KABUL: The Saudi National Railway Company has signed a new agreement with the Spanish company Talgo for the purchase of 20 high-speed trains.
The Saudi Gazette, an English-language publication in Saudi Arabia, reported on Sunday evening, that the delivery of these trains is set to begin at the end of 2028 and will continue until 2031. Once operational, along with the activation of five stations, the travel time between the holy cities of Mecca and Medina will be significantly reduced.
The contract was signed by Saleh Al-Jasser, Saudi Minister of Transport, Services, and Logistics, and Óscar Puente, Spain’s Minister of Transport and Mobility.
The total value of the contract for the new high-speed trains is reported to be $1.57 billion.
According to Saudi officials, the activation of the new trains will enhance the travel experience for pilgrims, particularly during the busy seasons of Hajj and Umrah.
Currently, the trains used for travel between Mecca and Medina already operate at speeds of 300 kilometers per hour.
Saudi Arabia purchases 20 high-speed trains to shorten Mecca-Medina travel
