Saudi Arabia is expanding the fleet of the Haramain High-Speed Railway with 20 new trains, a move set to significantly increase transport capacity for pilgrims travelling between the two holy cities. The order strengthens the backbone of pilgrim transport on the Makkah-Madinah-Jeddah line, which already carries millions of Hajj and Umrah travellers each year.

According to Khaleej Times and Railway Gazette International, the contract was awarded to the Spanish manufacturer Talgo through the Saudi Spanish Train Project Company, on behalf of Saudi Arabia Railways. The deal adds around EUR 1.3 billion to Talgo's order book and confirms that the Spanish operator will continue running services on behalf of Saudi Arabia Railways until 2038.

What the expansion delivers

The 20 new trainsets will match the configuration of the 35 Talgo 350 trains already in service, which were delivered in 2018. Each set consists of two power cars and 13 coaches, offering a total capacity of 417 seats across two classes. Delivery is scheduled between 2028 and 2031.

With the additional units, the operator will maintain a fleet of 55 trains, with the possibility of extending the arrangement to 2038. The larger fleet gives Saudi Arabia the flexibility to run more services during the intense demand peaks of Ramadan, the Umrah season, and Hajj, when the railway shifts enormous volumes of pilgrims in short windows.

A proven pilgrim workhorse

The Haramain High-Speed Railway connects Makkah and Madinah in about two and a half hours at speeds of up to 300 kilometres per hour, with stops at Jeddah, King Abdulaziz International Airport, and King Abdullah Economic City. For pilgrims, it offers a fast, air-conditioned alternative to congested road travel between the holy cities.

The line has repeatedly proven its value during peak seasons. In recent years the railway boosted capacity to well over two million seats for Hajj and Umrah periods, running large numbers of daily trips timed around prayer times and pilgrim movement. Stations along the route provide medical clinics, prayer areas, restaurants, pharmacies, and retail shops, making the journey itself part of the service experience.

Onboard, trains carry entertainment systems, food service, and accessible features for passengers with disabilities, with premium hospitality for business-class travellers. These features matter for elderly pilgrims and families who make up a large share of Hajj and Umrah traffic.

Part of a wider transport push

The fleet expansion fits into Saudi Arabia's broader strategy of scaling infrastructure to meet Vision 2030 targets for pilgrim numbers. As the Kingdom aims to welcome ever-larger numbers of Umrah and Hajj visitors, reliable mass transit between Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah becomes central to managing crowds safely and reducing pressure on roads.

The extended operating agreement through 2038 also signals continuity. Pilgrims and tour operators can plan around a railway that will keep expanding rather than facing uncertainty over its long-term operation.

Practical tips

  • Book early during peak seasons. Haramain tickets sell out fast in Ramadan, the Umrah season, and around Hajj. Reserve as soon as your dates are confirmed.
  • Use the Nusuk app. Haramain ticket booking is available through Nusuk, which now works even without mobile data for local SIM holders.
  • Arrive early at the station. Security and boarding for high-speed services close ahead of departure. Allow extra time during busy periods.
  • Travel light between cities. Check baggage allowances before you travel, as space is limited during crowded pilgrim seasons.
  • Consider off-peak trips. Where your schedule allows, travelling outside prayer-time surges can mean a calmer, less crowded journey.

For the millions who move between Makkah and Madinah each year, the arrival of 20 more high-speed trains points to shorter waits, more available seats, and a smoother journey between the two holiest cities in Islam.