Riyadh Metro.. King Salman inaugurated the world’s largest project built simultaneously the economy
- On November 27, 2024, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia opened the Riyadh Metro project.
- The Riyadh Metro is the largest metro system built at once in the world.
- It aims to reduce reliance on private cars, boost the local economy, protect the environment, and enhance the living standards of residents.
On November 27, 2024, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia opened the Riyadh Metro project. This metro system is a key part of the “Public Transport Network in Riyadh” and aims to improve transport in the capital.
The Riyadh Metro is the largest metro system built at once in the world. The first phase started today, covering three of the six planned tracks. The entire network will measure 176 kilometers and include 84 stations. It connects important locations like King Khalid International Airport, King Abdullah Financial Center, major universities, and public transport hubs.
The project cost $22.5 billion. It aims to reduce reliance on private cars, boost the local economy, protect the environment, and enhance the living standards of residents. The metro will help ease traffic and improve connectivity across the city.
Train and bus services are linked in a network with an expected capacity of 1.7 million passengers daily. The six tracks are designed to serve high-density areas in the capital:
- Blue Line: Olaya-Batha-Hyor, 38 km
- Red Line: King Abdullah Road, 25.3 km
- Orange Line: Madina Road – Prince Saad Bin Abdul Rahman I Road, 40.7 km
- Yellow Line: King Khalid International Airport Road, 29.6 km
- Green Line: King Abdulaziz Road, 12.9 km
- Purple Line: Abdul Rahman Bin Auf Road – Sheikh Hassan Bin Hussain Bin Ali Road, 30 km
All stations are air-conditioned and provide internet access. Passengers will also find shops and parking at some locations. The metro can carry 1.16 million passengers each day and trains can reach speeds of 80 kilometers per hour. This project will reduce about 2 million daily car trips.
The Riyadh Metro project received approval in 2017, following earlier plans in 2012 and an agreement with three global consortia in 2013. Various challenges delayed the project, including the COVID-19 pandemic. The metro is expected to decrease pollution in Riyadh by 36% and lower road maintenance costs.
Ticket prices are as follows:
- Two-hour ticket: 4 riyals
- Three-day ticket: 20 riyals
- Seven-day ticket: 40 riyals
- Thirty-day ticket: 140 riyals
- Free for children under 6
- Tickets are valid for bus travel
Riyadh Metro tickets can be purchased electronically using the “Darb” card or the Riyadh Bus app.