Discovering Hejaz Railway, Saudi Arabia - Riding the Rails of History

Riding the rails of the ancient Hejaz line, a journey through time awaits. From the golden sands of Arabia's deserts to the bustling metropolis of Damascus, the Hejaz railway tells a story of adventure, conflict, and innovation. Through this article, we will take you to discover the rich history and enduring legacy of this engineering marvel, connecting nations and cultures and marveling at the breathtaking landscapes along the way.

The Origins of the Hejaz Railway

In the heart of Saudi Arabia lies the Hejaz Railway, a once great engineering feat whose history dates back over a century. The Ottoman Empire gained numerous benefits from the construction of the railway, with the most significant being the ease of pilgrimage. The old camel caravans, which took over 40 days to reach Madinah from Damascus, were replaced, which allowed pilgrims from Anatolia, Central Asia, and Russia to meet and strengthen their Islamic ties.

Construction of the Hejaz Railway began in 1900 and was carried out with incredible speed and precision. By 1908, the railway stretched an impressive 1,600km from Damascus (Syria) to Medina (Saudi Arabia), a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the project's engineers and laborers. However, despite its success, the railway's final leg to Makkah was never realized.

The Hejaz Railway's history is not without its share of drama and tragedy. During World War I, the railway became a strategic target for T.E. Lawrence and his Arab allies. They launched a series of daring attacks on the railway's supply lines, bridges, and stations, causing extensive damage to the railway's infrastructure. By 1918, just two decades after its creation, the railway lay in ruins, and the track was unofficially abandoned by 1920.

The Hejaz railway was an ambitious project that proved to be a significant achievement, despite being rarely discussed today. European powers initially viewed the project as unrealistic and wondered if the declining Ottoman Empire's political and financial ability to complete it. The Hejaz railway’s cost is around 4 million Ottoman liras, roughly 570 kilograms of gold. Interestingly, the railway's construction costs were mainly covered by contributions from Muslims worldwide, in addition to Ottoman state revenues and taxes. German and Turkish engineers, along with local workers hired from the regions along the railway route, were responsible for constructing the railway line. However, the project was considered "sacred," with only Muslim-funded capital being accepted. Even today, the project remains wakif, an asset that belongs to all Muslims. Despite the challenges and costs, the Hejaz railway stands as a remarkable achievement in Islamic history.

The Hejaz Railway is a remarkable achievement in Islamic history

What To See In Hijaz Railway?

Hejaz railway museum

The Hejaz Railway Museum, also referred to as the Al Madinah Museum, is a must-visited destination for visitors to the Holy City of Madinah. Opened in 2006, the present museum has transformed into a valuable collection of Islamic historical artifacts and those from the Madinah area. It offers a great opportunity to learn about the area's fascinating history and railway station development, especially during the Ottoman Empire. During their visit, tourists can also gain insight into poignant Islamic history. Notably, one of the museum's most significant exhibits is Saad ibn Abi Waqqas' bow, which he utilized to protect Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). Additionally, many stone inscriptions of The Holy Quran from previous generations have been carefully conserved in this museum.

Hijaz Railway station

The most easily accessible remains of the Hejaz railway stations are found in Medina and Tabuk, where the line's largest stations were built and have now been restored for tourists. Locomotives and information centers have been added to give visitors a more immersive experience of the railway's history. Within the stations, visitors can explore various artifacts, manuscripts, and photographs that recount the railway's stories from a bygone era. An old model locomotive and freight car can be found in the northern Tabuk station, adding to the overall experience. 

For a more authentic experience, one needs an SUV and a map to reach Al Buwayr station. It's an hour's drive northwest of the Medina-Al Ula road and features an almost-complete train and several carriages, along with the remains of a station and fort that soldiers once used to protect the railway line. 

Hejaz railway stations have now been restored for tourists

Despite its troubled history and challenges during its construction, the Hejaz railway remains an important symbol of Islamic heritage, serving as a reminder of the region's past and cultural significance. Visiting the rails of history, visitors can connect with the past and appreciate the ingenuity and determination of those who built this remarkable railway. A trip to Saudi Arabia promises to bring you many memorable experiences owing to the breathtaking sceneries with the ancient heritage and culture of the country. Apply for a KSA visa now and discover what Saudi Arabia has to offer!