KSA launches rail-sea corridor for minerals

Saudi Arabia has launched a new integrated logistics service to move diammonium phosphate (DAP) from Ras Al-Khair to Yanbu Port using rail, road and sea networks. The system connects Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR), the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) and shipping company Bahri. In the first phase, more than 45,000 tons of DAP will be transported.

The move strengthens global food supply chains and improves the Kingdom’s role as a reliable exporter of key agricultural inputs. It also reduces road pressure by shifting cargo to rail-linked transport.

The shipment starts at Ras Al-Khair, where containers are loaded onto trains and moved to Hail cargo yard. From there, trucks carry the goods to Yanbu Commercial Port for global export. The model shows tighter coordination between mining, rail and port systems. It improves speed and efficiency in moving industrial goods across regions.

Officials say the system will displace about 4,800 truck trips in three months. This reduces congestion, improves road safety and lowers carbon emissions. It will also support Saudi Arabia’s goal of building a sustainable logistics network and becoming a global hub connecting Asia, Africa and Europe. Officials say more phases may expand capacity across key transport routes in coming months further planned.