Riyadh Metro

Riyadh Metro is the backbone of Saudi Arabia’s future-ready transport system. It’s fast, modern, and built for everyone. modern, and built for everyone. This massive public project is a key part of Vision 2030, aiming to cut traffic, improve air quality, and support smart city living. Riyadh is growing fast, and the metro helps it grow cleaner and smarter.

What Is Riyadh Metro?

Riyadh Metro is the largest public transport project in Saudi Arabia. It’s built to move millions — fast and clean. This system is the core of the King Abdulaziz Public Transport Project (KAPT). Its purpose? Cut traffic, lower emissions, and connect the capital like never before.

Approved in 2012, construction began in 2014. Today, it stands as one of the most advanced metro networks in the world.

Who’s Behind the Project?

The project is managed by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC). They’re leading the city’s transformation under Vision 2030.

Key builders include:

BACS Consortium (Bechtel, Almabani, CCC, Siemens)
FAST Consortium (FCC, Samsung, Strukton, Freyssinet)
ANM Consortium (Ansaldo STS, Bombardier, Larsen & Toubro)

Each group built different lines using cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly designs.

Riyadh Metro Map 2025

The Riyadh Metro Map 2025 shows how the city connects through six powerful lines. Each color marks a different route across key districts, business zones, and neighborhoods.

You can ride from King Khalid Airport to King Abdullah Financial District without switching vehicles. That’s the power of a well-planned system.

Key Highlights:

6 color-coded lines
Over 176 km of total track
85+ stations across Riyadh
Interchanges at major hubs like KAFD
King Abdulaziz Road

View full details for each line here:

Line 1 – Blue Line (Olaya to Batha)
Line 2 – Red Line (King Abdullah Road)
Line 3 – Orange Line (Western Riyadh)
Line 4 – Yellow Line (Airport Express)
Line 5 – Green Line (Ministries Area)
Line 6 – Purple Line (East Riyadh)

Riyadh Metro Lines Overview

Riyadh Metro consists of six lines, each with its own route, stations, and service areas. The Riyadh Metro connects people, jobs, schools, and culture — without the traffic jam.
It’s not just a train. It’s a shift toward a better life. Let’s take a closer look at each.

Line 1 – Blue Line

Length: 38 km
Stations: 26
Key Areas Served: Olaya, Batha, King Fahd Road, Riyadh City Center

Notable Stations:
- King Khalid International Airport
- King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD)
- Olaya District

Description: Connects the western part of Riyadh to its central business district. Fast, direct access to the airport.

Line 2 – Red Line

Length: 25 km
Stations: 22
Key Areas Served: Northern Riyadh, King Abdullah Road, Diplomatic Quarter

Notable Stations:
- King Saud University
- Olaya District
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Description: This line runs north-south, connecting key governmental and educational areas.

Line 3 – Orange Line

Length: 30 km
Stations: 23
Key Areas Served: Western Riyadh, Mekkah Street, Al Wadi

Notable Stations:
- King Abdulaziz Road
- Western Riyadh Business Center
- Riyadh Expo Center

Description: Provides access to the western part of the city, including major commercial and exhibition centers.

Line 4 – Yellow Line

Length: 27 km
Stations: 21
Key Areas Served: Eastern Riyadh, King Abdulaziz Road, Al-Malaz

Notable Stations:
- Riyadh Airbase
- Riyadh International Exhibition Center
- King Abdulaziz Road

Description: Serves the eastern areas, with quick access to Riyadh’s central exhibition and cultural centers.

Line 5 – Green Line

Length: 22 km
Stations: 18
Key Areas Served: Southern Riyadh, Ministry District, Central Riyadh

Notable Stations:
- Ministries Complex
- Al Hada
- King Saud University

Description: A key route for government employees and students, serving educational institutions and ministry offices.

Line 6 – Purple Line

Length: 27 km
Stations: 20
Key Areas Served: Eastern Riyadh, Diplomatic Quarter, Housing Districts

Notable Stations:
- Diplomatic Quarter
- Housing Districts
- King Saud University

Description: This line connects the east of Riyadh with the Diplomatic Quarter and residential areas.

Major Stations and Interchange Hubs

The Riyadh Metro features several major stations and interchange hubs, making it easy to navigate the city. These hubs serve as key transfer points between metro lines and other modes of transportation.

They connect business districts, residential areas, and cultural landmarks for smoother daily commutes. With smart design and clear signage, passengers can switch lines or exit to nearby buses and taxis effortlessly.

King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD)

Location: Central Riyadh
Key Features: Business hub, commercial offices, luxury hotels
Importance: Major interchange for Line 1 (Blue Line) and Line 3 (Orange Line)

Purpose: Connecting Riyadh’s financial center with residential and business districts.

King Khalid International Airport

Location: Northern Riyadh
Key Features: International airport, cargo, and passenger terminals
Importance: Direct connection via Line 1 (Blue Line)

Purpose: Enhances accessibility for travelers, with seamless transfer from the airport to major city centers.

Ministry of Education

Location: Central Riyadh
Key Features: Government offices, educational institutions
Importance: Interchange for Line 4 (Yellow Line)

Purpose: Facilitates access for employees and visitors, connecting key government facilities with residential areas.

National Museum

Location: Central Riyadh
Key Features: National heritage museum, cultural exhibits
Importance: Line 3 (Orange Line) provides easy access to the museum

Purpose: A cultural stop for tourists and locals, boosting Riyadh’s tourism industry.

Diriyah Connection (Future)

Location: Northwest of Riyadh
Key Features: UNESCO World Heritage site, historical district
Importance: Future extension to Line 3 (Orange Line)

Purpose: Connects the historic Diriyah area to the metro network, enhancing accessibility.

Riyadh Metro Ticket Prices 2025

Riyadh Metro offers affordable travel options with two classes of service: Standard and First-Class. There are also special discounts for students, seniors, and people with disabilities.

Discount Options:
Student Pass: 50% discount on all tickets
Senior Citizens (60+): 50% discount
Disabled Pass: Free for individuals with disabilities (SAR 0)

Ticket Price Breakdown

Ticket Type	Standard Class Price	First-Class Price
Single Journey	SAR 3	SAR 6
Day Pass	SAR 15	SAR 30
Monthly Pass	SAR 60	SAR 120
Student/Disabled/Senior	SAR 2 (Single)	SAR 4 (Single)

How to Buy a Ticket

You can buy a ticket at the station using ticket machines or purchase it via the Darb app. Simply download the app, create an account, and add funds to your balance. You can also buy QR cards for seamless entry and exit.

Buy at station: Use automated kiosks for a quick purchase.
Darb app: Recharge via the app and scan your QR code for travel.

Operating Hours and Frequency

The Riyadh Metro operates with different schedules on weekdays and weekends, along with varying train frequencies depending on the time of day. Whether you’re commuting during peak hours or traveling on a weekend, there’s always a convenient option for you.

Weekday vs Weekend Hours

Weekdays (Sunday – Thursday):
- Operating Hours: 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Frequency:
  - Peak Hours (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM): Trains every 5 minutes
  - Off-Peak Hours: Trains every 10 minutes
Weekends (Friday & Saturday):
- Operating Hours: 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Frequency:
  - Peak Hours (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM): Trains every 7 minutes
  - Off-Peak Hours: Trains every 15 minutes

Peak vs Off-Peak Frequency

Rush Hour (Peak): During peak commuting times, trains run more frequently to accommodate higher passenger volumes. For example:
- Trains every 5 minutes during the morning rush hour (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM)
- Trains every 7 minutes in the evening (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Off-Peak Hours: Between rush hours, trains run less frequently but are still efficient for everyday commuters:
- Trains every 10 minutes during off-peak hours on weekdays.
- Trains every 15 minutes during weekends.

Facilities & Passenger Experience

Riyadh Metro is designed with the highest standards of comfort, safety, and accessibility in mind. The goal is to provide a seamless travel experience for all passengers, regardless of age or ability.

Comfort & Convenience

Air Conditioning: All trains and stations are fully air-conditioned, ensuring a cool and comfortable ride even in Riyadh’s hot climate.
Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available at major stations, making it easier to stay connected while you travel.
Safety Features: The metro is equipped with CCTV cameras for security at all stations and on trains.
Elevators & Escalators: Each station has elevators and escalators, ensuring easy access for everyone, including people with disabilities, parents with strollers, and the elderly.

Family-Friendly & Accessible Design

Spacious Interiors: Trains are designed with wider aisles and seating arrangements that cater to families, making it comfortable for parents and children.
Dedicated Family Zones: Special seating areas are designated for families and passengers with young children.
Wheelchair Accessibility: Each station has accessible platforms and facilities for people with disabilities, ensuring a barrier-free experience.

Sustainability & Green Stations

LEED-Certified Stations: Riyadh Metro boasts several LEED-certified green stations, designed with energy-efficient features and sustainable materials. These eco-friendly designs help reduce the metro’s environmental impact.
Examples of Green Stations:
King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD)
King Khalid Airport Station

Mobile App: Darb

The Riyadh Metro app, known as Darb, is your one-stop solution for everything related to Riyadh Metro travel. From purchasing tickets to checking live updates and accessing metro maps, the app simplifies your travel experience.

How to Use the Darb App

Ticketing:
Buy your tickets directly through the Darb app. Simply add funds to your account, choose your ticket type, and use the app to scan your QR code at the station for entry and exit.
Live Updates:
Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and track maintenance. The app notifies you of any operational changes, helping you plan your journey.
Maps & Routes:
Access the complete Riyadh Metro map on the app. Plan your route, view station details, and track your progress in real time.
Account Management: Create an account for easy access to ticket history, payment methods, and top-ups.

Download the Riyadh Metro Darb App

The Darb app is available for both Android and iOS users, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a seamless travel experience.

Download on Google Play
Download on the App Store

With the Riyadh Metro Darb app, commuting becomes easier, faster, and more convenient. Stay connected and in control of your journey with just a few taps.

Future Plans: Line 7 and Expansion

Riyadh Metro is constantly evolving, with future expansions designed to enhance connectivity and support the city’s growth. One of the most exciting developments is Line 7, a key part of Riyadh’s ambitious Vision 2030 and smart city initiatives.

Line 7: Route, Length, and Expected Completion

Route: Line 7 will connect the northern and southern parts of Riyadh, covering key residential and commercial districts, including Riyadh University, Al-Faisaliah Tower, and Al-Aziziyah.
Length: Approximately 35 km, making it one of the longest lines in the Riyadh Metro network.
Expected Completion: The line is expected to be operational by 2027, further expanding the metro’s reach and improving urban mobility.

Integration with Vision 2030 and Smart City Ambitions

Line 7 is a critical component of Riyadh’s Vision 2030 plans, which aim to transform the city into a modern, sustainable, and smart urban hub. By expanding the metro network, the city is reducing traffic congestion, lowering carbon emissions, and improving the quality of life for residents.

Sustainability: Line 7 will feature LEED-certified stations and green technologies, contributing to Riyadh’s efforts in creating a low-carbon footprint.
Smart City: Integration with advanced technologies such as AI-powered traffic management, smart ticketing systems, and data-driven operations will make Riyadh Metro a key part of the city’s smart city infrastructure.

Intermodal Connectivity (Buses & Ride-Sharing)

The future of Riyadh Metro isn’t just about trains; it’s about creating a seamless, integrated transportation network. Line 7 will be designed for easy intermodal connectivity, allowing passengers to transition between different forms of transport smoothly.

Buses: Metro stations will be connected to Riyadh’s expanding bus network, enabling passengers to quickly transfer between the metro and buses.
Ride-Sharing: Partnerships with ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem will further enhance the convenience of getting to and from metro stations.

Riyadh Metro vs Other Transit Options

Riyadh Metro is quickly becoming the preferred choice for urban commuters, offering distinct advantages over traditional transportation options like taxis, buses, and private vehicles.

Riyadh Metro vs Taxis
Cost:
Metro: Significantly cheaper, with fares starting from SAR 3.
Taxis: Higher fares, especially during peak hours, with an average starting fare of SAR 12.
Convenience:
Metro: Fast and predictable, with stations located across key areas, reducing wait times.
Taxis: Can be slow during traffic or hard to find during peak hours.
Environmental Impact:
Metro: Eco-friendly, contributing to Riyadh’s sustainability goals by reducing road congestion and emissions.
Taxis: Higher emissions per passenger compared to metro, contributing to pollution.

Riyadh Metro vs Buses
Cost:
Metro: Comparable to buses but offers faster and more reliable service.
Buses: Lower cost, with single fares around SAR 2, but routes may take longer due to traffic.
Time:
Metro: Efficient and on-time, with trains running every 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the time of day.
Buses: More prone to delays due to traffic congestion, with wait times varying significantly.
Environmental Impact:
Metro: Lower emissions, particularly with future green station designs and sustainable technologies.
Buses: Emissions depend on fuel type, but electric buses can be more eco-friendly.

Riyadh Metro vs Private Vehicles
Cost:
Metro: Very cost-effective, especially compared to the expenses of owning a private vehicle (fuel, maintenance, parking).
Private Vehicles: High ongoing costs (fuel, maintenance, insurance) and expensive parking fees in central areas.
Time:
Metro: Avoids traffic congestion with dedicated tracks, offering a faster journey.
Private Vehicles: Traffic jams can result in unpredictable commute times, especially during peak hours.
Environmental Impact:
Metro: Significant reduction in carbon emissions, supporting Vision 2030‘s sustainability goals.
Private Vehicles: Contributes to traffic congestion and air pollution, especially during peak hours.

FAQS

1. Comfort & Is Riyadh Metro operational?

Yes, Riyadh Metro is operational, with the first phase launched in 2023. The metro serves various parts of Riyadh, and further expansions are scheduled for completion in 2027.

2. Can tourists use Riyadh Metro?

Absolutely! Tourists can easily use Riyadh Metro. The system is designed for accessibility, with clear signage in multiple languages and simple ticketing options. You can buy tickets via the Darb app or at stations.

3. What is the best line for reaching KAFD?

The most convenient line for reaching the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) is Line 5 (Green Line). This line connects directly to KAFD and provides easy access to other major destinations in Riyadh.

Conclusion

The Riyadh Metro offers incredible benefits for residents, businesses, and tourists alike. By providing a fast, affordable, and eco-friendly way to navigate the city, it supports Riyadh’s growth as a modern, sustainable metropolis.

For Residents: The metro saves time, reduces travel costs, and minimizes daily commute stress, all while contributing to a cleaner environment.
For Businesses: It boosts efficiency by improving transportation access and supporting economic growth, particularly in key commercial areas.
For Tourists: Visitors can easily explore Riyadh with reliable metro service, including access to major attractions such as King Khalid Airport, Diriyah, and the National Museum.