Route 9: Public Transportation Center to North Vegetable Markets

Why, Where, How

Route 9 is the express connection linking downtown Riyadh's Public Transportation Center hub with the North Vegetable Markets—the city's primary wholesale produce distribution zone serving restaurants, hotels, and retailers. This 18-minute express route bypasses residential areas, appealing to early-morning market traders, restaurant owners sourcing fresh ingredients, and wholesalers managing inventory. Purchase a SAR 4 standard pass via the Darb app or at station machines. The route's 10-minute frequency ensures minimal wait times even during peak market hours (4–6 AM and 4–6 PM).

Journey Experience & Landmarks

Route 9 is a fast, efficient commercial corridor. The 5-stop journey transits through downtown landmarks:

• Public Transportation Center (the hub)
• Al Batha (downtown checkpoint)
• Chamber of Commerce (business hub)
• Faisaliyah Tower (historic 30-story landmark and icon of Riyadh's skyline)
• Kingdom Tower (another central business high-rise)
• Uwais Markets (mid-tier wholesale zone)
• Finally North Vegetable Markets

The total journey averages just 18 minutes, making it Riyadh's quickest transit route. The route's character transforms mid-journey from urban commercial (downtown) to wholesale/industrial (final stretch). Visual cue: the Faisaliyah Tower's distinctive globe-topped silhouette marks the journey's midpoint. Early morning travel (4–6 AM) is predictably packed with market traders; late afternoon (4–6 PM) sees warehouse workers and retail restockers.

The "Local Scoop"

Route 9 buses maintain full air-conditioning, essential for workers carrying produce and spending long hours in the markets' heat. The route serves a working-class, ethnically diverse demographic (South Asian, Filipino, and Arab traders dominate). Seating is pragmatic rather than formal; passengers frequently stand with merchandise during peak hours. During Ramadan, many market traders fast despite the physical demands; non-fasting travelers should avoid eating in their presence out of respect. The route is extremely punctual and fast—a primary reason traders depend on it. Early-morning travel (before 6 AM) is the optimal time for comfortable seating, though the route is always functional and reliable. The vegetables markets operate year-round, including weekends and holidays.

Integration & Comparisons

Route 9 begins at the Public Transportation Center, Riyadh's main transit hub, enabling connections to all other bus routes (7, 8, 10, 16, 17) and direct Riyadh Metro access. The route's endpoint at North Vegetable Markets makes it indispensable for food-service businesses. A taxi from Public Transportation Center to North Vegetable Markets costs 40–60 SAR and takes 25–35 minutes depending on traffic and time of day; Route 9 at SAR 4 saves 93% while guaranteeing an 18-minute journey. For traders making daily market runs, a 7-day pass (SAR 40) provides unlimited commuting access. Use the Darb app for live tracking and trip planning, especially helpful for timing wholesale purchasing rounds.