Public Transportation: Riyadh

Transit Systems Overview

Riyadh Metro: A state-of-the-art automated metro system is under phased operational launch. Once fully operational, it will comprise six lines and 85 stations, providing extensive coverage across the city. Lines 1 and 2, along with parts of other lines, are becoming operational, with the full network set to transform urban mobility. The metro features modern, air-conditioned trains and stations. Riyadh Bus (Public Bus Network): A modern public bus network has been implemented to complement the metro system. It covers many parts of the city with various routes, offering a good way to travel within and between districts. The buses are new, air-conditioned, and equipped with comfortable seating.

Detailed route maps for both the Metro and Bus systems are available on the official Riyadh Public Transport (RPT) website and at stations and bus stops. Major interchange points for the metro system include the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD) and Olaya, allowing for seamless transfers between lines. Plan your routes using digital maps and the official RPT app.

Public Transport

Riyadh Metro: State-of-the-art, 6 lines, 85 stations. Modern, air-conditioned trains.
Riyadh Bus: Modern network, new, air-conditioned buses covering many city parts.
Route Maps: Available on RPT website, stations, and app for efficient planning.
Major Hubs: KAFD and Olaya for seamless metro transfers.

Ticketing & Fares

Smart card is the main method for metro and bus. Single tickets may also be available. Fares are generally affordable (SAR 3-10).

Hours & Frequency

Metro operates early morning to late evening, high frequency during peak hours. Buses operate all day with varying frequency.

Accessibility

Both metro and new bus fleet are designed for full accessibility, with ramps, elevators, and designated spaces.

Navigation Tips

Getting Around

Download the official Riyadh Public Transport app for real-time info and fare top-ups.
Public transport provides an air-conditioned escape from summer heat.
Plan journeys in advance using route maps to minimize transfer times.

General Advice

Familiarize yourself with major stations and hubs like KAFD and Olaya.
The system aims for cost-effectiveness, making public transport an economical choice.
Check the RPT app or website for the most current schedules as the system expands.

Public Transit Benefits

Modern

State-of-the-art metro and bus fleet.

Accessible

Designed for full accessibility for all travelers.

Efficient

High frequency during peak hours.

Affordable

Low fares for widespread coverage.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps present convenient door-to-door transportation options.

Licensed Taxis

Identification: Often marked with "Taxi" signs and specific colors (e.g., white or green).
Hailing: You can hail them on the street, especially near hotels and malls, though less common now.
Fares: Operate on meters. Confirm meter use or agree on price beforehand to avoid misunderstandings.
Airport: Readily available outside all terminals at RUH.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Recommended Apps: Uber and Careem are dominant and highly recommended in Riyadh.
Benefits: Fixed prices displayed before trip, cashless payment options, vehicle tracking for safety.
Popularity: Widely used by both locals and tourists for convenience and reliability.
Airport: Designated pick-up/drop-off zones at RUH and major stations.

Safety Considerations

Ride-sharing Apps: Generally safer due to driver background checks, GPS tracking, and customer ratings.
You have a record of your trip and driver details.
Cashless payment removes cash handling.

Taxis: Ensure the taxi is licensed. Confirm the meter works or agree on a price.
For added security, consider taking a photo of the license plate or sharing your location.
Reputable services are the best option.

Airport & Station Logistics

Designated Zones

Pick-up and drop-off zones for taxis and ride-sharing at RUH and major transport stations.

Follow Signs

Follow airport/station signage to find the correct pick-up points.

Ease of Use

These services offer a straightforward and quick way to begin or end your journey.

Rental Options

Renting a vehicle offers freedom to explore at your own pace, especially for day trips.

Car Rental

Requirements: Minimum age (21/23+), valid national driving license, International Driving Permit (IDP), credit card.
Major Companies: Avis, Budget, Hertz, Sixt, Enterprise are present at the airport and city locations.
Insurance: Full coverage insurance is highly recommended due to local driving styles.
Local companies also present options.

Driving & Parking

Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Seatbelts are mandatory. No mobile phone use while driving. Speed limits are strictly enforced.
Road Conditions: Excellent multi-lane highways and urban roads, generally well-maintained.
Parking: Ample parking at malls, hotels, attractions (often free or small fee). Street parking can be challenging in older areas.
Navigation: Use GPS apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates.

Other Rental Notes

Motorcycles/Scooters

Less common for tourists. Not recommended for city travel due to heavy traffic and safety concerns.

Safety first.

Bicycle Rentals

Limited city-wide programs. Some parks offer rentals within their confines. Not prevalent for general commuting.

Recreational use.

Fuel Costs

Petrol stations are numerous, and fuel prices are relatively inexpensive compared to many countries.

Budget-friendly fuel.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Boulevard City, Via Riyadh, Riyadh Front: Modern complexes with wide, pleasant walkways.
Parks: King Abdullah Park, Salam Park, Wadi Hanifah have dedicated walking paths.
Diriyah: Historic Al-Turaif district is pedestrian-friendly within visitor areas.

Cycling & Safety

No-go areas for pedestrians: Most major roads and highways are not pedestrian-friendly. Sidewalks can be inconsistent.
Bicycle infrastructure: Dedicated paths are limited, mainly in parks. Cycling on major roads is not advised due to traffic.
Walking tours: Formal guided tours are limited but private operators can arrange them. Self-guided walks are possible in pedestrian zones.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses: Private tour operators offer bus tours for groups to specific attractions.
No Hop-on-hop-off services are typical in Riyadh.
Other Specialized Transport: Boat taxis, water transport, cable cars, or funiculars are not relevant for inland Riyadh.

Accessibility Services: For travelers with mobility needs, ride-sharing (Uber/Careem with accessible options) or pre-arranged hotel transport are viable choices.
Riyadh's specialized transport focuses on road-based options and organized tours.
Personalized transport is common.

Final Transport Tip

While public transport networks are growing, ride-sharing and car rentals continue to be popular and effective for navigating Riyadh's widespread areas.

Consider your daily itinerary and comfort level when selecting your main mode of transport.

Public Transportation