Makkah Gov. Prince Mishaal bin Abdullah, accompanied by Transport Minister Jabara Al-Seraisry, inspects the Haramain Railway Station in Makkah on Sunday.

The Haramain speed train project, which is in the final stages, will change the dynamics of pilgrim transportation between the two holy cities of Makkah and Madinah, said Gov. Prince Mishaal bin Abdullah.

Speaking to reporters after inspecting the progress of work on the project at Rusaifa, he emphasized the government’s continuing efforts to improve services being rendered to pilgrims coming for Haj and Umrah.

“The Haramain Railway will play a big role in facilitating transportation of pilgrims, helping them reach the holy places quickly. It will also contribute to reducing traffic congestion in the holy cities,” the governor said.

Transport Minister Jabara Al-Seraisry briefed Prince Mishaal on the railway describing it as one of the largest development projects in the Kingdom.

The Transport Ministry and Saudi Railway Organization have completed 70 percent of civilian works at the Rusaifa Station.

“The high speed train system will provide safe and quick transportation for the millions of pilgrims traveling between Makkah and Madinah,” said the minister. The 450-km railway passes by Jeddah, King Abdulaziz International Airport and King Abdullah Economic City in Rabigh.

The train system will carry more than 20 million passengers every year including pilgrims. It will have five stations and the main station in Makkah will have separate lounges for arrivals and departures, a mosque that can hold 600 worshippers, a helipad and 10 platforms for trains, a lounge for VIP passengers and parking for 500 cars.