Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) has completed its operational preparations for the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH, unveiling its most ambitious plan yet for the Haramain High-Speed Railway. The railway will operate more than 3,662 trips throughout the month, offering over 1.7 million seats to worshipers traveling between the two holy cities.
A Record-Breaking Ramadan Season
The operational plan calls for more than 100 daily trips, with schedules carefully aligned to prayer times and the movement patterns of Umrah performers and visitors. The Haramain Railway, one of the fastest passenger trains in the world, connects Makkah and Madinah via Jeddah and King Abdullah Economic City along a 453-kilometer route, reaching speeds of up to 300 kilometers per hour.
The scale of this year’s Ramadan plan reflects the railway’s growing role in Saudi Arabia’s transport infrastructure. In 2025, the train exceeded record passenger numbers, maintaining a 95 percent reliability rate for scheduled departures. During last year’s Hajj season, the railway transported more than one million pilgrims between the holy sites, significantly reducing reliance on traditional road transport.
Expanding Capacity for the Future
SAR has also signed an agreement with Spain’s Talgo to supply 20 new trains, part of a broader strategy to raise the railway’s annual passenger capacity to 30 million. The expansion aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals to enhance mobility and improve the experience for the Kingdom’s guests.
Beyond increasing trip frequency, SAR has upgraded its digital booking application to streamline ticket management and seat selection. Stations in Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah have been equipped with enhanced amenities, including spacious waiting lounges, prayer halls accommodating over a thousand worshipers, restaurants, cafes, and dedicated VIP facilities.
A Greener Journey Between Holy Cities
The railway’s electric-powered operation contributes to Saudi Arabia’s sustainability objectives by reducing carbon emissions compared to road-based alternatives. The five-station network, spanning Madinah, King Abdullah Economic City, King Abdulaziz International Airport, Jeddah’s Sulaymaniyah station, and Makkah, provides a seamless travel experience designed around comfort, speed, and environmental responsibility.
Travelers can book their journeys through the Nusuk application, which offers flexible scheduling options tailored to the needs of Ramadan visitors. With this year’s comprehensive plan, the Haramain High-Speed Railway continues to cement its position as a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s modern transport system and a vital link serving millions of pilgrims and visitors each year.
