Approach Words: Smart Mobility, Sustainability, Urban Livability
Public Policy Instruments: Infrastructure
The Riyadh Metro is a new development initiative set to redefine urban mobility in Saudi Arabia’s capital, one of the fastest-growing cities in the world1. Featuring fully automated, driverless trains and architecturally striking stations, inspired by local culture2, the project is a key component of the kingdom’s goal to “create a sustainable, accessible, and world-class public transport network”3. Launched in 2014, the metro aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and support economic diversification4. As part of the broader Riyadh Public Transport Project (RPTP), which also includes an integrated bus network, the metro seeks to revolutionize how over 8 million residents navigate the city5.
Spanning 176 kilometers, the Riyadh Metro consists of 6 lines and 85 stations, with Line 3 alone stretching 41 kilometers to connect key eastern and western districts6.
Key features include:
By integrating innovative technologies with traditional Saudi design elements, the metro represents a seamless blend of heritage and innovation.
The project is led by the Riyadh City Royal Commission (RCRC) and involves international firms like Bechtel, Siemens, and Alstom, and the BACS consortium (Bechtel, Almabani, CCC, Siemens), responsible for Lines 1 and 21213. Webuild oversaw Line 3’s construction, which includes 22 stations and 11 park-and-ride facilities14.
Implementation occurred in three phases:
Phase 1: Initial Launch 2024: Commenced with the inauguration of three lines:
Phase 2: Expansion: Two additional lines were launched:
Phase 3: Final Completion 2025: The final line was opened:
As of 2024, Lines 4, 5, and 6 are operational, while Line 3 completed testing in late 20231819. The final phases will fully integrate all lines by 202520.
Once fully operational, the Riyadh Metro is expected to:
Over the few months after the initiation of the project, the metro carried more than 18 million passengers22. Over the operation period, it completed over 162,000 trips and covered about 4.5 million kilometers. The blue line alone accounted for nearly 10 million journeys23. Metro operates at full capacity of up to 3.6 million passengers daily, which makes the metro the backbone of the city’s public transportation24. Additionally, the metro is now operating along with 80 bus routes and 5,860 stops, offering an easy connection throughout the whole city25.
Project Link
Endnotes
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References