Saudi Arabia plans major rail development, new train network planned
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Transport undertaking study to connect two major rail networks
Saudi Arabia is undertaking a major rail study to connect train networks in the Kingdom.
The Ministry of Transport is investigating a development to connect the Haramain High-Speed Train with the Mashair Train.
Connecting the existing rail networks would provide improved transport services for Hajj pilgrims going forward.
The Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics, Saleh Al Jasser told local media that a future rail network could link the two sites directly.
The Ministry and the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites is conducting a detailed analysis of the development opportunity.
Should the development be approved it will make travel planning and movement across Saudi Arabia simpler and more efficient for pilgrims in the Kingdom.
Transport and Logistics minister Al Jasser said around 1.5m passengers used the Mashair Train already this year. With expected high demand during the Hajj period this year additional trips have been scheduled for the rail network.
What’s more, the Haramain Train, a key network joining Makkah and Madina, via Jeddah and King Abdullah Economic City, plays a significant role in transporting pilgrims.
Rail transportation is becoming increasingly important in Saudi Arabia.
According to official data, in 2022, more than 5.8m passengers were transported via railway networks, a 115 per cent increase compared to 2021.
More than 1.3 million pilgrims were transported via Al Mashaaer Al Mugaddassah Metro during the Hajj season 1443 AH, and more than 23 million tonnes of minerals and goods were transported via trains, a 9 per cent increase over 2021.
Source: The Arabian Business
By: Gurmeet Singh
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