The first high-speed electric trains between Makkah and Madinah will be running by September, Saudi Transport Minister Nabil bin Mohammed Al-Amoudi said.
The 453-kilometer double-track railway links Makkah with Jeddah, King Abdul Aziz International Airport, King Abdullah Economic City (a port city on the Red Sea) and Medina.
Pilgrims will not need to spend days in the heat of the desert making the journey. They will travel in safety and comfort with air-conditioner, WiFi and other luxury amenities at up to 300 km an hour.
The distance will be covered in just two hours, including a few stops along the way.
This will be the first high-speed train in the Middle East.