Türkiye, Syria & Jordan Join Hands to Revive Historic Hejaz Railway

There are few train journeys that linger in the imagination quite like the Hejaz Railway. Over a hundred years ago, it carried pilgrims, soldiers, and traders across deserts, cutting through empires and connecting Damascus to Medina. Now, after lying derelict for decades, this legendary line is preparing to roar back to life. Türkiye, Syria, and Jordan have pledged to revive the Ottoman-era railway, setting the stage for a project that blends history, politics, and the promise of regional renewal.

Historic Roots Revisited

The First World War, however, put an abrupt halt to the line’s promise. Sabotaged during the Great Arab Revolt by fighters aided by British officer TE Lawrence, the tracks were torn apart. Though brief attempts at reopening followed in 1919 and 1925, the system gradually crumbled. Sections operated sporadically in Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon until conflict struck again in the 20th century. Medina station, once bustling with travellers, closed for good, and much of the route was swallowed by sand and time.

Revival Plans Ahead

The new plan, agreed upon during a tripartite meeting in Amman on September 12, marks the first serious attempt at restoration in decades. Türkiye will draw up a master plan and rebuild a 30-kilometre stretch of missing track in Syria. Jordan will take the lead on assessing technical capacity, particularly the maintenance and operation of locomotives. Joint studies are also on the table to strengthen Türkiye’s access to the Red Sea via Jordan’s Port of Aqaba. One immediate outcome is the reopening of road transport between Türkiye and Jordan through Syria after more than a decade-long pause caused by the civil war.

For the countries involved, this isn’t just about resurrecting an old railway. It is a chance to rebuild economic ties, create new trade routes, and reclaim a shared heritage. In many ways, the railway’s revival represents reconciliation as much as infrastructure, which is a literal track back to cooperation after years of disruption.

Symbol Of Renewal

Experts believe the project carries both symbolic and strategic weight. Restoring the Syria–Jordan link could unlock trade corridors stretching from Istanbul to the Red Sea and onward to Saudi Arabia and Africa. For Syria, battered by conflict, it could mean new opportunities for commerce. For Türkiye, it strengthens supply chains and underlines its role as a regional connector. And for Jordan, it adds both economic potential and a chance to preserve a railway that has long been part of its desert landscape.

Once completed, the revived Hejaz Railway will be more than steel tracks across sand. It will be a journey into history, a bridge between nations, and a reminder that rails can carry not just passengers and goods, but also the promise of peace and prosperity. For travellers, it may soon be possible to ride along the same route where camels once trudged and pilgrims once prayed, experiencing a chapter of history reimagined for the future.

FAQs

1. What is the Hejaz Railway?
An Ottoman-era rail line (1900–1908) linking Damascus to Medina, built for pilgrims and trade.

2. Why did it stop running?
It was sabotaged during World War I and later abandoned in sections.

3. Who is reviving it now?
Türkiye, Syria, and Jordan have agreed to restore parts of the route.

4. What’s the benefit of revival?
It boosts trade, reconnects neighbours, and preserves shared heritage.

5. Will it reach Mecca again?
Unclear for now. The focus is mainly on restoring the Syria–Jordan–Türkiye stretch.