Pandrol and Links Investments to build rail fastening factory in Riyadh
Pandrol is to establish a rail fastening manufacturing facility in Riyadh, in conjunction with Riyadh-based Links Investments. The plant will produce rail fastening system components locally for Saudi Arabia's rail projects. It could also support rail development across the wider GCC.
Production is planned to begin in the first half of 2027. Pandrol said the venture will focus on building local content across the supply chain, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 goals for industrial growth, skills and economic diversification.
Guy Talbourdet, CEO of Pandrol, said: "Saudi Arabia is undertaking one of the most significant rail development programmes anywhere in the world." He added: "Establishing manufacturing in Riyadh brings Pandrol's rail fastenings closer to this major growth area for rail." He also said Links Investments "shares our commitment to quality and brings a deep understanding of the Saudi rail sector."
Links Investments is a diversified holding company. Its IROLLI business provides rolling stock and on-track plant leasing and sales, as well as rail operation, maintenance, construction, and design and engineering services.
The announcement comes as Saudi Arabia plans a rail network of more than 8,000 km. It follows recent contracts, including Alstom's €460 million order for additional driverless Metropolis trains for Riyadh Metro Lines 3, 4 and 6, and Stadler's supply of 10 more intercity trainsets for the East–West line. The investment value, capacity, ownership structure and job numbers have not been disclosed.
