The Royal Commission for Riyadh City has awarded the design and construction contract for an extension of the Riyadh Metro’s Red Line. The project will add 8.4 kilometres from King Saud University to the Diriyah Gate development, with five new stations.
The project forms part of Riyadh’s ongoing development under King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, with support from Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, chairman of the commission’s board, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
It builds on the Riyadh public transport project inaugurated under the King’s patronage in November 2024, with the metro serving as the backbone of the capital’s transport network.
Minister of State, Cabinet Member and Royal Commission for Riyadh City CEO Eng. Ibrahim bin Mohammed Al-Sultan said the Red Line extension strengthens public transport and advances a sustainable urban network linking key centres, residential communities, and cultural and educational landmarks.
He said the project responds to growing use of public transport by residents and visitors since operations began in late 2024. Ridership has exceeded 173 million since inauguration, reflecting public confidence in the network’s efficiency and service standards.
The extension includes 7.1 kilometres of deep underground tunnels and 1.3 kilometres of elevated track. Two stations will be at King Saud University: one serving the medical city and health colleges, and another serving the university’s main concourse. Three stations will be in Diriyah, including a future interchange with Line Seven. Completion is planned in approximately six years.
Stations within the Diriyah Gate development will connect major destinations including At-Turaif, Al-Bujairi and the opera house, enriching residents’ and visitors’ experiences and reducing journey times. Travel from King Fahd Sports City station to central Diriyah will take no more than 40 minutes.
The project is expected to reduce daily vehicle traffic by 150,000, providing more varied and flexible travel options to and from Diriyah.
In cooperation with relevant authorities, the commission has prepared an integrated traffic-diversion plan for roads affected by construction within the university and Diriyah, aiming to maintain smooth traffic flows until completion.
To read the Saudi Press Agency report, click here.
Read also: King Salman Inaugurates Riyadh Metro with Six Lines and 85 Stations Covering 176 Kilometres
