Complete Guide to Riyadh Metro: Lines 1-6, Stations, and Fares
Navigating Riyadh just got easier. From the airport-connecting Yellow Line to the bustling Blue Line, here is everything you need to know about the 6 lines, 85 stations, and tickets for the Riyadh Metro.
By Rifat Hossain
Complete Guide to Riyadh Metro: Lines 1-6 & Key Stations
The Riyadh Metro system is a transformative infrastructure achievement that reshapes how residents and visitors navigate the Saudi capital. Spanning 176 kilometers with 85 stations, this fully automated network connects the city's residential, commercial, and educational districts, offering a cool, traffic-free alternative to driving. Whether you are commuting to the KAFD station for business or heading to the Western station for transit connections, understanding the six color-coded lines is essential for a smooth journey.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of Riyadh Metro lines, operating hours, ticket prices, and the key interchange hubs that tie the network together.
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Overview of the Riyadh Metro System
The Riyadh Metro is Saudi Arabia's flagship mass rapid transit project, consisting of six automated lines that serve 85 stations across the capital. Inaugurated by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in November 2024, the system opened in phases, with the Blue, Yellow, and Purple lines commencing operations on December 1, 2024, followed by the Red and Green lines mid-month, and the Orange Line completing the network on January 5, 2025.
The system is designed to handle the city's extreme climate, featuring fully air-conditioned stations and carriages, ensuring passenger comfort year-round.
Operating Hours and Service Schedule
Commuters can rely on the metro for early morning trips and late-night returns. The standard schedule is designed to accommodate students and employees starting their day early.
| Days | Operating Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monday - Thursday | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Standard weekday hours |
| Friday | 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM | Extended weekend service |
| Saturday - Sunday | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Standard weekend hours |
Ramadan Schedule (Special Hours) During the Holy Month of Ramadan, the metro extends its service significantly to accommodate evening prayers and Suhoor activities.
- Sunday - Thursday: 8:15 AM – 2:59 AM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 2:59 AM
- Saturday: 10:01 AM – 2:59 AM
Note: Regular hours resume immediately after Eid al-Fitr.
Ticket Prices and Fare System
The Riyadh Metro utilizes a flexible fare system accessible via the Darb Mobile App, vending machines, or contactless smart cards.
Standard vs. First Class Fares
Travelers can choose between Standard Class for affordability or First Class for premium seating and amenities.
| Ticket Type | Standard Price (SAR) | First Class Price (SAR) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-hour Pass | 4 | 10 | Unlimited travel for 2 hours |
| 3-day Pass | 20 | 50 | 3 consecutive days |
| 7-day Pass | 40 | 100 | 7 consecutive days |
| 30-day Pass | 140 | 350 | 30 consecutive days |
Discounts: Reduced fares are available for students, seniors (60+), and children aged 5-12. Children under 5 travel for free.
Detailed Breakdown of Riyadh Metro Lines
Line 1: The Blue Line (North-South Artery)
The Riyadh Metro Blue Line serves as the city's primary vertical axis, running underground and elevated along the historic Al-Olaya and Al-Batha streets.
- Route: Al-Olaya – Ad Dar Al Baida
- Length: 38 km (25 Stations)
- Key Hubs: Olaya Station (Business District), KAFD Station (Financial Hub), and the National Museum.
- Connections: Interchanges with Lines 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, making it the most connected line in the network.
Line 2: The Red Line (East-West Axis)
The Riyadh Metro Red Line runs along King Abdullah Road, connecting major educational and sports landmarks.
- Route: King Saud University – King Fahad Stadium
- Length: 25.3 km (15 Stations)
- Key Hubs: King Saud University (Eastern Terminus) and King Fahad Stadium (Western Terminus).
- Strategic Use: Ideal for students and sports fans attending events.
Line 3: The Orange Line (The Longest Route)
As the longest line in the system, the Orange Line connects the western and eastern suburbs along Al-Madinah Al Munawwarah Road.
- Route: Jeddah Road – Khashm Al An
- Length: 40.7 km (22 Stations)
- Key Hubs: Western Station (Major transit hub), Qasr Al Hokm (Historic Downtown), and the Railway Station (connection to Dammam train).
- Feature: This line passes through significant residential and industrial zones, including the First Industrial City.
Line 4: The Yellow Line (Airport Connection)
The Riyadh Metro Yellow Line is critical for travelers, providing a direct link between the financial district and the airport.
- Route: KAFD – King Khalid International Airport
- Length: 29.6 km (10 Stations)
- Key Hubs: King Khalid International Airport (Terminals 1-5) and Princess Nourah University.
- Travel Tip: This line is the fastest way to reach the airport from downtown, bypassing road traffic.
Line 5: The Green Line (Government Corridor)
The Green Line runs underground along King Abdulaziz Street, serving the administrative heart of the capital.
- Route: Ministry of Education – National Museum
- Length: 12.9 km (12 Stations)
- Key Hubs: Ministry of Interior, Officers Club, and the National Museum.
- Note: This line is essential for employees working in government ministries.
Line 6: The Purple Line (Orbital Route)
The Purple Line forms a half-ring connecting the financial district with universities and eastern residential areas.
- Route: KAFD – An Naseem
- Length: 29.9 km (12 Stations)
- Key Hubs: Imam Muhammad Bin Saud University and KAFD Station.
- Function: It reduces downtown congestion by allowing commuters to circle between districts without entering the center.
Iconic Stations and Interchange Hubs
The Riyadh Metro stations are architectural landmarks in their own right, designed to provide seamless transfers and world-class amenities.
KAFD Station (King Abdullah Financial District)
Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, the KAFD Station is a stunning futuristic hub featuring mashrabiya patterns and desert dune-inspired curves.
- Lines Served: Blue (1), Yellow (4), and Purple (6).
- Features: LEED Gold certified, air-conditioned concourses, and direct access to the financial district.
Olaya Station
Located at the intersection of Olaya Street and King Abdullah Road, Olaya Station serves as the central pulse of the business district.
- Lines Served: Blue (1), Yellow (4), and Orange (3).
- Features: A large public plaza and high-end retail options integrated into the station design.
Western Station
The Western Station is the largest facility in the network (110,000 m²), acting as a massive regional transport interchange.
- Lines Served: Orange Line (3) and Bus Rapid Transit (BRT).
- Location: Dhahrat Al Badi'ah quarter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which line goes to Riyadh Airport?
The Yellow Line (Line 4) connects the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) directly to King Khalid International Airport (Terminals 1-5).
How do I pay for Riyadh Metro tickets?
You can purchase tickets using the Darb Mobile App, at station vending machines, or via contactless smart cards. Fares start at SAR 4 for a 2-hour pass.
Are the trains driverless?
Yes, all six lines of the Riyadh Metro operate fully automated, driverless trains with advanced air-conditioning and safety features.
Is the metro wheelchair accessible?
Absolutely. All stations feature wheelchair-accessible platforms, and trains have designated spaces and priority seating for People of Determination.
Your Next Commute Step
Download the Darb Mobile App today to register your account. If you are planning a trip to the airport soon, familiarize yourself with the Yellow Line (Line 4) schedule to save on taxi fares and avoid traffic.
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