Riyadh, March 19, 2024, As Ramadan approaches, the Haramain High Speed Railway is poised to accommodate the burgeoning demand for transportation between Makkah and Madinah, gearing up to operate over 2,700 trips during the holy month. This high-speed train, boasting a remarkable top speed of 300 km/hr, is set to traverse the 449 km distance between the two revered cities in just under two and a half hours. To ensure seamless operations amidst the anticipated surge in demand, Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) has collaborated closely with the operating company to develop a comprehensive plan.
Ranked among the top 10 fastest electric trains worldwide, the Haramain High Speed Railway is equipped with cutting-edge signaling and communications systems, underscoring its pivotal role in the kingdom's railway network development and expansion initiatives. Its primary objective is to cater to the escalating number of Umrah performers and visitors, both domestically and internationally, while simultaneously alleviating congestion on the roads linking Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah.
Since its inception in 2018, the Haramain High Speed Railway has facilitated the seamless movement of pilgrims, Umrah performers, and visitors across the three cities through its double railway line spanning 453 km. The train route encompasses five stations, including the pivotal Makkah Station, the Madinah Station, and the King Abdulaziz Airport station in Jeddah, along with two central stations: the main Jeddah station situated in the Sulaymaniyah district, and the King Abdullah Economic City station.
Of notable significance is the Haramain High Speed Railway station at King Abdulaziz Airport, recognized as the world's largest airport-linked train station. Covering an expansive area exceeding 105,000 square meters and spanning multiple floors, this station is equipped with six train platforms, facilitating seamless transportation for arriving passengers to various destinations without the need for additional modes of transportation.
The Haramain High Speed Railway fleet comprises 35 electric trains, each capable of accommodating 417 passengers across 13 cars, including five business class compartments, a cafeteria, and eight economy class compartments. With 113 business class seats and 304 economy class seats in total, the fleet ensures a comfortable and efficient travel experience for passengers traversing the sacred route between Makkah and Madinah.
