Bahrain's metro project is gathering steam as experts later this year will look at ways to build a well-connected, world-class national rail network in the kingdom.

Around 250 professionals from all over the world are expected to attend the Bahrain Rail Congress 2019 that will be held on August 7 and 8 at the Hotel Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa.

Government representatives, ministries, industry experts, technology leaders and global rail innovators will take part in the event, being held under the theme ‘Designing and Developing a Well Connected World Class National Rail Network in Bahrain’.

The Bahrain Metro Network, costing between $1 billion and $2 billion, will cover a total distance of 109 km, with electric driverless trains capable of carrying 43,000 passengers per hour from more than 20 stations spread across the country. Expected to be operational by 2023, the project is expected to boost infrastructure, develop smart transport and increase investment opportunities.

Global experts invited for the event include Metro Istanbul project director Mehmet Ali Dagli, Control System Cyber Security Association International president Mohamed Yousef and Alliance of Passenger Rail secretary-general Nick Brooks.

Other speakers include Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Ministry infrastructure advisor Loay Ghazaleh, Kolkata Rail Corporation signalling chief engineer Sanjay Kumar and Terna overseas business executive director Stathis Natsis.