The region of AlUla is introducing a new public transport project that aims to improve visitor access to some of Saudi Arabia’s most important heritage sites. The AlUla tramway, expected to launch operational services in the second half of 2027, will become the world’s longest battery-powered, catenary-free tramway.
The tramway will cover 22.4 kilometres and include 17 stations, each featuring a distinct architectural design. The route follows the historic path of the former Hijaz railway.
It will connect five of AlUla’s most important heritage sites:
- AlUla Old Town
- Dadan
- Jabal Ikmah
- Nabataean Horizon
- Hegra Historical City (a UNESCO World Heritage site)
These locations represent some of the most significant archaeological and cultural landmarks in the Kingdom.
The tramway is battery-powered and will operate without overhead electric cables. It will also integrate with other sustainable mobility options in AlUla, such as electric shuttles, e-bikes, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
The tramway will eventually expand to over 50 kilometres once both phases of the project are complete. The development is part of AlUla’s long-term infrastructure plans to support cultural tourism and low-impact transit.
If you’re fascinated by how rail is reshaping travel in the Kingdom, make sure to check out our article on Dream of the Desert — a luxury train line that will link Riyadh and Al Qurayyat, weaving through some of Saudi Arabia’s most captivating terrain. Operations are expected to begin by the end of Q3 2026.
