Last update: 16 April 2025
Riyadh’s transportation landscape has been revolutionized with the successful launch and full operation of the state-of-the-art Riyadh Metro. This ambitious project is now a tangible reality, significantly easing congestion, connecting communities seamlessly, and offering a modern, efficient, and comfortable way to navigate the capital. Now that the entire network is operational, let’s address the questions that are top of mind for riders.
We are also thrilled to announce the soft launch of a convenient bus service for our residents, from Al Nakhla to SABIC Metro through the DARB App.
When did the Riyadh Metro fully open to the public?
The Riyadh Metro achieved full operational status with the complete opening of all six lines on January 5, 2025. The phased opening began on December 1, 2024, with the initial launch of select lines, culminating in the entire network being available for public use in early January 2025.
How much does the Riyadh Metro cost to ride in 2025?
The Riyadh Metro utilizes a tiered fare system based on the duration of your journey, designed to be affordable and accessible. The current ticket prices are:
- Two-hour journey: SAR 4
- Three-day ticket: SAR 20
- One-week ticket: SAR 40
- 30-day ticket: SAR 140
You can conveniently purchase tickets using the official “darb” mobile application or directly from user-friendly vending machines located at all metro stations. A variety of digital payment options are also readily available.
What are the Riyadh Metro lines and their routes now that the entire network is operational?
The Riyadh Metro network consists of six fully operational lines, each playing a crucial role in connecting different parts of the city:
- Line 1 (Blue Line): Olaya – Al Batha – Al Malaz (North-South Axis) – Opened December 1, 2024
- Line 2 (Red Line): King Abdullah Road (East-West Axis) – Opened December 15, 2024
- Line 3 (Orange Line): King Khalid International Airport – Downtown (West-East Axis) – Opened January 5, 2025
- Line 4 (Yellow Line): King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) – King Khalid International Airport – Opened December 1, 2024
- Line 5 (Green Line): King Abdulaziz Road – Opened December 15, 2024
- Line 6 (Purple Line): Abdulrahman Bin Auf Road – Sheikh Hasan Bin Hussain Bin Ali Road – Opened December 1, 2024
Comprehensive and up-to-date maps detailing the specific stations and interchange points for each line are readily accessible through the Riyadh Public Transport Authority’s official website and the user-friendly “darb” mobile application.
Does the Riyadh Metro currently offer direct connections to the airport?
Yes, it does. The Riyadh Metro Line 3 (Orange Line) and Line 4 (Yellow Line) both provide direct and efficient connections to King Khalid International Airport (KKIA). This has significantly streamlined travel for both residents and visitors, offering a fast and reliable link between the city’s key areas and the airport terminals.
Is the Riyadh Metro fully accessible for passengers with disabilities in 2025?
Accessibility remains a core principle of the Riyadh Metro’s design and operation. All stations and trains are fully equipped to ensure a comfortable and inclusive travel experience for all passengers, including those with disabilities. Key accessibility features include step-free access at all entrances, elevators and escalators for vertical movement, tactile paving to aid visually impaired passengers, and designated wheelchair spaces within the trains.
What are the standard operating hours of the Riyadh Metro in 2025?
The Riyadh Metro currently operates with consistent daily hours to serve the needs of the city’s commuters and travelers. The standard operating hours are from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM (midnight) every day of the week.
How frequent are the Riyadh Metro trains on each line now that the entire system is running?
The Riyadh Metro is committed to providing a high-frequency service to minimize waiting times for passengers across all six lines. During peak commuting hours, you can typically expect trains to arrive every 3 to 5 minutes on the core lines. Even during off-peak times, the headway remains efficient, generally ranging from 5 to 10 minutes, ensuring a reliable and convenient travel experience throughout the day.
Where are all the Riyadh Metro stations strategically located across the city now?
The extensive network of 85 Riyadh Metro stations is strategically located throughout the city to provide optimal coverage and connectivity. Stations are situated near key residential districts, major commercial hubs, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and popular leisure destinations. Furthermore, significant emphasis has been placed on integrating metro stations with existing public transportation networks, including bus stops and designated park-and-ride facilities at numerous locations, facilitating seamless transfers between different modes of transport.
Is ample parking readily available at Riyadh Metro stations now for park-and-ride users?
Yes, recognizing the importance of integrated transportation, numerous Riyadh Metro stations are equipped with well-maintained park-and-ride facilities. These designated parking areas allow commuters to conveniently drive to a metro station, securely park their vehicles, and then seamlessly continue their journey via the metro. The capacity of park-and-ride facilities varies depending on the station’s location and anticipated demand.