Saudi-Emirati cooperation on power and rail linking and energy exchange

SPA - Saudi Minister of Energy and Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, and UAE Minister of Investment, Mohamed Al Suwaidi, signed a memorandum of understanding in Riyadh on Thursday to enhance strategic cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the UAE in the fields of power and rail interconnection and energy exchange, with the aim of maximizing shared economic benefits between the two countries in these areas.

The memorandum includes agreement on the general principles of power interconnection and the exchange and sale of electricity between the two countries, as well as conducting relevant technical, economic, and environmental studies. It also calls for coordination with member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) on expanding the GCC power interconnection system, in accordance with the provisions of the General Agreement for Power Interconnection among GCC countries, thereby supporting the efficiency of energy systems and enhancing regional integration.

Furthermore, the memorandum covers agreement on the general principles of rail interconnection between the two countries for bidirectional transit transport of goods and cargo, contributing to strengthened logistical integration, improved supply chain efficiency, and support for economic development opportunities and regional integration.