Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) has exercised an option within its 2024 contract with Stadler, placing an order for ten additional intercity trainsets and doubling the fleet from ten to 20 units.
The deal, worth more than CHF 300 million (£270 million), also extends the existing maintenance agreement to cover the expanded fleet. The trains will be manufactured in Switzerland, with passenger service expected to begin in the second half of 2029.
The latest order follows a financing agreement signed by SAR during InnoTrans 2026 in Berlin, reinforcing confidence in Stadler's bespoke rolling stock solution developed specifically for the Saudi market.
Purpose-Built for Saudi Arabia's Challenging Conditions
Developed through close collaboration between Stadler and SAR, the trains have been designed to withstand some of the world's most demanding railway operating conditions.
Extreme temperatures, airborne sand, high availability requirements and passenger comfort expectations have all influenced the design.
Each train will be approximately 175 metres long and feature two independent power cars, alongside multiple redundant systems to maximise reliability. Special filtration and protection systems have also been incorporated to ensure dependable operation in harsh desert environments.
The trains will accommodate around 320 passengers while meeting the highest international standards for safety, performance and comfort.
Strong Endorsement from SAR
Commenting on the additional order, Lucius Gerig, Executive Vice President Division Switzerland and Member of the Group Executive Board, said:
"The exercise of this option is a great honour for us and a strong sign of trust. Together with SAR, we have developed a tailor-made solution that meets the highest standards in both technology and passenger comfort. The fact that our customer is already doubling the fleet at this stage underlines the strength of our partnership and makes us proud."
Boosting Capacity Across the East-West Corridor
By increasing the fleet to 20 trainsets, SAR is strengthening capacity on its growing passenger network while continuing to prioritise customer experience.
The new intercity trains will feature:
- Multiple comfort classes
- Generous luggage storage areas
- Passenger amenities tailored to the Saudi Arabian market
The fleet is destined for operation on SAR's East-West line, connecting Riyadh, Hofuf, Abqaiq and Dammam, providing enhanced capacity and improved passenger comfort across one of the Kingdom's key rail corridors.
Manufacturing Underway
Production of the additional trains will take place primarily at Stadler's Swiss facilities, while the power car bodyshells will be produced at the company's site in Valencia, Spain.
The order will move directly into production following the first batch of trains, which entered manufacturing in April 2026.
Image credits: Stadler
