Orange Line: Jeddah Road to Khashm Al-An

Why, Where, How

The Orange Line is Riyadh's longest metro route at 40.7 kilometers, bridging the western and eastern industrial corridors—ideal for shift workers, factory commuters, and travelers heading to remote neighborhoods. Stretching from Jeddah Road (west) to Khashm Al-An (east), this route connects underserved zones with the city center in a single direct journey. Secure a SAR 4 standard ticket via the Darb app or station machines; first-class seats cost SAR 10. The line began full operations in January 2025, serving 22 stations across the city's width.

Journey Experience & Landmarks

The Orange Line's character shifts dramatically across its span—beginning in commercial zones (Jeddah Road area), transitioning through industrial districts, and terminating at Khashm Al-An, the industrial heartland serving Riyadh's manufacturing base. Notable stops include Al Rajhi Grand Mosque (spiritual landmark and cultural site), Tuwaiq, and An Naseem (an important interchange with the Purple Line). The route is less crowded than downtown Blue Line sections, offering a more relaxed, spacious commuting experience. Journey time averages 45 minutes end-to-end. Signage is bilingual and clear; look for mosque domes and industrial zone markers as visual cues for orientation.

The "Local Scoop"

Orange Line trains are fully air-conditioned, though passengers should bring a light layer—long routes mean prolonged AC exposure. Family carriages provide dedicated spaces for women and families, particularly important on this longer journey. During Ramadan, respect fasting passengers by avoiding food or beverages during daylight hours. The line is less peak-dependent than central routes; however, morning (6–7 AM) and evening (4–5 PM) shifts still see moderate crowding at industrial stops. Avoid midday traffic entirely—one major advantage of metro over taxi travel on this long western-eastern corridor.

Integration & Comparisons

Transfer to the Purple Line at An Naseem for access to northern Riyadh and the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD). The Orange Line eliminates 45 minutes of highway congestion compared to a taxi journey across the same distance, which would cost 80–100 SAR; metro travel at SAR 4 offers both savings and reliability. For workers commuting from Jeddah Road industrial zones to Khashm Al-An, this is the cheapest and most predictable transport option. Use the Darb app to plan connections and track the line's 5–7 minute frequency.