The project will be the world’s longest battery-powered, catenary-free tramway line.
AlUla is already known for its cinematic desertscapes, ancient wonders and striking blend of past and present. Now, it’s on track to revolutionise how visitors experience the region. The historic destination is set to welcome the AlUla tramway, the world’s longest battery-powered, catenary-free tramway, creating a seamless journey through time, heritage and innovation.
Spanning 22.4 kilometres and featuring 17 architecturally distinct stations, the AlUla tramway will retrace the path of the iconic Hijaz railway. Once complete, it will connect five of AlUla’s most important heritage sites: the atmospheric AlUla Old Town, the ancient ruins of Dadan, the petroglyph-rich Jabal Ikmah, the desert expanse of Nabataean Horizon, and the UNESCO-listed Hegra Historical City. The tramway will not only provide ease of access but also elevate the journey into an immersive cultural experience.
Unlike typical mass transit projects, the AlIUla tramway will integrate with wider sustainable mobility options such as e-bikes, electric shuttles and pedestrian-friendly pathways, offering a fully connected, low-impact way to explore. It’s a bold vision, combining Saudi Arabia’s forward-thinking green agenda with a deep reverence for its storied past.
With infrastructure works underway since 2024, the Royal Commission for AlUla aims to launch operational services by the second half of 2027. Upon completion of both phases, the total network will stretch over 50 kilometres. Backed by an investment of more than €500 million, the project underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to eco-conscious development.
Mohamed Khalil, Managing Director of Middle East RHQ, said: “The priorities of this project differ from those of a mass transit project. AlUla is much more than just a tramway. It is designed to offer a total experience, a true ‘wow factor’, transporting passengers back in time. Imagine stepping into a scene straight out of Lawrence of Arabia, where history meets cinematic grandeur, all set against the timeless beauty of the AlUla desert.”
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