How to Use the Riyadh Bus Network: Routes, Maps, and BRT Guide

How to Use the Riyadh Bus Network: Routes & Maps

The Riyadh Bus Network is a vital component of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) public transport project, designed to work in perfect harmony with the Riyadh Metro system. With over 80 routes and 2,860 bus stops operational as of December 2025, the network ensures that every corner of the capital—from historic Al Batha to the modern King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD)—is accessible. Whether you are navigating the dedicated riyadh bus dedicated lane system or catching a local community bus, this guide breaks down the routes, schedules, and smart features of the service.

Share with FnF!

Three Categories of Riyadh Bus Routes

To serve different travel needs, the bus network is divided into three distinct service types.

1. Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Corridors

The backbone of the system consists of three dedicated BRT corridors spanning 160 km. These buses operate on separated lanes, bypassing regular traffic congestion.

• Frequency: Every 10 minutes (consistent).
• Features: Level boarding platforms, pre-paid ticketing, and traffic signal priority.
• Best For: Long-distance travel across the city with speed comparable to the metro.

2. Community Lines (Local Connectivity)

Connecting residential districts to major hubs, these riyadh bus routes are the most common way to travel within neighborhoods.

• Riyadh Bus Route 7: Al Batha $\rightarrow$ King Khalid University Hospital.
  • Key Stops: Ministry of Foreign Affairs, King Khalid Grand Mosque.
  • Frequency: Every 10 minutes.
• Riyadh Bus Route 8: Al Batha $\rightarrow$ KAFD.
  • Key Stops: Commercial centers and the financial district.
• Riyadh Bus Route 9: Public Transportation Center $\rightarrow$ Al Aziziyah Market.
  • Function: Connects the transport hub to vegetable markets.
• Riyadh Bus Route 10: Metro City Bus route connecting key districts.

3. Feeder Bus Lines

These short-distance routes are specifically designed for first-and-last-mile connectivity, shuttling passengers from their homes directly to the nearest metro station.

• Network: 58 dedicated lines serving all 85 metro stations.
• Strategy: Your ticket covers both the feeder bus and the subsequent metro journey.

Operating Hours and Frequency

The network operates extensively to support daily life in the capital.

Frequency:

• Peak Hours (6:00-9:30 AM, 3:00-7:00 PM): Every 10–15 minutes.
• Off-Peak: Every 15–20 minutes.

Ticket Prices and Unified System

One of the system's biggest advantages is integrated ticketing. A single pass works for both the bus and the Riyadh Metro.

Payment Methods:

• Darb Mobile App: Digital tickets on your phone.
• Contactless Cards: Reloadable smart cards.
• Vending Machines: Available at riyadh bus stops and Riyadh Metro stations.

How to Use the Service: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Download the Darb App: Create an account to plan your journey and buy digital tickets.
2. Locate Your Stop: Use the app to find the nearest riyadh bus stops. There are over 2,800 stops citywide, typically every 300–500 meters.
3. Boarding: Arrive 2-3 minutes early. Board through the front door and scan your ticket or app QR code.
4. During the Ride: Screens display upcoming stops in Arabic and English. Free WiFi is often available on major routes.
5. Transfers: If you transfer to the metro within your pass validity period (e.g., 2 hours), you do not need to pay again.

Key Transfer Hubs

• Al Batha Station: The central hub for historic downtown, connecting Routes 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, and 9.
• Western Station: A massive interchange for the Orange Line metro and BRT services.
• KAFD Station: Connects bus Route 8 with three metro lines (Blue, Yellow, Purple).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a map for Riyadh bus route 9?

Yes, route maps are available on the Darb App and displayed at major bus shelters. Route 9 connects the Public Transportation Center to Al Aziziyah.

Can I pay cash on the bus?

It is highly recommended to use the Darb App or a smart card. Cash handling may be limited or phased out on certain routes to ensure speed.

Do buses run on Friday mornings?

Yes, service starts at 5:00 AM on Fridays, just like weekdays, but runs one hour later into the night (until 1:00 AM).

Are there dedicated lanes for buses?

Yes, the BRT system uses riyadh bus dedicated lane infrastructure on major corridors, physically separated from regular traffic to guarantee 10-minute frequencies.

---

Your Next Commute Step

Download the Darb App now and check the "Journey Planner." If you live near Al Batha, try taking Route 8 to KAFD tomorrow—it’s a direct, stress-free link to the financial district that bypasses peak traffic.