Saudi Arabia’s autonomous Riyadh Metro launches first phase

Transit system expected to reduce traffic and boost value of commercial and residential real estate

The first phase of the Riyadh Metro will cater for up to 1.2 million passengers a day. Photo: Riyadh Metro

Saudi Arabia has begun operations of the Riyadh Metro, which is expected to help reduce traffic and boost the value of commercial and residential real estate.

The first phase of the driverless transport system, which will cater for up to 1.2 million passengers a day, marks a “key milestone” in the goal to “transform urban mobility and enhance quality of life”, the Royal Commission for Riyadh City said on Wednesday. The metro was inaugurated by Saudi Arabia's King Salman.

Once the system is fully operational, the network will serve twice that number of passengers, comprising six lines spanning 85 stations across 176km, connecting key areas, including business hubs and cultural landmarks.

"Riyadh City is reaping the benefits of this project that will reshape the capital’s image and redefine mobility for its residents and visitors," said Ibrahim bin Mohammed, Minister of State and chief executive of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City.

The Riyadh Metro's six lines will operate in phases, beginning with the blue, yellow and purple lines, combining for more than 104km and which are all expected to be operational by December 1, the commission said.

“In line with Vision 2030, the Riyadh Metro enhances the public transportation system and contributes significantly to the development of the services and logistics sector, confirming the city’s commitment to smart and sustainable urban development,” it added.

Saudi Arabia, the Arab world's biggest economy, continues to introduce mega projects to support its ambitious goals as it prepares for the economy of the future, underpinned by massive infrastructure backed by technology.

The Riyadh Metro transport network aims to keep up with Riyadh's growing population, which is expected to reach 15 to 20 million by 2030, from 7.5 million last year. It will also include 80 bus routes and pass through 2,860 stops with 842 buses.

It will cover most of the densely populated areas, public centres, and the educational, commercial and medical institutions, the project's website reads.

It will also be connected to King Khalid International Airport and King Abdullah Financial District, the city's main universities, downtown Riyadh and the public transport centre.

The Riyadh Metro is also expected to provide a "major boost" to the kingdom's economy: it has so far gathered a workforce of more than 65,000 during the construction phase and raised economic activity across the country, the commission said.

The project was able to attract more than 2,000 Saudi employees during the construction phase, with Saudi representation within operating companies ranging from 50 per cent to 70 per cent, it added.

"The Metro will improve connectivity ... and offer quick and seamless travel options that will alleviate traffic congestion and shorten travel times. This improvement in transport infrastructure will boost efficiency and address daily mobility challenges, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for residents," the commission said.

In addition, the Riyadh Metro will contribute to the kingdom's sustainability agenda, providing residents with a clean alternative to traditional vehicles, helping reduce carbon emissions and high temperatures in Riyadh, the commission said.