Riyadh Metro 2025: Full Opening Status, Operating Hours & New Lines
The wait is over. The Riyadh Metro is fully operational with 6 lines and 85 stations. Discover the 2025 schedule, ridership records, and what to expect from the new Line 7.
By Rifat Hossain
Riyadh Metro 2025: Full Opening & Operational Status
The Riyadh Metro opening date marked a historic turning point for urban mobility in Saudi Arabia, culminating in a fully operational network by early 2025. Following its inauguration by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on November 27, 2024, the system has rapidly transformed into the backbone of the capital's transport infrastructure. As of December 2025, the metro stands as a completed engineering marvel, featuring six automated lines, 85 stations, and seamless integration with the city's bus network.
This guide provides a definitive update on the Riyadh Metro operating hours, current network status, and the record-breaking adoption rates that have defined its first year of service.
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Historic Phased Opening Timeline
The Riyadh Metro followed a strategic phased launch to ensure system stability and public safety.
- Phase 1 (December 1, 2024): The launch of the Blue (Line 1), Yellow (Line 4), and Purple (Line 6) lines, covering an initial 100 km and opening 46 stations to the public.
- Phase 2 (December 15, 2024): The activation of the Red (Line 2) and Green (Line 5) lines, adding another 49 km of track.
- Phase 3 (January 5, 2025): The network reached full completion with the opening of the Orange (Line 3), the final 27 km segment.
Current Status: As of December 2025, the Riyadh Metro is 100% fully operational, with all 176 kilometers of track and 85 stations in active daily service.
2025 Operating Hours and Schedule
To better serve the city's workforce and students, the Riyadh Metro operating hours were adjusted in September 2025, shifting the start time earlier to 5:00 AM.
| Days | Operating Hours | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Monday - Thursday | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Every 2.5 – 3 mins |
| Friday | 5:00 AM – 1:00 AM | Every 2.5 – 3 mins |
| Saturday - Sunday | 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM | Every 2.5 – 3 mins |
Ramadan Schedule: During the Holy Month, services are extended significantly, running from 8:15 AM to 2:59 AM on weekdays to accommodate evening prayers and Suhoor activities.
Complete Network Overview
The system comprises six color-coded lines that connect every major district in Riyadh, from the historic downtown to the airport.
| Line | Color | Route | Length | Opened |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Line 1 | Blue | North-South (Al-Olaya) | 38 km | Dec 1, 2024 |
| Line 2 | Red | East-West (King Abdullah Rd) | 25.3 km | Dec 15, 2024 |
| Line 3 | Orange | East-West (Madinah Rd) | 40.7 km | Jan 5, 2025 |
| Line 4 | Yellow | Airport Connection | 29.6 km | Dec 1, 2024 |
| Line 5 | Green | Govt. District (King Abdulaziz) | 12.9 km | Dec 15, 2024 |
| Line 6 | Purple | Half-Ring Route | 29.9 km | Dec 1, 2024 |
Ridership Success and Milestones
The public adoption of the Riyadh Metro has exceeded all initial projections, highlighting the city's hunger for efficient public transport.
- 100 Million Passengers: Reached within the first 9 months of operation (by August 2025).
- Q3 2025 Growth: The metro transported 25.2 million passengers in the third quarter alone, driving a massive 335% year-over-year growth in Saudi Arabia’s rail sector.
- Daily Average: The system now serves approximately 250,000 to 300,000 passengers daily, with peaks exceeding 400,000 during major events.
Future Expansion: Line 7 and Beyond
While the current phase is complete, Riyadh Metro news indicates that expansion is already underway.
- Line 7: Announced to connect the massive Qiddiya entertainment city to the existing network.
- Timeline: Expected opening between 2026 and 2027.
- Scope: This expansion will push the total network length beyond 200 kilometers and add 20-30 new stations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Riyadh Metro fully open now?
Yes. As of January 5, 2025, all six lines (Blue, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Purple) are fully operational and open to the public.
What are the new operating hours?
Trains run from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM on weekdays and weekends, with extended service until 1:00 AM on Fridays.
Which line goes to the airport?
The Yellow Line (Line 4) provides direct connectivity from the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) to King Khalid International Airport terminals.
How much is a metro ticket?
A standard 2-hour pass costs SAR 4, while a 30-day pass is SAR 140. Students receive a 50% discount on all fares.
Your Next Commute Step
If you haven't yet experienced the fully operational network, download the Darb App today. Use the interactive riyadh metro network map to plan a trip from your nearest station to a major hub like KAFD or the National Museum to see the world-class infrastructure firsthand.
