Saudi Arabia Railways orders ten additional intercity trains from Stadler
posted on 9th Oct 2026 14:49
On 9 October 2026, Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) has exercised the option included in the contract signed in February 2024 and ordered ten additional intercity trains from Stadler. This doubles the fleet of vehicles specially developed for Saudi Arabia to a total of twenty. The existing maintenance agreement will also be extended to cover the additional vehicles. The contract value exceeds 300 million CHF. The trains will be built in Switzerland.
The order followed a financing agreement that SAR signed at InnoTrans. The trains were developed jointly by Stadler and SAR to meet the climatic and operational requirements of Saudi Arabia. Extreme heat, sand, and demanding expectations regarding availability and passenger comfort have shaped the vehicle concept.
The approximately 175-metre-long trains feature two independent power cars and numerous redundant systems. Special protection and filtration systems help ensure reliable operation even under challenging environmental conditions. The trains accommodate around 320 passengers and meet the highest international standards.
By doubling the fleet, SAR continues to invest in a train concept that combines high performance with an exceptional travel experience. The vehicles feature different comfort classes, generous luggage areas, and various other amenities tailored to the needs of the Saudi Arabian market.
The trains are intended for operation on SAR’s East-West line and will connect the regions of Riyadh, Hofuf, Abqaiq and Dammam. The additional vehicles will be produced primarily at Stadler’s facilities in Switzerland. The bodyshells for the power cars will be manufactured at Stadler’s plant in Valencia. Production will commence directly following the first series, which entered production in April 2026.
Commercial passenger service is expected to begin in the second half of 2029. One milestone has already been confirmed: Stadler and SAR will present the new train to the public at InnoTrans 2028.
