Riyadh Metro: A Comprehensive Technical Profile

The Riyadh Metro Project (RMP) is a 176km fully automated urban rail network engineered to provide a high-capacity public transport backbone for the rapidly expanding capital of Saudi Arabia. This profile details the technical specifications, key contractors, and strategic objectives of one of the world’s largest integrated public transport projects, designed to mitigate traffic congestion and support sustainable urban growth.

Technical Specifications

Rolling Stock & Automation

The network operates with a fully automated, driverless system (GoA4), optimizing operational frequency and efficiency. The rolling stock is supplied by three leading manufacturers: Siemens provides 74 Inspiro trainsets for Lines 1 and 2; Alstom supplies 69 Metropolis trainsets for Lines 4, 5, and 6; and Ansaldo STS (now Hitachi Rail STS) / Bombardier (now Alstom) supplies 47 AnsaldoBreda trainsets for Line 3. These vehicles are designed for the region’s climate and feature advanced passenger comfort and information systems.

Signalling & Control Systems

A state-of-the-art Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) system is implemented across all six lines, ensuring high safety standards and enabling short headways between trains. Siemens has equipped Lines 1 and 2 with its Trainguard MT CBTC technology. Ansaldo STS (Hitachi) has implemented its own CBTC solution for Line 3, while Alstom’s Urbalis 400 system manages Lines 4, 5, and 6. A centralized Operational Control Centre (OCC) oversees the entire network, managing train movements, station operations, and power supply.

Infrastructure & Sustainability

The project’s infrastructure is a complex mix of underground tunnels (approx. 40%), elevated viaducts (approx. 48%), and at-grade sections. Three of the 85 stations are iconic architectural landmarks designed by world-renowned firms: the KAFD Station (Zaha Hadid Architects), Olaya Station (Gerber Architekten), and Qasr Al-Hokm (Downtown) Station (Snøhetta). In a commitment to sustainability, the project targets LEED certification for several key stations. It also employs Alstom’s HESOP (Harmonic Energy Saver) regenerative braking system, which captures kinetic energy from braking trains to reduce overall energy consumption by up to 20% and lower carbon emissions.

Key Takeaways

• Urban Mobility Transformation: The metro provides a high-capacity alternative to private vehicles, directly addressing Riyadh’s severe traffic congestion and aiming to increase public transport’s modal share from 2% to 20%.
• Benchmark for Sustainable Infrastructure: Through LEED-certified stations, advanced regenerative braking (HESOP), and electric-powered operation, the project sets a new standard for sustainable megaprojects in the Middle East.
• Economic and Social Catalyst: The metro network is designed to integrate seamlessly with a new bus rapid transit (BRT) system, stimulating economic activity around station hubs and improving quality of life by connecting residential, commercial, and governmental centers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When will the Riyadh Metro be fully operational?

The Riyadh Metro is undergoing a phased opening process that began in 2024. While several lines are now in service, the entire 176km, six-line network is expected to achieve full operational status by mid-2026, following the completion of all system-wide testing and commissioning phases.

Who are the main companies building the Riyadh Metro?

The project is being delivered by three primary international consortiums. The BACS consortium, led by Bechtel, includes Siemens and AECOM. The Arriyadh New Mobility (ANM) consortium is led by Salini Impregilo and includes Ansaldo STS (Hitachi) and Larsen & Toubro. The FAST consortium is led by FCC and includes Alstom, Samsung C&T, and Strukton.