Rail projects account for 32 per cent of the total GCC transportation developments valued at $298 billion, according to recent reports.

Transportation makes up to 20 per cent of the total construction spend in Saudi Arabia where nearly $25 billion is at the bidding stage or under development in the railway sector. The Saudi network will be further improved by adding 3,900 km of track through three major railway projects.

An estimated $45 billion, a full third of planned GCC rail spending before 2030, is currently committed to upgrading existing lines and building new rail networks across Saudi Arabia.

However, the country’s vast area and varied geographical features along with its ambitious deadlines and objectives have given rise to a unique set of financing, logistical and engineering challenges that require innovative and resourceful solutions, said the organisers of the upcoming Saudi Rail 2015, the international exhibition for rail, metro lines, and urban transportation, to be held in the Saudi capital Riyadh.

Organised by Riyadh Exhibitions Company (REC) in cooperation with Ramatan Exposition and Conference, the show will take place from January 25 to 28, 2015 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre (RICEC).

Held under the patronage of Prince Turki bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Riyadh, it will provide a platform for international exhibitors to display the latest developments in the railway industry as well as highlight the lucrative opportunities in the region.

Saudi Rail 2015 will showcase the latest products, equipment, technologies, and services from renowned international brands as well as enable unique and highly effective networking opportunities.

A wide array of products and services at the exhibition will include passenger and cargo transportation wagons, maintenance services, train line systems, train network and communication systems, train station equipment, facilities and services, consultancy, broadcasting, and customer clearance services.

Saudi Rail 2015 will be held concurrently with Saudi Logitrans 2015 – the international exhibition for transport, logistics and freight - the ‘Saudi Rail and Logitrans Conference’ and ‘Trans 4 Saudi Arabia’.

Seminar sessions will provide a podium for key government decision makers, transportation organisations, port authorities, and industry professionals to announce new initiatives, formulate strategic policies and regulations, discuss up-to-the-minute case studies, and exchange information on global best practices. – TradeArabia News Service