Al-Mashair Metro Launches Services for Hajj 2026
The Al-Mashair electric metro transport has begun transporting pilgrims between the holy sites of Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah with a capacity of 72,000 people per hour.
Infrastructure Launch for Millions of Pilgrims
On Sunday, the Al-Mashair metro officially started its first journeys for the 2026 Hajj season. The system serves nine stations, connecting the three main pilgrimage sites: Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. Each train can carry up to 3,000 passengers, and the overall capacity of the system reaches 72,000 people per hour — one of the highest figures in the world. For the current season, the transportation of over two million pilgrims is planned through 2,000 trips, which will reduce the number of bus trips by 50,000.
Technical Excellence and Preparation
Saudi Arabia Railways has conducted a complete preparation of a fleet of 17 trains before the Hajj season. The work included upgrading signaling, communication systems, and the control center. Each train is 277 meters long and can reach speeds of up to 80 km/h. The distance from the first station in Arafat to the third station in Mina is covered in about 20 minutes. The 18-kilometer line includes three stations in each of the holy cities plus the Jamaraat station, where pilgrims perform the ritual of throwing stones.
Environmental Friendliness and Reduced Road Load
The Al-Mashair metro operates on zero-emission electricity, aligning with the goals of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. The system replaces more than 50,000 bus trips, significantly reducing traffic on the roads to the holy sites and improving crowd management during peak periods. Since its launch in November 2010, the metro has become a key element of pilgrimage infrastructure, providing safe and convenient transportation between sacred places. Electric transport allows pilgrims to focus on the spiritual aspect of Hajj without worrying about logistics and fatigue from long journeys.
Integration into the Overall Pilgrimage System
The launch of the Al-Mashair metro demonstrates Saudi Arabia's comprehensive approach to developing pilgrimage tourism. The system is integrated into the overall infrastructure, including hotels, medical facilities, and information centers. An efficient transport network allows pilgrims from different countries to perform rituals with maximum comfort and safety. Investments in such infrastructure reflect the understanding that the quality of the pilgrimage experience directly depends on the thoughtfulness of each element of the journey — from booking to returning home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum capacity of one Al-Mashair metro train?
Each train can carry up to 3,000 passengers. With this capacity and frequency of trips, the system can transport 72,000 people per hour — one of the highest transport capacity figures in the world.
How long does it take to travel from Arafat to Mina?
The train covers the distance from the first station in Arafat to the third station in Mina in about 20 minutes, reaching a maximum speed of 80 km/h. This is significantly faster than traditional ground transportation methods.
Is the Al-Mashair metro an environmentally friendly mode of transport?
Yes, the metro operates entirely on zero-emission electricity. The system replaces more than 50,000 bus trips, reducing air pollution and contributing to the sustainable development of the region in line with the Vision 2030 goals.
