RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Haramain Express is prepared to meet expected demand for train trips during this year’s Hajj season.
Saudi Arabian Railways, in coordination with the operators of Haramain Express, said they plan to operate more than 3,800 train trips, providing more than 1.6 million seats, an increase of more than 100,000 seats compared with last year.
By connecting Makkah with Madinah via a double railway line, the Haramain Express provides safe transport for pilgrims, Umrah performers and travelers between the two holy cities and the city of Jeddah.
Haramain Express Train is considered one of the 10 fastest electric trains in the world and is capable of speeds up to 300 kph while using advanced signaling and communications systems, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Launched in September 2018, it is a crucial part of the development plan and expansion program in the Saudi railway network. The project connects the main cities in the Western Region, addressing the growing demand to serve increasing numbers of internal and external pilgrims and reducing congestion on the roads in Makkah, Madinah and Jeddah.
The Haramain Express Railway is a 453 kilometer route linking Madinah and Makkah. It has a 449 km line from Makkah to Madinah and a 3.75-km branch connection to King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.