The local Najd al-Arabiya for Joint Development is finalising plans with the government to develop a comprehensive transport system for Medina.

The group will submit final technical proposals for the estimated $1,100 million scheme imminently.

The integrated transport network aims to alleviate traffic congestion in the city, which receives more than 2.5 million pilgrims a year - a number that is expected to double over the next 20 years.

The network will integrate four different transport systems, including a light rail system comprising four monorail lines, with a length of at least 40 kilometres. The scheme also comprises two bus rapid transit (BRT) corridors across the city. Options under consideration for the BRT system include construction of separate BRT infrastructure and alternative scheduling and priority signalling to integrate the system with existing transport corridors.

The group will also develop a new feeder bus network connecting the city centre with Medina's outskirts and major onward routes. The fourth element of the scheme covers the development of a parking management system, including a park and ride network.

Funding details have still to be finalised, although it will be developed by the private sector. Ernst & Young is the financial adviser. A team of McCarthy Tetrault and The Law Firm of Mohammed al-Dhabaan is the legal adviser. Canada's IBI Group is the lead technical consultant.

Malaysia's M-Trans is providing trains, engineering and operational services. MRCB, also of Malaysia, is advising on the development of the central station.