The Haramain high-speed train travels a 450 km route across the desert at a speed of 300 km/h.
The Haramain high-speed train will carry millions of pilgrims to Mecca. Photo: AFP
With 50 trips a day, the Haramain high-speed train runs on a 450-kilometer (280-mile) route along the Red Sea coast. Haramain, which means “two sanctuaries” in Arabic, connects the cities of Mecca and Medina, which are located at opposite ends of the line. The train also connects Jeddah airport with King Abdullah Economic City, according to CNN . The elongated electric train runs across the scorching desert, carrying passengers at speeds of up to 300 kilometers per hour.
The Haramain train, among the world's 10 fastest, is the start of a rail network that will span Saudi Arabia as the country invests billions of dollars in infrastructure to boost tourism and diversify its revenue away from oil.
During the Hajj pilgrimage from June 26 to July 1, authorities will add more trains to accommodate the large number of visitors attending the religious event. According to Tawfiq Al Rabiah, Hajj Minister in Saudi Arabia, more than two million pilgrims from over 160 countries are expected to arrive this year. "With a smooth road and train network, shuttle bus services, and unified infrastructure, pilgrims will have a smooth travel experience," Al Rabiah said.
The stations along the line are efficient, modern and comfortable with beautiful designs. Both the Jeddah and KAEC stations are diamond-inspired and almost identical. Designed by British architecture firm Foster + Partners, the structures feature sharp angles, smooth black walls and small star-like carvings on the ceiling that allow light to shine through at different angles.
Saudi Arabia is planning to add more high-speed rail services in the near future. In January 2022, Investment Minister Khalid al-Falih announced plans to build 8,000 kilometers of railway across the country.
An Khang (According to CNN )
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