Though a short flight is faster, traveling by rail offers more opportunities to see sights along the way. In fact, factoring in airport check-in, security, and boarding, a three-to-four-hour train ride isn’t far behind in terms of time. Adults can get a one-way economy ticket from Riyadh to Dammam for SAR105 (about US$28) or SAR170 (about US$45.33) for business class, which includes access to a special lounge.
Saudi’s rail system is run by state-owned train company Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR). The company currently operates two standard passenger lines from Riyadh and a high-speed railway between Al Madinah and Makkah.
The North Train runs from Riyadh to Qurayyat, close to the northern border with Jordan, with stops in Al Majmaah, Hail, Qassim and Jouf. The journey passes through rocky mountains and into the sandy dunes of the Al Nafud Desert.
The East Train takes passengers from Riyadh to Dammam, with stops in Buqayq and Hofuf. This second stop is nestled in the heart of AlAhsa Oasis, a natural wonder filled with more than 2.5 million palm trees and best known as one of the world’s top date producers.
Planning and development is in progress for a coastal railway that will link Saudi to the other five nations in the Gulf Cooperation Council. Once complete, the GCC railway will run from Kuwait City to Muscat, Oman, passing through Jubail and Dammam along the way.
The high-speed Haramain Train, a state-of-the-art rail service, offers convenience for both tourists and pilgrims. Connecting the holy cities of Al Madinah and Makkah, the Haramain High Speed Railway covers 449.2 kilometers (279.1 miles) of mainline tracks and incorporates a 3.75-kilometer (2.33-mile) branch connecting to King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah. At a top speed of 300 km/h (190 mph), you can get where you need to be on time.
During the Hajj pilgrimage, the Haramain Train serves as vital transportation, speeding pilgrims along their sacred journey with speed and efficiency.
Want to share your journey on social media or reply to an email? Not a problem. Wi-Fi is available on the train and in the waiting lounge at the stations. Another perk of traveling by train? The carriages are air-conditioned, which means summer travelers can enjoy the ride without working up a sweat. Additionally, all trains feature a café and prayer area onboard.
When booking your seat, try to secure a spot next to a window for the best views. Then sit back, relax and enjoy a memorable journey as you roll across the country soaking in stunning views of rippling dunes and sand flats.
For more transportation tips, check out this guide to getting around.
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