Alstom Secures Contract to Build Tramway Line in AlUla City

Alstom Group, a railway industry giant, has won a contract to build a tramway line in Saudi Arabia’s historical AlUla City, announced The French Agency for AlUla Development (Afalula).

Tramway Specifications

Spanning 22.5 km, the tramway will serve 17 stations. It will link UNESCO World Heritage sites, historical oasis towns, and modern urban centers within AlUla.

 Projected Launch and Benefits

Scheduled for completion in 2027, the AlUla tramway project aims to provide a unique experience combining heritage, culture, and nature. The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) states that this project is pivotal in AlUla’s development plan, advancing it as a global destination for arts, heritage, culture, and nature, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 goals.

 Sustainability and Accessibility

The tramway project is designed to enhance sustainable transportation, reduce road congestion, and lower noise levels. It will also employ efficient sustainable electric energy. The tramway will connect AlUla International Airport to five key historical areas in the city, offering a visually stunning journey from oases to desert landscapes.

Boosting Saudi-French Relations

The contract highlights growing Saudi-French collaborations, especially since Riyadh and Paris signed an agreement in 2018 to develop this expansive historical and tourist region. Afalula, led by former French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian since last July, is tasked with cooperating with Saudi authorities to develop AlUla’s tourism and cultural sectors.

 Economic Diversification

Amid efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil, Saudi Arabia is accelerating its trade partnerships with France to bolster tourism as a key economic sector. AlUla City is expected to attract between 1.5 to 2.5 million visitors annually, according to Saudi authorities.

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