In a move aimed at transforming urban transport, King Salman has officially inaugurated the Riyadh Metro, marking a pivotal moment in Saudi Arabia’s attempt to develop world-class infrastructure. The Riyadh Metro project, a key component of Saudi Vision 2030, showcases the Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing public transport with cutting-edge design and technology.
The metro network will consist of six lines, stretching over an impressive 176 kilometers, with 85 stations, including four major hubs. This new system promises to redefine mobility in Riyadh, reducing traffic congestion and providing a fast, efficient alternative for commuters.
Line Details
The Riyadh Metro is set to open in phases, with the first two lines, the Yellow Line (Line 4) and Purple Line (Line 6), scheduled to begin operations on December 1, 2024. These lines will span 29.6 kilometers and 30 kilometers respectively, featuring 8 and 14 stations.
On December 15, 2024, the Blue Line (Line 1), Red Line (Line 2), and Green Line (Line 5) will be launched. These three lines will cover a combined distance of 76.2 kilometers, with a total of 45 stations, bringing greater connectivity to the city.
The final phase of the project will see the Orange Line (Line 3) opening on January 5, 2025, stretching 40.7 kilometers and connecting 20 stations.
Key Features of the Riyadh Metro Project
- 190 trains with advanced designs, offering flexible configurations of 2-car and 4-car trains.
- 29 interchange stations, allowing passengers to transfer seamlessly between different lines.
- One of the world’s longest fully automated metro systems, setting a new global standard for urban transport.
Integration with the Riyadh Bus Network
The Riyadh Metro will be integrated with the city’s extensive bus network, further enhancing the public transport experience. With more than 80 bus routes and 2,000 stations across Riyadh, the metro’s connectivity to bus routes ensures that residents can easily transfer between modes of transport.
The Riyadh Bus App will provide real-time route information, schedules, and digital payment options, ensuring a smooth and convenient travel experience for all.
A Milestone for Saudi Vision 2030
The Riyadh Metro is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a blueprint for the country’s future that aims to modernize its infrastructure and position Riyadh as a global model for sustainable urban living. With this ambitious metro project, Riyadh is not only improving the quality of life for its residents but also demonstrating its commitment to developing innovative, world-class infrastructure solutions.
The Riyadh Metro, along with the integrated bus network, represents a monumental step towards making Riyadh a more accessible, efficient, and environmentally sustainable city.
