Riyadh | BETH – 23 Rajab 1447 AH (January 12, 2026)

The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) has awarded the contract for the design and construction of the new expansion of the Red Line within the Riyadh Metro network, adding 8.4 kilometers to the existing route. The extension will run from King Saud University to the Diriyah Gate Development, and will include five new stations, as part of efforts to complete the capital’s public transport system and enhance connectivity between key districts, residential communities, and major educational, cultural, and healthcare hubs.

The project forms part of Riyadh’s ongoing development drive under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, with the continued support and guidance of HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and Chairman of the RCRC. It builds on the Riyadh Public Transport Project, inaugurated in November 2024, which established the metro as the backbone of the capital’s public transport network.

Eng. Ibrahim bin Mohammed Al-Sultan, Minister of State and CEO of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, said the Red Line extension will strengthen the city’s sustainable urban mobility network, linking vital centers, residential districts, and cultural and educational landmarks. He noted that public confidence in the system continues to grow, with ridership exceeding 173 million passengers since operations began in late 2024.

The expansion includes 7.1 kilometers of deep underground tunnels and 1.3 kilometers of elevated tracks, along with five new stations. Two stations will be located at King Saud University, serving the Medical City, health colleges, and the university’s main concourse, while three stations will be in Diriyah, one of which will serve as a future interchange with Line 7. The project is expected to be completed in approximately six years.

The extension will enhance connectivity to key Diriyah destinations, including At-Turaif District, Al-Bujairi Quarter, and the Opera House, enriching the experience for residents and visitors alike and reducing travel times. The journey between King Fahd Sports City Station and central Diriyah is expected to take no more than 40 minutes. The project is also forecast to reduce daily car traffic by up to 150,000 vehicles, providing more flexible and sustainable mobility options.

To support implementation, the RCRC has developed an integrated traffic management plan for road diversions in project areas within the university and Diriyah, in coordination with relevant authorities, to ensure smooth traffic flow throughout the construction period.