The Haramain High-Speed Railway transports 670,000 passengers during the Hajj season
An exceptional achievement in serving the guests of God
has achieved The Haramain High-Speed Railway an exceptional milestone since announcing its operational plan for the Hajj season, successfully transporting over 670,000 passengers. This impressive figure reflects the efficiency of the transportation system in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its complete readiness to serve pilgrims and facilitate their movement during the performance of the rituals with ease and peace of mind.
Figures and statistics reflecting readiness
This achievement was accomplished by operating over 2,900 trips, keeping pace with the ever-increasing influx of pilgrims to the Kingdom. These figures underscore the early readiness of the Haramain High-Speed Railway and its effective integration with various relevant systems and entities. During peak times, the number of daily trips reaches over 142, directly contributing to facilitating the movement of pilgrims between Makkah and Madinah.
Saudi Railways (SAR) had previously announced its comprehensive operational plan for the Hajj season, which includes providing more than 2.21 million seats across 5,308 trips throughout the season. The train will continue operating in the coming days with the highest level of readiness to handle the expected surge in passenger and traffic volumes.
Historical context and the goals of Vision 2030
Returning to the historical context, the Haramain High-Speed Railway project, officially launched in 2018, is one of the largest public transportation projects in the Middle East. This strategic project is an integral part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to improve the quality of services provided to pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah, and to increase the capacity to accommodate millions of Muslims from around the world. This massive investment in infrastructure reflects the Kingdom's historical and religious commitment to facilitating the Hajj pilgrimage and making it a safe and comfortable spiritual experience.
The local and international impact of the Haramain train
Domestically, the train has helped alleviate traffic congestion on the highways between Mecca, Jeddah, and Medina, and reduced carbon emissions, thus supporting environmental sustainability. Regionally and internationally, it has reinforced the Kingdom's position as a leader in managing massive crowds and providing advanced logistical and transportation solutions. Pilgrims arriving from around the world find this train a means of transport that meets the highest international standards, leaving a profound and positive impression and reflecting the bright image of Saudi development.
Global technical specifications
The Haramain High-Speed Railway is one of the fastest electric trains in the world, connecting Mecca and Medina via a 453-kilometer double-track line. The train stops at major stations including Jeddah, King Abdulaziz International Airport, and King Abdullah Economic City. Operating at speeds of up to 300 kilometers per hour, it utilizes a modern fleet of 35 trains, each with a capacity of 417 seats, ensuring the transport of massive numbers of passengers in record time and with the highest standards of safety and comfort.
