Alstom has signed a contract with the Royal Commission for AlUla to develop a battery-powered tramway system in AlUla, Saudi Arabia. 

The contract is worth more than €500m ($547.13m).  

The tramway is claimed to become the world's longest catenary-free line, spanning 22.4km.  

With 20 Citadis B battery trams, the system is expected to link 17 stations, offering access to five historical areas, including UNESCO World Heritage sites.  

Alstom’s role includes design and integration to installation, testing, and commissioning.  

The company will also manage the power supply, signalling, communication, and depot equipment for the development.

It will ensure the maintenance of the trams for ten years using its predictive maintenance and fleet management tool 'HealthHub'. 

Alstom's service teams will employ a mobile workshop to enhance flexibility and reduce capital expenditure.  

Leveraging Alstom’s expertise in integrated railway systems, the trams will be manufactured at various French production sites, including La Rochelle for both design and construction. 

Alstom Saudi Arabia managing director Mohamed Khalil said: “This project is truly unique as it combines sustainability, passenger experience, and immersion into the surroundings, in a region full of history and wonders.  

“It is so much more than a tramway and we are extremely honoured to have been selected by the Royal Commission of AlUla. This project incorporates many key elements of Vision 2030, including Saudi Arabia’s focus on environmental stewardship. We very much look forward to unveiling it to the world.”