through this significant milestone for both A320neo and A330-900 aircraft. The A330neo will allow flynas to further grow into widebody markets by building on the A320, benefiting from Airbus’ unique commonality. Both aircraft types offer flynas the perfect versatility and economics to expand into new markets while offering their passengers the latest cabin experience and comfort. We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration with flynas as they embark on this exciting new chapter."
The addition of the A330-900 aircraft will support flynas' ambitious growth plans. The airline anticipates significant operational efficiency gains by combining the new widebody aircraft with its existing A320neo fleet. The A330-900 offers increased capacity and range at unrivaled seat costs, ensuring flynas can compete effectively in the growing regional market, a key focus area for the airline.
The A330neo delivers unbeatable operating economics, powered by the latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, featuring new wings and a range of aerodynamic innovations resulting in a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. The A330neo is capable of flying 8,150 nm / 15,094 km non-stop, providing ultimate comfort with more passenger space, a new lighting system, latest in-flight entertainment systems and full connectivity throughout the cabin.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A330 family is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The manufacturer is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.