Berlin, September 30, 2024 – Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) successfully concluded its participation in the prestigious International Trade Fair for Transport Technology (InnoTrans), which was held in Berlin from September 24 to 27. SAR's involvement in this globally renowned event demonstrated the Kingdom’s commitment to advancing its railway sector by embracing international collaborations and cutting-edge technologies.
SAR's pavilion at the exhibition became a hub of activity, where numerous contracts, agreements, and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed. Notably, SAR entered into a strategic contract with Deutsche Bahn, one of Germany’s leading rail companies, to provide manpower and technical expertise to accelerate project completion in Saudi Arabia. Several additional agreements were inked with prominent international firms, focusing on the exchange of expertise, integration of the latest technological advancements, and localization of the railway industry within the Kingdom.
In its presentations, SAR showcased the remarkable development of Saudi Arabia's railway infrastructure, emphasizing its role in transforming the nation's transport sector. Among the key highlights was the use of one of the longest freight trains in operation globally, the operation of one of the world’s fastest electric trains, and the implementation of the European Train Control System (ETCS L2) on the world’s longest railway line. These advancements reflect SAR’s pursuit of excellence in both freight and passenger services, positioning the Kingdom as a leader in railway technology.
Visitors to the SAR pavilion were also given an exclusive look into the future of Saudi railways, with presentations on innovative services like the “Dream of the Desert” train, an initiative aimed at enhancing tourism and luxury travel experiences. Furthermore, SAR highlighted its pioneering experiments with hydrogen-powered trains, signaling the Kingdom's commitment to environmental sustainability and the adoption of the most advanced, eco-friendly technologies in the railway sector.
SAR’s participation at InnoTrans underscores its ongoing efforts to modernize and expand Saudi Arabia's railway network while contributing to the global conversation on sustainable and advanced transportation solutions.