In 1900 the Ottoman Sultan Abd Al Hamid ordered the construction of a railway from Damascus via Al-Ula to Al-Madina, through the Hijaz region of Arabia, to carry Muslim pilgrims to the Holy Cities (its true purpose was probably to strengthen the Ottoman grip in the region and promote trade between Damascus and Madinah).

Hijaz Railway was built by approximately 5,000 Turkish soldiers, and a German engineer, Meissner Pasha. It was opened throughout in September 1908. The well preserved Railway workshop, stations, engine and rolling stock can still be seen in Madain Salih which was an important depot of Hijaz Railway

For the route to Hijaz Railway, please proceed to the last page of this section

The Railway Workshop

Here you have full access to the railway station. The proud of the ottoman structures are quite evident here.

The Engine

Steam locomotives in Mada'in Salih were ordered from Germany, and other rolling stock from Belgium.

This engine shed and engine were restored in recent times

Rolling stock

This rolling stock is preserved in the Railway workshop

Interior of the Workshop