Sep 25, 2018
Written by Keith Barrow

KING Salman of Saudi Arabia officially inaugurated the Haramain high-speed line in a ceremony at Jeddah station on September 25.

 

The 453km line connects the holy cities of Mecca and Medina via Jeddah and King Abdullah Economic City, with a short branch serving King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah, the principal point of entry for Hajj pilgrims.

Guests at the inauguration ceremony included Spain’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Mr Álvaro Iranzo, Saudi Railway Organisation president Dr Rumaih Al-Rumaih, the president of the Spanish High-Speed Mecca Medina Commission (CEAVMM), Mr Jorge Segrelles, and Mr Carlos Oriol, chairman of rolling stock supplier Talgo.

Mecca’s high-speed station is located in the district of Rusayfah at the entrance to the holy city and about 4km from the Holy Mosque.

“The journey between the Haramain [two holy mosques] is now shorter and easier than at any time before,” transport minister Dr Nabil al-Amoudi said at the opening ceremony. “The project highlights the kingdom’s commitment to serving Islam and Muslims.”

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