What made this train journey different from others I’ve taken to various parts of the world? It provided comfort, a great view, and a Perfectly smooth ride. Locals and tourists are shifting towards traveling by train. In this blog, I will guide you if you want to travel through Saudi Arabia by rail. So here are a few easy strategies to help make your train travel more enjoyable.
Why Train Travel in Saudi Arabia?
Saudi Arabian railways have very comfortable and convenient trains for traveling nationwide. The railway system links the country’s major cities, including Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. It is also cost-effective if the distance is long. Nowadays, you can travel by train instead of car and do not have to pay attention to what is happening on the roads. For those planning their Umrah journey, must book the Low price Umrah packages from USA which can include train travel, making your trip both affordable and easy.
Pilgrims often consider the Haramain High-Speed Rail their favorite mode of travel. In two hours, it connects two of the most important cities—Makkah and Madinah. Tourists who prefer one-day adventures and don’t have time to explore the Great Sandy Desert would enjoy the North-South Railway, which travels through the desert and offers beautiful views. Trains are also cheaper, on time, safe for everyone, and help reduce traffic and pollution.
How to Book Train Tickets?
Purchasing a train ticket in Saudi Arabia is simple. It can be done online, through applications for mobile devices, or in person at train stations. Some websites like SAR and Haramain Railway make the work easier. Pre-flight, you can even select your seat and, of course, look up flight schedules.
Ticket booking should always be done in advance, especially during festive times. Demand is high during occasions such as Ramadan and the Hajj. Having an e-ticket on your phone helps avoid spending time at the station.
Know the Train Types
Saudi Arabia has two central rail systems:
- Haramain High-Speed Rail: This rail link connects Makkah, Madinah, Jeddah, and King Abdullah Economic City. It’s perfect for fast travel.
- SAR (Saudi Railway): Because these are longer routes, their premiums refer to routes such as Riyadh to Dammam and Riyadh to Al Jouf.
I prefer traveling to small towns and cities because people designed them for that purpose. Each train has different classes: economy, business, and VIP. Your budget and comfort level decide the training class you choose.
Arrive Early at the Station
Currently, Saudi Arabian train stations are relatively large and well organized. They provide parking, lounges, and other shops. Try to get to the terminal at least half an hour before the flight’s departure time. If you arrive early, you have time to locate your platform correctly and check your ticket.
Staff may ask for your identity or passport, so you are advised to keep your ID or passport with you. Security checks take little time but are very effective since they are biometric eye scans.
Enjoy Scenic Views
Train services in Saudi Arabia are well-planned, and passengers can enjoy beautiful views from the trains. The Haramain Rail passes through beautiful arid terrains. The Riyadh-Dammam line passes by both new cities and historical sites. Photograph from the window seat, but do not get close to doors or windows. Trains offer safety, but you must always follow safety rules. If you’re traveling for Hajj and Umrah, remember to apply for your Hajj Umrah VISA in advance to avoid any travel delays.
Use Onboard Facilities
Saudi trains have many facilities for everyone. You will find clean washrooms, Internet access, and suitable seating arrangements. Some trains even have Cafes where you can buy snacks and drinks. Use the dining options for long journeys. During a long trip, try some of the dining options. They serve all types of foods, including regional foods. If you’re traveling for Umrah, consider a low price Umrah package for a budget-friendly trip that includes train travel options. Hajj Umrah VISA is one of the crucial part of the hajj Umrah packages from USA as it gives you a legal permission to visit the Saudi Arabia. These are included in the Umrah Packages or Hajj packages.
Plan Your Stops
Most train lines link cities that have specific sites of interest. For example:
- Riyadh: Go to the National Museum and the King Abdulaziz Historical Center.
- Jeddah: Visit the area known as Al-Balad, Makkah’s old city.
- Dammam: You can relax on the clean beaches of Half Moon Bay.
Remember that planning stops can help you make the most of your journey. You can take local taxis or buses from railheads to some of the attractions.
Traveling During Peak Seasons
Train travel increases during festivals, the Islamic month of Ramadan, and the pilgrimage season. It is advisable to buy your tickets and accommodation as early as possible. You should expect larger crowds at the stations. If you can, avoid peak hours when using the transport facilities. Trains are also less populated in the early morning or late at night.
Safety Tips
Saudi Arabia has safe trains, but it’s important to stay secure while traveling. Be careful with what belongs to you and where you are, particularly in places with too many people. Keep valuables secure, out of sight, and out of reach. Obey the train staff in circumstances of delay or any other complications. The trains have specific exits in case of an emergency and ‘first-aid kits’ to ensure the safety of the passengers.
Budget-Friendly Travel
Transportation by train in Saudi Arabia is cheap. The economy class severs satisfactory comfort at the lowest price range. Remember to take advantage of any opportunity during special seasons when prices will drop.
Group traveling is another way to cut costs. Most railway services always have group fares. It would help if you looked at their websites to see what offers they have at the moment.
Best Times to Travel by Train
Selecting when to travel increases your enjoyment. People generally regard November to February as winter, with less heat, making sightseeing more comfortable. Views can also be witnessed well in the morning whenever one plans to take a train journey. Also, do not plan your travel during midday, especially if you are traveling in summer; the heat is usually unbearable.
Traveling with Family
Train travel is specifically ideal for families. It is also friendly to children since it has vast seating and other facilities within the board. You can take kids’ food and other fun activities along the way. Most trains have well-stocked restrooms, which are helpful if one travels with children. For group travel, the seats should be booked together. This makes a journey comfortable for everybody.
Benefits of Train Travel
Choosing trains over other transport has many benefits:
- Comfort: Luxury means having big seats and a smooth ride to your destination.
- Time-Saving: Layouts like high-speed Haramain save hours, providing a fast way to the desired place.
- Safety: Traveling by train in Saudi Arabia is also very safe as the current rail systems are very secure when getting to the needed destination.
For these reasons, trains can be termed as the intelligent means for traveling around Saudi Arabia.
Final Thoughts
The Saudi Arabian railway is not only beautiful but using it to explore Saudi Arabia is equally exciting. Trains are convenient and smooth, and they offer comfortable trips since one is in a position to view beautiful scenery. If you plan your trip well, you will likely enjoy every bit of it. If you’re traveling for Umrah, consider applying for an e Visa Umrah to make the journey smoother. Here are a few tips to ensure a stress-free trip: book tickets, arrange arrangements, and start heading out.
