Riyadh Metro Guide: Lines, Fares & Rider Tips

The Riyadh Metro has transformed how residents and visitors move around the capital, offering a fast, air-conditioned and affordable alternative to sitting in traffic. With a full network now in service, getting from one side of the city to another no longer means long drives or hunting for parking. This Saudi Living guide walks you through the lines, the latest fares, and the practical tips that will make your first (and every) ride smoother.

The network at a glance

The Riyadh Metro currently operates across 6 lines spanning a total of 176 km, making it one of the most extensive driverless metro systems in the region. Passenger service opened in stages: the first lines to welcome riders were Line 1 (Blue), Line 4 (Yellow) and Line 6 (Purple), followed later by Line 2 (Red) and Line 5 (Green).

Each line is colour-coded, which makes navigating stations and interchanges straightforward once you learn the colours that matter for your regular journeys. The lines connect major districts, business hubs and key landmarks, so many everyday trips can now be done end-to-end on the metro.

Fares: regular class

Fares are time-based, so you pay for a window of travel rather than The regular-class options are:

• 2-hour ticket: SAR 4
• 3-day pass: SAR 20
• 7-day pass: SAR 40
• 30-day pass: SAR 140
• Annual pass: SAR 1,260

For most commuters and casual riders, the 2-hour ticket is the everyday choice, while the 30-day and annual passes offer real savings if you ride regularly.

Fares: first class

First class offers a more spacious, premium travel experience for those who want extra comfort:

• 2-hour ticket: SAR 10
• 3-day pass: SAR 50
• 7-day pass: SAR 100
• 30-day pass: SAR 350
• Annual pass: SAR 3,150

Students, children and special passes

There are additional options worth knowing about:

• Student ticket: SAR 260, valid for 120 days (4 months). This is available for regular class only.
• Children under 6: travel free of charge.
• Annual pass: valid for 12 months.

Note that the annual pass and student pass pricing took effect on 1 January 2026, so if you saw older figures elsewhere, use the amounts above and confirm the latest details through the official channel before purchasing.

One ticket, two modes of transport

One of the most useful features of the system is integration: a metro ticket also covers bus travel within the integrated public transport network. That means a single pass can carry you across the metro and connecting bus routes, making it easier to reach destinations that aren't directly on a metro line. If your journey combines a metro leg and a short bus hop, you don't need to buy separate tickets.

How to buy your ticket

You can purchase tickets through two official channels:

• The Darb app, which lets you buy and manage your passes from your phone.
• Ticket vending machines located at metro stations.

For most riders, the Darb app is the most convenient option because you can top up in advance and avoid queues at the machines during peak hours.

Practical tips for a smooth ride

• Match the pass to your habits: if you ride most days, the 30-day or annual pass usually works out cheaper than buying individual tickets.
• Learn your line colours: knowing whether you're on Blue, Red, Green, Yellow or Purple makes interchanges quick and stress-free.
• Travel light at peak times: mornings and evenings are busiest, so allow a little extra time.
• Keep the app ready: having your Darb pass loaded and your phone charged saves time at the gates.
• Bring the kids: children under 6 ride free, making the metro a budget-friendly family option.

Whether you're commuting daily or exploring the capital on weekends, the Riyadh Metro is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to get around. Choose the pass that fits your routine, download the Darb app, and enjoy the ride.

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