Complete Guide to Riyadh Metro Routes, Timings, Fares, and More (2025)
Riyadh Metro is changing how the city moves. With shiny modern trains, driverless Technology, and six color-coded lines, this metro isn’t just a big leap for Riyadh—it’s a major milestone for public Transport in Saudi Arabia.
This guide gives you all the details: routes, schedules, key stations, ticket prices, and tips for a smooth ride. Whether you commute daily, travel for business, or explore as a visitor, you’ll find simple, up-to-date insights to help you get around Riyadh using the metro.
Why Riyadh Metro Matters
Until recently, Riyadh residents mainly relied on cars, taxis, or buses. Traffic and congestion were daily headaches. With the launch of the metro in late 2024 and final expansion early 2025, city life is easier for everyone.
- Saves time: No more being stuck for hours in traffic.
- Eco-friendly: Cuts pollution and reduces city noise.
- Inclusive: Connects key districts, malls, events, and neighborhoods.
Riyadh Metro Network: Overview
The Riyadh Metro has six major routes (lines), each with its own color and number. The network covers 176 kilometers with 85 stations, including major interchange hubs.
| Line # | Line Name | Color | Length | Stations | Termini (Endpoints) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Blue Line | Blue | 38 km | 25 | SAB Bank ↔ Ad Dar Al-Baida |
| 2 | Red Line | Red | 25.3 km | 15 | King Saud Univ. ↔ King Fahd Sports City |
| 3 | Orange Line | Orange | 40.7 km | 22+ | Jeddah Road ↔ Khashm Al-An |
| 4 | Yellow Line | Yellow | 29.6 km | 9 | KKIA Terminals 1-2 ↔ KAFD |
| 5 | Green Line | Green | 12.9 km | 12 | Ministry of Education ↔ National Museum |
| 6 | Purple Line | Purple | 29.9 km | 11 | KAFD ↔ An Naseem |
Key facts:
- The metro covers downtown, business areas, universities, major malls, the airport, and new suburbs.
- Major interchange stations allow transfers between routes.
Metro Line Highlights
Here’s what each line offers and which areas it serves:
1. Blue Line (Line 1)
- Route: SAB Bank (north) to Ad Dar Al-Baida (south)
- Landmarks: Passes Olaya Street, Al-Bathaa, and several key city zones.
- Great for: Business centers, Shopping malls, central Riyadh
2. Red Line (Line 2)
- Route: King Saud University to King Fahd Sports City
- Landmarks: Runs along King Abdullah Road.
- Great for: Students, sports fans, northern and eastern neighborhoods
3. Orange Line (Line 3)
- Route: Jeddah Road to Khashm Al-An
- Landmarks: Connects the east and west ends of the city. Now with added stations, like Railway Station and Jarir District.
- Great for: Major residential areas, Railway connection, cross-city travel
4. Yellow Line (Line 4)
- Route: King Abdullah Financial District to King Khalid International Airport
- Landmarks: Airport terminals, financial zone
- Great for: Travelers flying from KKIA, business commuters
5. Green Line (Line 5)
- Route: Ministry of Education to National Museum
- Landmarks: Government district, cultural center
- Great for: Visitors, cultural events, education sector
6. Purple Line (Line 6)
- Route: King Abdullah Financial District to An Naseem
- Landmarks: Connects to newer residential developments
- Great for: City outskirts, new Riyadh suburbs
When Does Riyadh Metro Operate? Timings and Schedules
Riyadh Metro runs on a convenient schedule to suit both early risers and night owls. As of July 2025, these are the regular timings:
| Day | Start Time | End Time |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday-Thursday | 6:00 AM | 12:00 AM |
| Fridays | 8:00 AM | 12:00 AM |
Special timings may apply during Ramadan, Eid, and national holidays:
Note: Trains run every 5–10 minutes, but evenings and weekends can be busier.
Riyadh Metro Fares and Tickets
Fares for Riyadh Metro are simple and flexible, making metro travel affordable for everyone. Prices are split into Standard and First Class.
| Ticket Type | Standard Fare (SAR) | First Class Fare (SAR) |
|---|---|---|
| 2-hour Pass | 4 | 10 |
| 3-day Pass | 20 | 50 |
| 7-day Pass | 40 | 100 |
| 30-day Pass (Monthly) | 140 | 350 |
How to buy tickets:
All tickets must be purchased via the “Darb” app, where you also select your destination and recharge your pass.
Good to know
- The same pass covers both metro trains and bus networks during the validity.
- Children under 6 travel free with an adult.
Top Metro Stations and Transfer Hubs
Riyadh Metro’s 85 stations include four major “interchange” points.
- King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD): Transfer hub for major business and airport routes.
- STC Station: Connects different lines, located on King Abdullah Road.
- Qasr Al-Hakam Station: Central location with connections to multiple lines and the historic district.
- Western Station: Outbound link to new residential zones.
Most lines also connect directly to major malls (e.g., Kingdom Centre, Al Nakheel), universities, government offices, and King Khalid International Airport.
What Facilities Can You Expect?
Modern facilities help make the ride smooth.
- Air-conditioned trains and stations
- Real-time train schedules on digital screens
- Security and CCTV in all trains/stations
- Lifts and escalators for accessibility
- Priority seats for seniors and people with disabilities
- Integrated mobility with Riyadh Buses across the city
- Clean waiting areas and restrooms
Table: Quick Snapshot of Riyadh Metro Lines
| Line | Color | Key Stops/Areas | Suits for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue | Blue | Olaya St, Al Bathaa, downtown | Central workers, shoppers |
| Red | Red | KSU, King Fahd Sports City, King Abdullah Rd | Students, commuters |
| Orange | Orange | Jeddah Rd, Railway St, Jarir District, Khashm Al-An | East-west city travel, residents |
| Yellow | Yellow | KKIA, KAFD | Airport, finance district |
| Green | Green | Ministry of Education, National Museum | Education, tourists |
| Purple | Purple | KAFD, An Naseem | New suburbs, urban growth areas |
How to Plan a Metro Trip in Riyadh
- Download and use the “Darb” app for schedules, maps, and tickets.
- Plan connections in advance, especially if using buses or changing lines.
- Arrive 5–10 minutes early; peak hours (6–8 AM, 5–8 PM) mean more crowds.
- Most signage is in Arabic and English.
Travel Tips for Metro Riders
- Eating, drinking, and smoking are not allowed on trains.
- Keep your ticket or app QR handy for inspection.
- Respect priority seating and station staff.
- Stay behind the yellow safety line at the platform.
A personal tip: On my last trip to the airport, I used the Yellow Line. It cut a 45-minute taxi ride to just over 20 minutes—and I saved on fares!
Recent Updates for 2025
- Orange Line now open and expanded: Including new stations, like Hassan bin Thabet St.
- Friday operating hours changed: Trains start at 8:00 AM, not 6:00 AM, on Fridays.
- Network fully operational: All six lines, 85 stations, serving millions since January 2025.
Table: FAQs – Riyadh Metro At a Glance
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How many lines does Riyadh Metro have? | Six (Blue, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Purple) |
| When does the metro run? | Daily 6:00 AM–12:00 AM, Fridays 8:00 AM–12:00 AM |
| How much does a ticket cost? | SAR 4 (standard, 2 hours); see fare table above for more options |
| Where can I buy tickets? | Via the “Darb” app, available in app stores |
| Does it connect to the airport? | Yes, Yellow Line takes you to KKIA |
| What if I lose my ticket? | Report to station staff or contact the Darb app team |
| Can I use the Riyadh Metro card on buses? | Yes, during your pass validity |
(FAQ’s)
Q: Can tourists use the metro easily?
Yes, all announcements and instructions are in English and Arabic. Maps, staff, and the Darb app help foreigners move around with ease.
Q: Is the Riyadh Metro safe for late-night travel?
Absolutely. Security staff, cameras, and well-lit stations make it safe even late at night.
Q: Are the trains accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. Stations and trains are fully accessible with ramps, lifts, and reserved seats.
Q: What if there is a service disruption?
Updates are posted instantly on the Darb app and station screens. Backup buses may run if lines are down.
Q: Can I bring luggage or bikes?
Small luggage is fine. Bikes are allowed during off-peak hours. Check with staff for special circumstances.
Q: Are there ticket discounts for students or seniors?
Currently, standard pricing applies, but special offers may be announced for students and seniors in future.
Conclusion: Metro Makes Riyadh Move
Riyadh Metro opens up the city in new ways. With fast connections, clear routes, and affordable tickets, it is the best way to get across town—whether for school, work, or sightseeing. Download the Darb app, check your route, and enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey beneath and across the city.
Now, you have all the up-to-date details on routes, stations, hours, tickets, and real tips for success. Riyadh Metro is here—the city is yours to explore!
