Talgo Secures €1.33bn Order as Saudi Arabia Adds 20 Fast Trains

Saudi Arabia has ordered 20 new high-speed trains from Spain’s Talgo in a €1.33 billion deal, signaling how quickly Gulf transport projects are scaling up. The contract includes long-term maintenance and lifts Talgo’s backlog to nearly €6 billion, a company record. Reuters and Talgo both confirmed the announcement. 

The timing also matters: governments across the region are expanding rail capacity ahead of rising tourism, pilgrimage demand, and infrastructure targets linked to economic diversification plans.

Why This Deal Matters Beyond One Train Purchase

The new units will serve the Haramain high-speed corridor linking Mecca, Medina, and Jeddah, one of the region’s busiest passenger routes. Talgo has supplied the line since 2018, and this order deepens that relationship while locking in future technical support. 

Industry coverage says each trainset includes two power cars, 13 coaches, and 417 seats, with operating speeds up to 300 km/h. Reports also indicate strong seasonal peaks, with daily services rising during Hajj. The expansion gives Saudi Arabia Railways extra room to manage peak passenger surges without cutting frequency or comfort.

Official Social Update

Talgo posted contract confirmation on its official X account, and Reuters carried the update globally on the same day.

Trendline To Watch Next

This deal fits a bigger rail decade: Saudi Arabia is adding capacity, Spain is exporting rail expertise, and operators are bundling rolling stock with maintenance, digital systems, and longer service contracts. 

Spain’s transport minister also said the wider package supports Renfe’s role in Saudi high-speed operations through 2038 and brings more than €2.8 billion to Spanish companies. For investors and mobility watchers, that bundle model, not just train count, is becoming the real headline in cross-border rail deals. for more news updates, visit our Gulf Independent News page.

FAQs

How much is the Talgo-Saudi deal worth?

The contract is worth €1.33 billion and includes manufacturing plus long-term maintenance support services operations.

Which route will these trains operate on?

These trains serve the Haramain route connecting Mecca, Jeddah, and Medina, supporting pilgrimage traffic seasons.

What are the train speed and seating specs?

Each trainset has 417 seats and can run at speeds up to 300 km/h commercially.

Why is this important for Spain’s rail sector?

It boosts Talgo’s backlog near €6 billion and supports Renfe-linked Saudi operations through 2038 agreements.

Why should global infrastructure watchers care?

The deal signals long-horizon rail partnerships combining trains, maintenance, and geopolitical infrastructure cooperation models today.