The long-awaited Riyadh Metro is finally set to launch on November 27, marking a significant step toward improving public transportation in Saudi Arabia’s bustling capital.
Phase 1: Partial Opening with Three Routes
The first phase of the metro’s opening will cover three key routes:
- The Al-Orouba to Al-Batha line
- The King Khalid Airport Road line
- The intersection axis of Abdulrahman bin Auf and Sheikh Hassan bin Hussein
These routes will begin operating at full capacity, offering residents and visitors a new, efficient way to navigate the city. The remaining three routes are expected to open by mid-December, completing the network’s initial phase.
Ticket Pricing and Packages
Authorities are gearing up to announce ticket prices and discounted packages for metro passengers in the coming days. The Riyadh Metro operator has been encouraged to set competitive pricing to attract as many commuters as possible. The goal is to reduce traffic congestion in Riyadh by an estimated 20% to 30%, making it a win-win for both commuters and the city’s infrastructure.
An Integrated Transport System
The Riyadh Metro spans an impressive 176 kilometers, with 85 stations across its network. It is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Riyadh Bus Network, which features 24 routes covering 1,083 kilometers and includes 776 stations. Together, these systems aim to revolutionize public transportation in Riyadh, providing a convenient and sustainable alternative to private vehicles.
A Decade in the Making
The Riyadh Metro project has been a monumental undertaking. Contracts were awarded back in 2013 to three global consortia, with the total investment reaching approximately $22.5 billion (SAR 84.4 billion). This ambitious project reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to modernizing its infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
What to Expect
As the Riyadh Metro gears up for its launch, residents can look forward to faster commutes, reduced traffic, and a greener city. With its world-class design and integration with the bus network, the metro is set to become a cornerstone of Riyadh’s public transportation system.
Stay tuned for updates on ticket pricing and other details as the launch date approaches. This is just the beginning of a new era for transportation in Riyadh!
