A consortium of Spanish and Saudi companies, headed by ADIF and RENFE, is to construct and operate the high speed line between Mecca and Medina. The project, which will have trains equipped with the latest signalling technology and communications systems, includes the high speed twin electrified track route, designed for speeds of 320 km/h on UIC gauge, enabling the journey between Mecca and Medina to be made in less than 2 hours and 30 minutes. The contract will involve the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the line and the trains for a period of 12 years. The 450-kilometre line will service over 160,000 pilgrims a day.

(Source: ADIF)