Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to become one of the world’s leading destinations for sustainable and experiential travel have just been given a significant boost. Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) has won the Tourist-Friendly Long-Distance Award at the inaugural International Union of Railways (UIC) TopRail Tourist-Friendly Awards, held in Paris on 16 October 2025.
The award recognises SAR’s success in redefining the rail experience for leisure and cultural travellers. Its night trains, which connect key destinations across the Kingdom, were praised for combining comfort, environmental performance, and accessibility. Each service offers private sleeping cabins, a restaurant car, inclusive facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, and even a car-shipping option, allowing travellers to continue their journeys seamlessly after arrival.
Far from being a simple mode of transport, these trains provide an immersive tourism experience. They link some of Saudi Arabia’s most significant heritage, cultural, and natural sites, including several UNESCO World Heritage destinations, thereby strengthening regional connectivity and encouraging exploration beyond the main urban centres.
SAR’s operations also contribute directly to sustainable tourism goals by helping reduce millions of kilograms of CO₂ emissions each year and offering an attractive alternative to long-distance car travel.
This international recognition underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing reputation as a country where mobility, innovation, and tourism meet. It also aligns perfectly with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and Vision 2030, which position the Kingdom as a global logistics hub and a pioneer of environmentally responsible travel.
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Photo top of page: High-speed train of Saudi Rail Network. Source: Saudi Rail
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