Saudi Arabia’s capital is gearing up for the partial launch of the Riyadh Metro, set to revolutionise urban mobility in the city. The first phase, scheduled to open on Wednesday, November 27, will feature operations on three of the six planned lines, with the remaining lines expected to follow by mid-December.
The $22.5 billion (SR84.4 billion) project, approved in 2012, aims to reduce car dependency, ease traffic congestion, and align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by modernising infrastructure and positioning Riyadh as a global commercial hub.
Initially, the metro will connect key routes, including Al Orouba to Batha, King Khalid International Airport Road, and the intersection of Abdulrahman Bin Auf Street with Sheikh Hassan Bin Hussein Street. By mid-December, additional lines covering King Abdullah Road, Al Madina, and King Abdulaziz Road will enhance capacity and coverage.
Sustainability is a cornerstone of the project. Solar panels installed at stations and depots will generate 20% of the energy required for critical systems, while energy-efficient trains equipped with regenerative braking technology will minimise power consumption.