Riyadh Metro: Connecting Supply Chains and Communities

On November 27, 2024, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (May Allah protect him) inaugurated the Riyadh Metro Project, a cornerstone of the city’s public transport network. Spanning 176 kilometers (109 miles) and featuring six lines with 85 stations, this initiative aims to enhance mobility across Riyadh, aligning with Vision 2030 to improve residents' quality of life. Spearheaded by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City and supported by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the project is designed to provide efficient public transportation while enriching the city’s social, environmental, and urban landscape. Developed in collaboration with major international companies, the metro system will utilize 183 trains and 448 carriages, featuring modern designs from the French firm Avant Premiere. Three of the metro lines will open to the public on December 1, with the remaining lines launching gradually, marking one of the largest public transport projects globally.

"The Riyadh Metro Project, which spans metro and bus networks, is the culmination of concerted efforts made by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and the outcome of his visionary leadership, while serving as the Chairman of the High Commission for the Development of Riyadh, the predecessor of RCRC.” - Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (May Allah protect him)

"The launch of the Riyadh Metro marks the beginning of a new era for transportation services in the Kingdom and establishes the capital as one of the leading global cities in various modern transportation modalities." - Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser-Minister of Transport and Logistics Services

Benefits for Country and Economic Growth

1. Economic Growth Enhancement: The project improves access to commercial and industrial areas, opening new horizons for investment and boosting economic activity.

2. Job Creation: The project requires the establishment and development of infrastructure, providing direct and indirect job opportunities in construction, operation, and maintenance. Saudi talents are also recruited in the rail sector, including operators and administrators. Notably, some universities have been commissioned to provide knowledge support for this project.

3. Achieving Sustainable Development: The project contributes to achieving sustainable development goals by providing eco-friendly and economical transport options, supporting sustainable urban planning. Pollution in the Saudi capital is expected to decrease by 36%, reducing road wear and maintenance costs. The goal is zero net emissions by 2060.

Supply Chain Enhancements

1. Improved Mobility Efficiency: The project contributes to reducing traffic congestion, saving time and effort for citizens, thereby enhancing productivity. The metro has a capacity of 1.16 million passengers daily, and it is expected that trains, which can reach speeds of 80 kilometers per hour, will decrease reliance on private cars by around two million trips daily.

2. Environmental Improvement: The project reduces carbon emissions and pollutants, helping to improve air quality, thereby enhancing public health and reducing health costs associated with pollution. For example, the Al-Hukm Palace area station has demonstrated significant efficiency in energy consumption, achieving a reduction of up to 16.8% compared to ASHRAE 90.1 (2007). This is attributed to the station's reliance on on-site renewable energy sources, which are expected to contribute about 1.45% of its needs. The station also achieved a 66% reduction in water consumption for landscaping and irrigation. The design has internally reduced water use by 40% compared to global standards, thanks to high-efficiency fixtures.

The station's design embodies a model of sustainable infrastructure, using 20% recycled construction materials and 20% locally sourced materials, while fully relying on environmentally friendly materials for sealants and paints, avoiding harmful fluorinated compounds for water cooling purposes. Additionally, construction waste has been reduced by 20% through recycling, with ambitious plans to continue using eco-friendly materials during various operational phases to minimize the project's long-term environmental footprint.

The station aims to achieve "LEED" (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification for sustainable building design and implementation (silver level) through these initiatives and other sustainability standards applied during the design and implementation phases.

Benefits for Society and Community

1. Improved Mobility Efficiency: The project contributes to reducing traffic congestion, saving time and effort for citizens, thereby enhancing productivity. The metro has a capacity of 1.16 million passengers daily, and it is expected that trains, which can reach speeds of 80 kilometers per hour, will decrease reliance on private cars by around two million trips daily.

2. Increased Property Values: Improvements in the project lead to increased property values in areas near transport stations, enhancing real estate investments.

3. Tourism Promotion: The project provides easy means for visitors to navigate, boosting tourism and increasing local revenues, supporting Vision 2030.

Ticket destinations and purchases can be made through:

• The "Darb" app available in mobile app stores.
• The Riyadh Train website.
• The project's social media accounts.
• Instant card printing machines.

4. Cost Reduction for Individuals: The project allows individuals to travel at lower costs compared to relying on personal vehicles, improving the standard of living. The metro ticket prices are as follows:

• Two-hour ticket: 4 riyals.
• Three-day ticket: 20 riyals.
• Seven-day ticket: 40 riyals.
• Thirty-day ticket: 140 riyals.
• Children under six travel for free.
• Tickets include bus services.
• Riyadh Metro tickets for 2024 can be booked electronically through the "Darb" card and the Riyadh Bus app.

5. Enhancing Social Connections: The project helps connect different communities, fostering social interaction and aiding in building a strong collective identity among city residents.

6. Increasing Competitiveness: The project enhances the competitiveness of cities by improving access to markets and resources, making them preferred destinations for investment and residency.

Conclusion

As we embark on this transformative journey with the project, it is essential for citizens and stakeholders to embrace these services and adapt to the new era of urban mobility. By investing in and utilizing the project, individuals can contribute to the overall success of our community and economy.

This initiative not only aligns with Saudi regulations but also aims to achieve our national objectives, including sustainable development and enhanced quality of life. Together, we can leverage the benefits of this project—such as improved mobility, economic growth, and environmental sustainability—to create a brighter future for all.

We encourage everyone to actively participate, utilize the available services, and support the implementation of this vital infrastructure. Let us work hand in hand to realize the vision of a modern, efficient, and sustainable urban environment that meets the needs of our growing population and fosters economic prosperity. Your commitment is essential for the success of this project and for the continued advancement of our beloved country.