Saudi Arabia Railways Tender Signals Northern Network Expansion

RIYADH, January 2026 — Saudi Arabian Railways (SAR) has formally announced a tender inviting proposals for the design, manufacturing, supply, and long-term maintenance of ten new passenger trains. This undertaking is part of a strategic initiative aimed at expanding the capacity of the Kingdom’s Northern Railway Network, in accordance with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and the Vision 2030 framework.

The new rolling stock is intended to enhance service along the northern corridor, which links key cities such as Riyadh, Al-Majmaah, Qassim, Hail, Jouf, and Al-Qurayyat. By bolstering this route, SAR seeks to significantly improve intercity rail connectivity across central and northern Saudi Arabia, thereby facilitating more efficient travel for both residents and tourists. SAR estimates that the introduction of these trains will result in an annual seating capacity that exceeds 2.4 million passengers, addressing the increasing demand for dependable and efficient intercity travel.

The tender employs a comprehensive lifecycle approach, encompassing all aspects of train design, manufacturing, delivery, and ongoing maintenance. This method underscores SAR's commitment to enhancing operational efficiency, service reliability, and sustainability of its assets throughout their operational lifespan. By ensuring that trains perform consistently over time, SAR aims to provide an elevated quality of service to its passengers.

The expansion of the northern line is a crucial component of a broader, phased modernization program for the Kingdom’s rail network. In addition to this initiative, SAR is advancing plans to acquire additional trains for the eastern line, which further signifies its dedication to fleet renewal and the growth of capacity across the entire network.

This development signifies Saudi Arabia’s continued investment in rail infrastructure, recognized as a vital driver of economic growth, regional integration, and sustainable mobility. As governments throughout the Middle East and Asia increasingly prioritize modern rail systems as foundational elements of their national transport strategies, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a leader in this area. The establishment of an advanced rail transport system is viewed as an essential facilitator in achieving long-term economic diversification, as articulated in Vision 2030, thereby promoting a more sustainable and diversified economy.