Riyadh Metro Routes – Complete Guide to the Capital’s New Transit System

The Riyadh Metro is one of the most ambitious public transport projects in the Middle East. With six modern lines covering all key areas of the city, it is a vital part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative to reduce traffic, improve air quality, and offer sustainable transportation options. In this blog, we’ll explore each of the Riyadh Metro routes, their stations, key features, and why this system is a game-changer for the capital.

Overview of Riyadh Metro

The Riyadh Metro is a fully automated, driverless rapid transit network consisting of 6 lines, 85 stations, and a total length of 176 kilometers. It officially opened in phases during late 2024 and 2025, with all routes of Riyadh metro now operational.

Highlights:

Largest driverless metro system in the world
Connects key zones: airport, universities, business districts, stadiums
Integrated with buses, park-and-ride, and future transit systems

Line 1 (Blue Line)

Route: Al-Olaya Street to Al-Batha via King Abdulaziz Road
Length: 38 km
Stations: 25
Key Stops: STC Tower, King Fahad Road, National Museum, Al-Murabba
Notes: Runs north to south through the city’s commercial core

This line is ideal for commuters heading to government centers, business districts, and major retail zones.

Line 2 (Red Line)

Route: King Saud University to King Fahd Stadium along King Abdullah Road
Length: 25.3 km
Stations: 15
Key Stops: King Saud University, King Fahd Road, Granada Mall
Notes: Mostly elevated; serves education and sports hubs

Great for university students and fans attending stadium events.

Line 3 (Orange Line)

Route: Western Riyadh to Eastern Riyadh (Jeddah Road to Al Khashm Al An)
Length: 40.7 km
Stations: 22
Key Stops: Qasr Al-Hokm, Riyadh Railway Station, Western Station
Notes: Longest line; connects industrial and residential districts

A vital link for daily workers and residential areas across the city.

Line 4 (Yellow Line)

Route: King Khalid International Airport (KKIA) to King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD)
Length: 29.6 km
Stations: 9
Key Stops: Airport Terminals, Imam University, KAFD
Notes: Direct connection between the airport and financial hub

Perfect for travelers, business professionals, and students.

Line 5 (Green Line)

Route: Ministry of Education to King Abdulaziz Historical Center
Length: 12.9 km
Stations: 12
Key Stops: Ministry buildings, King Abdulaziz Historical Center
Notes: Runs underground through the central government district

Focused on administrative services and cultural access.

Line 6 (Purple Line)

Route: Al-Naseem District to King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD)
Length: 29.9 km
Stations: 11
Key Stops: Al-Suwaidi, Al-Shemaysi, KAFD
Notes: Serves residential and mid-income areas

It offers residents faster access to downtown and the financial center.

Major Interchange Stations

Several key interchange stations connect different lines, including:

KAFD Station: Interchange for Lines 4, 5, and 6
STC Station: Connects Line 1 and 2
Qasr Al-Hokm: Transfer point between Line 1 and Line 3
Western Station: Connects metro to the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system

These hubs allow for easy transfers, saving time and increasing efficiency.

Features & Technology

Fully automated driverless trains
Trains run every 3–7 minutes during peak hours
Air-conditioned, Wi-Fi-enabled coaches
Advanced ticketing via the Darb app
Smart integration with buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services

Ticket Prices

Standard Ticket: SAR 4 (valid for 2 hours)
Daily Pass: SAR 15
Monthly Pass: SAR 140
First-Class Pass: SAR 10/ride or SAR 350/month
Free: Children under 6, special needs

Tickets can be purchased via kiosks or online apps like Darb.

Vision 2030 Impact

The Riyadh Metro is not just about convenience—it’s about transforming Riyadh into a global city:

Reduces carbon emissions and traffic congestion
Encourages walking and public transport use
Supports economic zones like KAFD and Diriyah Gate
Enhances urban planning and quality of life

It’s a step toward making Riyadh a top-10 global city by 2030.

Future Expansions

Line 7: Proposed line to connect Qiddiya, Diriyah, and Misk City
Extensions: Planned expansions of Lines 2 and 4
Integration: Bus and BRT lines continue to expand citywide

The metro is designed to grow with Riyadh’s rapid development.

Final Thoughts

The Riyadh Metro is more than just a transportation system—it’s a symbol of the city’s future. Whether you’re a resident, tourist, or investor, the metro provides faster, safer, and more sustainable mobility across the capital.

If you’re planning a visit or commute in Riyadh, be sure to take advantage of this state-of-the-art transit network.