SAR launches a competition to manufacture 10 trains for the Northern Network
In a strategic move aimed at transforming the Kingdom's rail transport sector, the Saudi Railway Company (SAR) has announced a global tender for the manufacture and supply of ten state-of-the-art passenger trains for its Northern Network. This announcement is the culmination of the company's ongoing efforts to develop transport infrastructure, in line with the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy stemming from the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
Competition details and application deadline
SAR clarified that the scope of work in this tender extends beyond manufacturing to encompass a comprehensive process starting with advanced engineering design, through manufacturing and supply, and culminating in the provision of long-term maintenance services for the new fleet. This comprehensiveness of the contract aims to ensure asset sustainability and raise operational readiness to the highest international standards. The company has set May 11, 2026, as the deadline for receiving bids from competing companies, in accordance with the established procedures for tenders and procurement.
The importance of the northern network and its developmental context
The North Train Network is one of the longest railway networks in the region, stretching approximately 2,750 kilometers and connecting the capital, Riyadh, to the Kingdom's northern borders. Since its inception, this network has served as a vital artery for land transportation, providing a safe, fast, and comfortable alternative for travelers compared to highway travel. The project to add new trains will further enhance the network's position as a key element in connecting Saudi cities and will support economic and tourism activity in the regions through which the train passes.
A significant leap in capacity
Commenting on this massive project, Dr. Bashar bin Khalid Al-Malik, CEO of Saudi Railways (SAR), affirmed that fleet expansion is a cornerstone of the company's development plans. He noted that the introduction of the ten new trains will nearly triple the operational capacity of the Northern Network, pushing the target to over 2.4 million seats annually. This significant expansion will enable SAR to meet the anticipated growing demand in the coming years, particularly with the major events and development projects underway in the Kingdom.
Route and targeted stations
The new trains will enhance connectivity between major cities along the northern line, including Riyadh, Al Majma'ah, Al Qassim, Hail, Al Jawf, and Al Qurayyat. This move coincides with future network expansion plans that include adding new stations, most notably the Al Zulfi station, thus broadening the reach of rail transport services.
It is worth noting that this project coincides with a similar initiative for the Eastern Network, where ten more trains are currently being manufactured to serve that line, reflecting the comprehensiveness of SAR’s plan to modernize the entire transportation system in the Kingdom.
