In a groundbreaking development for urban transportation in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, is on the cusp of unveiling the world’s longest driverless metro system. Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Saleh Al-Jasser, recently announced that the Riyadh Metro is in its final stages of preparation, with the grand opening anticipated in a few weeks.
“The metro is in its final stages, and the matter is now with the Royal Commission for Riyadh City. You will hear positive news from the commission very soon,” Al-Jasser stated in an interview with Al Arabiya. He emphasized that the metro is undergoing daily testing, describing it as an “exceptional and historic project” for the kingdom.
Meanwhile, a report by Al-Eqtisadiah, citing informed sources, indicates that the Riyadh Metro is most likely to commence operations in early 2025. This monumental project, spanning 176 kilometers with 84 stations, is set to revolutionize the city’s public transport landscape and significantly reduce traffic congestion.
A Comprehensive Network
According to sources, the first phase of the metro project will cover 50 per cent. The Riyadh Metro boasts an impressive network consisting of six main routes:
1. Blue Line: Al-Ulaya > < Al-Batha-Al-Hair (38 km)
2. Red Line: King Abdullah Road (25.3 km)
3. Orange Line: Madinah Road > < Prince Saad bin Abdulrahman I Road (40.7 km)
4. Yellow Line: King Khalid International Airport Road (29.6 km)
5. Green Line: King Abdulaziz Road (12.9 km)
6. Purple Line: Abdulrahman bin Auf Road > < Sheikh Hassan bin Hussein bin Ali Road (30 km)
Discounted ticket packages for car owners
To promote the use of the new metro system, authorities are considering offering discounted ticket packages for car owners. Meetings are expected to be held by the operating company in November to study offering discounted packages for those who own one or less cars or those who own two or more cars to encourage use of public transportation. This initiative aims to incentivize residents to choose public transportation over private vehicles, further reducing traffic congestion and environmental impact.
Economic and Environmental Impact
With an investment of approximately $22.5 billion (84.4 billion riyals), the Riyadh Metro is set to deliver significant benefits to the city: Reduce traffic congestion by up to 30 per cent. Decrease daily car trips by 250,000. Improve air quality and reduce carbon emissions. Enhance overall urban mobility and accessibility. Study and research by transportation engineering experts suggest that that 34 per cent of Riyadh residents will be able to drive to a metro station within 5 minutes, while 74 per cent can reach one within 10 minutes.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Safety
The metro system utilizes state-of-the-art automation technology for its tracks and driverless train operation. This advanced system incorporates sensors, artificial intelligence, and comprehensive communication networks to ensure safe and efficient operations without human intervention.
A Milestone for the Region
Upon its launch, the Riyadh Metro will become the longest metro network in the Middle East and North Africa. This achievement positions Riyadh as a leader in sustainable urban transportation and sets a new standard for cities across the region. As the grand opening approaches, residents and visitors alike eagerly anticipate the transformative impact this world-class metro system will have on Riyadh’s urban landscape and quality of life.