Riyadh Metro’s Orange Line is operational
Part of a 6-line network
The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) has confirmed the completion of the phased rollout of the Riyadh Metro, with the Orange Line officially commencing operations on January 5, 2025.
The launch of the metro system marks a significant achievement in the development of Saudi Arabia’s public transport network. The Orange Line now connects Riyadh’s eastern and western parts, spanning a 41-kilometre route from Jeddah Road in the west to the Second Eastern Ring Road near the Khashm Al Aan area in the east.
The Orange Line officially launched on January 5 and became operational, serving passengers at five stations: Jeddah Road, Tuwaiq, Douh, Harun Al-Rashid Road, and Al-Naseem. Notably, Al-Naseem Station also serves as a key transfer point, connecting the Orange Line with the Purple Line, enhancing the network’s integration and improving connectivity across the capital.
The introduction of the Orange Line concludes the phased operational plan for the Riyadh Metro, which began with the opening of the Blue, Yellow, and Purple Lines on December 1, 2024.
This was followed by the Red and Green Lines launch on December 15, 2024, further expanding the network. With the addition of the Orange Line, the Riyadh Metro is fully operational and has achieved a significant milestone in transforming the city’s urban transport infrastructure.
85 stations
The Riyadh Metro network consists of six lines that span 176 kilometres and include 85 stations. The entire metro system is operational, making it the most extensive in the Middle East and the world’s most extended driverless train network.
Other states in the GCC region that operate driverless metro networks include Dubai and Doha.
The project, part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, aims to alleviate traffic congestion, reduce air pollution, and improve urban mobility in Riyadh, which has seen rapid growth in recent years.
The completion of the Riyadh Metro highlights the city’s efforts to modernise its infrastructure and provide efficient, sustainable public transport solutions to its growing population. The metro network now offers seamless travel across the city, linking residential, commercial, and cultural hubs.
The system is designed to accommodate a wide range of passengers, with services running daily from 6 a.m. to midnight. The metro also supports flexible digital ticketing through the Darb app, self-service kiosks, and ticket offices, allowing passengers to plan their journeys and make payments easily. Payment options include credit cards, bank transfers, and mobile devices.
Blue Line
In addition to launching the Orange Line, the RCRC introduced three new stations along the Blue Line, which runs from Olaya Street to Batha. The newly operational stations—Al Morooj, Bank Al Bilad, and King Fahd Library—further enhance the metro network’s coverage and provide additional options for commuters.
The Riyadh Metro’s comprehensive and expanding network is seen as a game-changer for the city. It provides a modern, efficient, environmentally friendly transport system that aligns with Saudi Arabis Vision 2030 goals. By reducing reliance on private vehicles, the metro helps to ease congestion on Riyadh’s roads, making the city more liveable and accessible for both residents and visitors.
The metro system’s affordable fare structure further encourages its use. In the introductory phase, regular cabin fares are SAR 4 for a 2-hour pass, SAR 20 for a 3-day pass, SAR 40 for a 7-day pass, and SAR 140 for a 30-day pass. These affordable options provide flexibility for commuters, ensuring that the Riyadh Metro is accessible to a wide range of passengers.
As Riyadh continues its rapid expansion, the completion of the metro system positions the city as a leader in sustainable urban mobility. It offers an efficient public transport alternative to meet the needs of its growing population. With the Riyadh Metro fully operational, residents and visitors alike can expect faster, more convenient travel across the city, paving the way for a more connected and dynamic capital.
Hero image: The Riyadh Metro’s Orange Line began operations on January 5, 2025. Credit: RCRC
