(الخطوط الحديدية السعودية في منتصف القرن العشرين: دراسة تحليلية لأبعادها الإدارية والاقتصادية و أثرها التنموي (1366هـ - 1375هـ / 1947م - 1955م

Abstract

This research presents an analytical study of the history and establishment of the Saudi Railways during the mid-20th century, investigating the administrative, operational, and economic dimensions associated with the construction of the railway line connecting Dammam and Riyadh. The study adopts the historical and institutional-analytical methodology to trace official documents, administrative decisions, and royal decrees issued during that era through primary sources and accredited archives, such as Umm Al-Qura newspaper and the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives, alongside specialized academic literature, concluding that the railway project was not merely an engineering achievement for transporting passengers and goods, but a strategic sovereign decision that contributed to administrative modernization, reduced transportation costs, and stimulated commercial and developmental activity between the eastern region and the capital, while supporting the economic and urban stability of areas along the route. In light of these findings, the research recommends the importance of documenting national historical archives for infrastructure projects and deepening comparative analytical studies on the evolution of the transport sector in modern Saudi history.