The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) announced the launch of the Orange Line (Al Madinah Al Munawwarah Axis) of the Riyadh Metro on Sunday, January 5, 2025, marking the completion of the phased rollout of the network’s six lines. The Orange Line extends 41 kilometers from east to west, from Jeddah Road to the Second Eastern Ring Road, parallel to Khashm Al Aan. This launch follows the inauguration plan and enhances connectivity across the Saudi capital.
Context and Background
The Riyadh Metro is a flagship infrastructure project under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aimed at modernizing urban transport and reducing traffic congestion. The Orange Line is the final piece in the puzzle, following the earlier launches of the Blue, Red, Green, Purple, and Yellow lines. Together, these lines form a 176-kilometer network with 85 stations, positioning Riyadh as a leader in sustainable urban mobility in the region.
Key Details
Passengers on the Orange Line can access five initial stations: Jeddah Road, Tuwaiq, Al Dawh, Harun Al Rashid Road, and An Naseem—an interchange linking the Orange and Purple lines. Simultaneously, RCRC also announced the start of operations at three new Blue Line stations: Al Murooj, Bank Al Bilad, and King Fahad Library. Operating hours are from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM daily. Tickets can be purchased via the “Darb” mobile application, ticket offices, or self-service machines at stations.
Implications and Impact
The full operationalization of all six Riyadh Metro lines is expected to significantly improve connectivity across the capital, easing travel for residents and visitors alike. By providing a modern, efficient public transport alternative, the network reduces reliance on cars, cuts emissions, and supports economic growth by linking key commercial and residential districts. This development also enhances Riyadh’s appeal as a global business and tourism hub.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The Riyadh Metro directly advances Vision 2030’s goals of creating vibrant, sustainable cities and improving quality of life. By offering a world-class public transport system, the project supports economic diversification, environmental sustainability, and social development. As the Orange Line becomes operational, Riyadh takes another major step toward its transformation into a leading global metropolis, in line with the Kingdom’s long-term strategic ambitions.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the Orange Line of the Riyadh Metro?
A1. The Orange Line, also called the Al Madinah Al Munawwarah Axis, is the latest line of the Riyadh Metro to open, stretching 41 kilometers from east to west across the Saudi capital.
Q2. When did the Orange Line start operating?
A2. The Orange Line began operations on Sunday, January 5, 2025, as announced by the Royal Commission for Riyadh City.
Q3. Which stations are operational on the Orange Line from day one?
A3. The initial stations include Jeddah Road, Tuwaiq, Al Dawh, Harun Al Rashid Road, and An Naseem, which is an interchange with the Purple Line.
Q4. How long is the Orange Line?
A4. The Orange Line extends for a total length of 41 kilometers, running from Jeddah Road to the Second Eastern Ring Road.
Q5. How many lines does the Riyadh Metro now have?
A5. With the launch of the Orange Line, all six lines of the Riyadh Metro network are now operational: Blue, Red, Green, Purple, Yellow, and Orange.
Q6. What is the significance of the Orange Line launch?
A6. The Orange Line launch marks the completion of the phased rollout of the entire Riyadh Metro network, fulfilling the plan announced at the project’s inauguration.
Q7. What other stations opened on the Blue Line on January 5, 2025?
A7. Three new Blue Line stations opened: Al Murooj, Bank Al Bilad, and King Fahad Library, enhancing access along the Al Olaya–Al Batha axis.
Q8. What are the operating hours of the Riyadh Metro?
A8. The Riyadh Metro operates daily from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM, ensuring convenient travel for residents and visitors.
Q9. How can passengers buy tickets for the Riyadh Metro?
A9. Passengers can purchase tickets using the “Darb” mobile application, at ticket offices, or via self-service machines located at metro stations.
Q10. What is the “Darb” mobile application used for?
A10. The Darb app allows passengers to plan their journeys, identify destinations, and purchase tickets for the Riyadh Metro network.
Q11. How can people get more information about the Riyadh Metro?
A11. For more information, people can contact the unified public transport Call Center at 19933 or visit the Riyadh Metro website or social media accounts.
Q12. What is the total length of the Riyadh Metro network?
A12. The full Riyadh Metro network spans 176 kilometers, making it one of the largest public transport projects in the region.
Q13. How many stations does the Riyadh Metro network have?
A13. The network includes a total of 85 stations, designed to connect key areas across Riyadh efficiently.
Q14. Who announced the launch of the Orange Line?
A14. The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) officially announced the launch of the Orange Line and the opening of new Blue Line stations.
Q15. What is the role of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City?
A15. RCRC is responsible for planning and implementing major development projects in Riyadh, including the Riyadh Metro, to align with Vision 2030 goals.
Q16. How does the Riyadh Metro support Vision 2030?
A16. The metro reduces traffic congestion, lowers emissions, improves quality of life, and supports economic diversification, all key pillars of Vision 2030.
Q17. What are the benefits of the Riyadh Metro for residents?
A17. Residents benefit from faster, more reliable travel, reduced commute times, and better access to employment, education, and leisure areas across Riyadh.
Q18. What are the benefits of the Riyadh Metro for visitors?
A18. Visitors can easily explore Riyadh’s attractions, business districts, and cultural sites using the modern, safe, and affordable metro network.
Q19. How does the Riyadh Metro contribute to sustainability?
A19. By providing a low-carbon transport alternative, the metro helps reduce vehicle emissions, supporting Saudi Arabia’s environmental sustainability targets.
Q20. What is the long-term vision for Riyadh’s public transport?
A20. The Riyadh Metro is part of a broader strategy to create a world-class integrated public transport system, including buses, to further enhance urban mobility by 2030.
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