RCU Highlights Sustainable Mobility And Human Development At Saudi International Rail Exhibition 2025

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) is actively participating in the Saudi International Rail Exhibition and Conference 2025 in Riyadh. This event provides a platform for RCU to showcase its dedication to sustainable mobility, innovation, and human capability development in AlUla Governorate, aligning with both the AlUla Vision and Saudi Vision 2030.

During the exhibition, RCU will unveil a model of the future AlUla Tram project. This initiative exemplifies RCU's commitment to blending innovation and sustainability with heritage conservation. The tram system will span 22.4 kilometres, linking UNESCO World Heritage sites, historic towns, and urban centres within AlUla.

The AlUla Tram project is set to become the world's longest battery-operated, catenary-free tram system. It aims to offer a unique travel experience through a "Journey Through Time," connecting five significant heritage and cultural landscapes: AlUla Old Town, Dadan, Jabal Ikmah, the Nabataean Oasis, and Hegra city. This project seeks to provide authentic tourism experiences while safeguarding AlUla's cultural identity and natural surroundings.

In collaboration with French company Alstom, the tram's design incorporates innovative and climate-adaptive features. The project not only aims to enhance visitor experiences but also supports environmental preservation through clean transport technologies that align with Saudi Arabia's carbon reduction goals.

RCU is also emphasising its strategic partnership with the Saudi Railway Polytechnic (SRP) at the exhibition. This collaboration focuses on developing human capabilities by training young Saudis from AlUla in modern transport system operations and maintenance. Such initiatives ensure that future transport systems in AlUla are managed by skilled local professionals.

This focus on local expertise supports Saudi Vision 2030's ambitions for human capital development within the Kingdom's sustainable transport sector. By equipping locals with world-class skills, RCU ensures that projects like the experiential tram are built and operated by domestic talent.

Global Model for Sustainable Tourism

Through these efforts, RCU reinforces its leadership in integrating innovation with heritage preservation and human development. These initiatives position AlUla as a global model for sustainable tourism destinations offering unique experiences. The commission’s work highlights how innovation can coexist with cultural preservation while fostering local talent development.

The participation of RCU in this exhibition underscores its commitment to advancing sustainable transport solutions that align with broader national objectives. By focusing on clean technology and local expertise, RCU is setting a benchmark for future projects within Saudi Arabia and beyond.

With inputs from SPA