Saudi Arabia Expands Haramain High-Speed Railway Fleet With 20 New Talgo Trains

DUBAI, February 2026 — Saudi Arabia is significantly expanding its high-speed rail network to meet escalating passenger demand and enhance connectivity across its key cities. This strategic investment underscores the Kingdom's commitment to modernizing its transportation infrastructure and supporting religious tourism.

Saudi Transport has awarded a substantial contract to Spanish manufacturer Talgo for the production and maintenance of 20 new high-speed trains. This order, valued at approximately €1.3 billion ($1.54 billion), will augment the existing fleet serving the Haramain High Speed Railway, which connects Mekkah, Medinah, and Jeddah. Each new train will comprise two power cars and 13 coaches, offering a capacity of 417 seats across two classes, alongside dedicated facilities for catering and passengers with reduced mobility.

The addition of these 20 trains is expected to increase the line's operational capacity from over 100 services daily to more than 140 during peak periods like the annual Hajj pilgrimage. This expansion aims to improve passenger experience, with the new trains featuring full platform-level access and internal step-free design for easier boarding and movement. Talgo will also extend its maintenance services for the entire fleet, encompassing the existing 35 trains and the new acquisitions, until 2033, with an option for an additional five years.

These new trains will operate alongside the 35 Talgo 350 trains previously supplied in 2018, which are capable of reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h. The Haramain Railway itself operates on a 450 km route built to high standards, featuring ERTMS Level 2 signalling. Talgo's continued involvement, including operating two maintenance facilities in Saudi Arabia, highlights a long-term commitment to the line's operational excellence.

This significant fleet expansion aligns with broader regional trends of substantial infrastructure development and the increasing reliance on high-speed rail to facilitate economic growth, improve inter-city mobility, and manage growing populations. The investment in the Haramain Railway is a critical component of Saudi Arabia's vision for enhanced connectivity and service delivery.

Source: Khaleej Times