Latest news with #SaudiArabiaRailways
Arab News
22-07-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Saudi delivery volumes surge to 101m in Q2 amid logistics push
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's delivery sector processed more than 101 million orders in the second quarter of 2025, driven by surging e-commerce demand and ongoing investments in logistics infrastructure, official data showed. According to the latest report from the Transport General Authority, Riyadh accounted for 45.04 percent of the total delivery volume, followed by Makkah at 21.17 percent and the Eastern Province with 15.87 percent. Saudi Arabia's delivery and rail sector expansion aligns closely with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which aims to position the Kingdom as a global logistics hub by 2030. Key NTLS goals include increasing the sector's gross domestic product contribution to 10 percent, expanding rail networks to 8,080 km, boosting port throughput to 40 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units annually, and enhancing air cargo capacity beyond 4.5 million tonnes. Other regions contributed smaller shares to the total delivery volume in the second quarter, including Al Madinah at 4.65 percent, Asir at 3.56 percent, and Al Qassim at 2.89 percent. Northern and less populated areas recorded modest volumes, with Al Baha at 0.21 percent, Northern Borders at 0.54 percent, Najran at 0.66 percent, and Al Jouf at 0.77 percent. This growth in delivery activity coincides with broader momentum in Saudi Arabia's transport and logistics infrastructure. In the first half of 2025, Saudi Arabia Railways recorded over 7.9 million passengers across 21,205 passenger train trips, an 8 percent increase from the previous year. The rail network also supported the 1446 Hajj season, transporting over 4.3 million pilgrims via the Haramain High-Speed Railway and nearly 5.1 million pilgrims through the Mashaer Train network. On the freight side, SAR moved more than 14.9 million tonnes of cargo during the same period, marking a 13 percent year-on-year increase. These logistics gains were reinforced by Saudi Arabia's active participation in key industry events and strategic partnerships with local and international firms. SAR's involvement in major exhibitions and forums, alongside collaborations with companies such as STC, Lucid, Turkish Airlines, and SDAIA, underscores the Kingdom's push to elevate transport capabilities and digital integration. Additionally, SAR's recognition through ISO certifications and national quality awards reflects the growing emphasis on service excellence and governance in the sector. Supported by regulatory reforms, digital transformation, and infrastructure investment, the National Transport and Logistics Strategy aims to leverage Saudi Arabia's strategic location to enhance multimodal connectivity and position the Kingdom among the world's top ten in the Global Logistics Performance Index.
Saudi Gazette
21-07-2025
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Railways transports 8 million passengers, 15 million tons of freight in H1 2025 performance
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) announced record operational results for the first half of 2025, transporting 7.93 million passengers across over 21,000 trips on its North, East, and Haramain High-Speed train networks — an 8% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The strong performance was bolstered by exceptional service during the Hajj season, which saw 1.2 million pilgrims transported via the Haramain line and 1.8 million via the Mashair Metro, totaling over 2,100 Hajj-related train journeys. On the freight side, SAR moved 14.93 million tons of minerals and goods — up 13% year-on-year — helping remove over 700,000 truck trips from the Kingdom's roads. This shift resulted in fuel savings exceeding 72 million liters and a reduction of 190,000 tons in carbon emissions, supporting Saudi Arabia's environmental sustainability goals and logistics efficiency targets. SAR CEO Dr. Bashar Al-Malik said the figures reflect the company's commitment to providing sustainable, efficient transport solutions in alignment with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy. Beyond operations, SAR continues to deliver long-term economic and environmental impact. Its local content initiative, part of the 'Asasat' program, is on track to surpass 60% by the end of the year, supporting national industries and creating quality job opportunities for Saudi talent. Al-Malik also emphasized SAR's vital role in advancing the Saudi Green Initiative by reducing emissions, lowering reliance on conventional trucking, and offering cleaner alternatives that enhance quality of life in cities across the Kingdom.
India Today
03-07-2025
- India Today
Luxury on rails: Five top trains to see the world
(NOTE: This article was originally published in the India Today Spice issue dated June 2025)Discover legendary routes along which traders once traversed in the east, landscapes that vary from the lush green countryside to the stark vastness of the Saudi desert and pristine rainforests of Malaysia, from the comfort of your gilded luxe cabins aboard new luxury trains that revive the golden days of slow travel with a new layer of opulence. While some are already on track, others will launch in the coming months. Get set to turn back the OF THE DESERT, SAUDI ARABIA Dream of the Desert is Saudi Arabia's first luxury train with 34 luxury suites on board advertisementIf crisscrossing lush green countryside is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a train journey, then board the Middle East's first five star luxury train to uncover a dramatically different landscape – the mystique of endless stretches of brown and red sand. The Dream of the Desert will depart from Saudi Arabia's capital Riyadh and go through some gorgeous terrain and natural sites which are expected to include Hail region, a UNESCO world heritage site. The itineraries are being finalised as it debuts towards the end of next year. Taking inspiration from what lies beyond its windows, the train, which has 34 suites will reflect the aesthetic of the desert while paying homage to Saudi culture and craftsmanship. It will all come with a touch of glamour -- think sandy and beige tones offset by shades of gold; intricate wood carvings, woven textiles and wood panelled walls. The reception lounge is designed like a traditional majlis, a communal sitting room in a Saudi home. Art pieces and photographs of Saudi cultural sites will adorn the corridors. When it comes to dining, the chefs will curate local and international cuisines. The train, a collaboration between Saudi Arabia Railways and Italy's Arsenale group, is being launched as the country steps up its game to woo by the end of 2026https:// The itineraries are being worked onLA DOLCE VITA ORIENT EXPRESS, ITALY Chug along with the gentle rhythm of the Italian countryside or the country's stunning southern coastline ensconced in a luxury cabin that evokes memories of the world's most famous train that once traversed Europe. The La Dolce Vita Orient Express, Italy, made its debut in April with a run from Rome to the medieval hilltop town of Montalcino along the 'Tastes of Tuscan Vineyards' route. It is the first of six trains that will wind along towns like Venice, Siena, Matera and the shores of Sicily for one or two nights offering eight itineraries. This luxury train fleet is not just reviving a legacy, it is redefining the world of slow travel from the moment you step into the plush La Dolce Vita lounge at Roma Ostiense its design inspired by 'the sweet life' (la dolce vita), the train's 12 deluxe cabins come with double beds, carpeted floors and wooden beamed ceilings. In its 18 suites, lounge on a sofa or armchairs as you watch Italy disappear in a blur from your window. For a more opulent experience, check into the signature La Dolce Vita suite. Sip the best wine from the region you are traversing as singers belt out Italian numbers and dine on crisp linen laid out with the finest porcelain on a menu curated by three-Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck with local culinary traditions in in April 2025Https:// train runs along eight different itineraries varying from 1 to 2 nightsBRITANNIC EXPLORER, UNITED KINGDOM There are two gorgeous dining cars at Britannic Explorer Come July and explore a slice of the English countryside, whether it is the rolling hills of Wales, the shimmering coast of Cornwall or the peaks and serene water bodies of the Lake District in the country's first luxury sleeper train by the Belmond Group. Starting from London, it will glide along these three regions offering either three or six night journeys. Besides 15 plush, oak panelled suites, it has three grand suites that come with double beds, marble bathrooms and personal butler service. Meals are curated by award-winning British Chef Simon Rogan The experience will be quintessentially English all the way—from a typical afternoon tea to meals crafted by award-winning British Chef Simon Rogan. They will be served in two dining cars where soothing cream and green interiors reflect an English country garden. When you want a tipple, head to the Observation car—the train's social hub— stocked with artisan gins and craft beers or choose a cocktail mixed with botanicals inspired by Victorian apothecaries. Depending on the route you are traversing, stroll in a lavender meadow, hike, swim, party at a Cotswolds pub, or attend a gala dinner in a 15th century mansion in Oxfordshire when the train halts. And while on board, take time out to indulge in relaxing therapies and massages in the Wellness will run from July train offers seven itineraries varying from 3 to 6 nightsEASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS,MALAYSIA There are two dining cars on board offering cuisine from East Asia; One of the train itineraries goes through a national park You wouldn't have experienced South East Asia like this before. Winding its way from Singapore to Malaysia's tropical jungles, islands and small towns, the luxury Eastern and Oriental Express was relaunched last year after the pandemic. While its trademark green and gold exterior is unchanged, the interiors have been given a facelift and it has added two new seasonal routes to the six itineraries it offers. On 'Wild Malaysia,' the hero stop is the Teman Negara National park, one of the world's oldest rainforests which one explores in open jeeps, hoping of course to sight the endangered Malayan tiger. The other new route - Essence of Malaysia - goes through Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi and Penang allowing time for activities like the three nights on the train, spend time in revamped cabins, suites and two Presidential Suites that come with cherrywood panelling, silk fabrics and patterned carpets. Dine on sumptuous East Asian cuisine prepared by chef Andre Chiang in the two beautiful dining cars. The train's social heart is the gorgeous Piano Bar where performers entertain passengers as they sip wine or a signature cocktail in crystal glasses. The pampering does not end here – when there is time to spare, head to Southeast Asia's first Dior spa on a train. Done up with the brand's iconic Toile de Jouy motif, it offers five treatments in two rooms. But the journey's best moments may well be just sitting back in the Observation Car to enjoy the train's gentle rhythm as picturesque rice fields and small towns roll in February 2024Https:// train offers six itineraries – five are for 3 nights and one is for 6 nightsGOLDEN EAGLE SILK ROAD EXPRESS, ASIA The train goes through various terrains including a desert The bathroom of the Han Dynasty Suites comes with a bathtub For centuries, merchants plied the ancient Silk route in horse and camel driven caravans. Starting next year, explore some of those legendary trails in the lap of luxury on board the new Golden Eagle Silk Road Express via three different itineraries. Take a 22 day journey from Beijing to Tashkent in Uzbekistan that will cross historic cities like Samarkand and Bukhara, a 13 day journey from Urumqi to Lhasa in Tibet. Whatever you choose, ancient cultures will unravel. In its two restaurant cars—Western-style and Chinese-style—the smallest details scream sophistication. The luxury quotient will go up many notches for those checking into the Han Dynasty Suite that comes with a bottle of Dom Perignon champagne, a separate living room and dining table. The Observation Car is the perfect place to watch the landscape rolling by and when you want to unwind with a cocktail or wine, head to the Bar Car where tunes from a grand piano fill the room each train will launch in train will have three itineraries varying from 12 to 22 daysSubscribe to India Today Magazine- Ends
Saudi Gazette
10-06-2025
- Saudi Gazette
Mashaer Metro serves 1.87 million passengers during Hajj
Saudi Gazette report MAKKAH — The Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) transported approximately 1.87 million passengers, including pilgrims and Hajj officials, with operating 2,154 trips during the Hajj 2025. The SAR operated Mashaer Metro Train between the stations of Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat during the period from Dhul Hijjah 7 until the end of the Days of Tashreeq (Dhul Hijjah 13). The operational plan for the Mashaer Metro Train during the Hajj season included five main phases. The first phase, from Dhu Al-Hijjah 7 to 8, transported over 27,000 passengers across all stations. The second phase carried 282,000 pilgrims from Mina to Arafat, followed by the third phase, which transported 294,000 pilgrims from Arafat to Muzdalifah. In the fourth phase, more than 349,000 pilgrims were transported from Muzdalifah to Mina. The final phase, which lasted until sunset on the last day of Tashreeq, recorded the movement of over 920,000 passengers to and from Mina 3 (Jamarat) station. CEO of SAR Dr. Bashar Al-Malik expressed appreciation for the support and empowerment of the Saudi leadership, which contributed to the integration of efforts and services offered to pilgrims, including transportation through the Mashaer Metro Train. He noted that the successful completion of the operational plan reflects the efforts of SAR employees and the effective coordination with operational and security agencies, supported by extensive preparatory work, including simulation exercises and full-scale trial runs, ensuring the highest levels of readiness and safety.
Saudi Gazette
03-06-2025
- General
- Saudi Gazette
Mashaer Train begins Hajj trips on Tuesday
Saudi Gazette report MINA — The Mashaer Metro Train made its first trip on Tuesday morning in preparation for the Hajj season, which begins on Wednesday when Hajj pilgrims heading to Mina to spend the Day of Tarwiyah. The train will operate 2,000 trips to transport two million pilgrims during the Hajj season. As part of its national role in serving pilgrims and in line with the Kingdom's efforts to enhance transportation systems and improve service quality during the Hajj season, the Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) has announced the full operational readiness of the Mashaer Train for the Hajj season. SAR has completed its preparations in coordination with various relevant entities, particularly security and service authorities. Comprehensive operational preparation included nearly 12,000 trial trips since last January, in addition to four full-scale simulation exercises accurately replicating the conditions of the Hajj season to test the readiness of systems, trains, and stations and ensure safe and efficient operations. The Mashaer Train operates on five distinct service patterns tailored to different Hajj rituals, making it a unique transport system globally. During the Hajj season, the train is scheduled to carry out its operations with high efficiency and precise organization within those five operational patterns. SAR also conducted extensive maintenance and rigorous testing on all facilities and stations of the project to ensure their readiness and compliance with safety and quality standards. The train connects nine stations across the holy sites of Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina, with the final station in Mina located on the fourth level of the Jamarat Bridge, enhancing the smooth movement and safety of pilgrims. The Mashaer Train is one of the region's most remarkable sustainable transport projects. It operates a fleet of 17 trains, each with a capacity of 3,000 passengers, enabling a total transport capacity exceeding 72,000 passengers per hour. This helps reduce congestion in the holy sites, lower carbon emissions, and provide a smart, safe, and environmentally friendly travel experience. The operation of the train reflects SAR's commitment to supporting Saudi Vision 2030 by enabling a reliable, efficient, and sustainable transport experience for pilgrims, showcasing the Kingdom's advanced infrastructure and improving the quality of services provided.
