Damman August 10, 2005  - The Saudi Railways Organization (SRO) is currently finalizing plans for the procurement of the Makkah-Madinah Rail Link (MMRL) which will be undertaken by way of a tender for a BOT (build-operate-transfer) concession. SRO has engaged internationally renowned advisors such as SNCF International, UBS and Linklaters to support SRO during the pre-bid process.
 
The Saudi Railways Organization is seeking a technically advanced transportation solution which is economical to construct, easy to maintain and at the same time meets the requirements of passenger comfort, safety and environment for the Makkah-Madinah Rail Link project.  In this context, the SRO has been meeting with several companies interested in participating in the project.

In this regard, Bombardier representatives were pleased to hold meetings with His Excellency, the Saudi Minister of Transport, Dr. Jobarah Al-Suraisry and His Excellency the President of the Saudi Railways Organization, Mr. Khalid Alyahya, on July 25 and 26, 2005. During these presentations, held in Dammam and Riyadh, Bombardier representatives introduced several of Bombardier Transportation`s regional and inter-city technologies that might be applicable to the MMRL project. Bombardier Representatives responded to the SRO`s specific technical queries such as journey times, maximum carrying capacity and speed. Bombardier’s analysis focused particularly on the Hajj period, a short period when up to 2.5 million pilgrims travel between the Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah.

Bombardier is a world leader in the design, engineering and supply as well as the operation and maintenance of complete transportation systems and services.  As the world`s foremost supplier of total transit systems, they offer exceptional transportation solutions for both public and private developments. The portfolio of products includes regional inter-city and high speed systems. In the past, Bombardier has supplied bogies to SRO and is interested in expanding its activities in the Kingdom by becoming involved in such a strategic project for the Kingdom.

Bombardier was very impressed with SRO`s proactive approach. Implementing BOT projects requires companies that understand the complexities and resource needs associated with setting up concessions with investors, international lending institutions and owners. Bombardier is proud to have successfully implemented several complex projects over the last years including the massive London Underground project in the United Kingdom. "Bombardier understands what it takes from all participants to make BOT work and are committed to a mutually successful, long-term partnership with the Saudi Railways Organization." said Ray Betler, President of Total Transit Systems, Bombardier Transportation.