Riyadh Metro Guide: Lines, Fares & Rider Tips

The Riyadh Metro has transformed how people move around the Saudi capital, offering a fast, air-conditioned and affordable alternative to sitting in traffic. Whether you are a resident commuting to work, a student heading to campus, or a visitor exploring the city, understanding the lines, fares and simple rules makes every trip smoother. In this Saudi Living guide, we walk you through everything you need to know to ride confidently from your very first journey.

The lines and network

The metro is built around six colour-coded lines that connect the city through 85 stations. Each line covers different corridors of Riyadh, and together they form an integrated network that links major districts, business hubs and residential areas.

• Blue Line
• Red Line
• Orange Line
• Yellow Line
• Green Line
• Purple Line

You can transfer between lines at interchange stations at no extra cost, so a single valid ticket takes you across the whole system.

Operating hours

The metro runs on the following schedule, though special-event and holiday timetables may differ:

• Saturday to Thursday: 5:30 a.m. to midnight
• Friday: 10:00 a.m. to midnight

Because hours can change during holidays or major events, it is worth checking service notices before you travel.

Fares explained

One of the biggest advantages of the metro is that fares do not vary by distance. A valid time-based ticket gives you unlimited travel on the metro and Riyadh Bus during its validity period, including transfers between lines. There are two classes—regular and first—plus a dedicated student pass.

Regular class:

• 2 hours: SAR 4
• 3 days: SAR 20
• 7 days: SAR 40
• 30 days: SAR 140
• Annual: SAR 1,260

First class:

• 2 hours: SAR 10
• 3 days: SAR 50
• 7 days: SAR 100
• 30 days: SAR 350
• Annual: SAR 3,150

Student ticket: SAR 260 for 120 days (first class is not available on the student pass).

A recent 2026 change: annual passes and the 120-day student pass became available from 1 January 2026 at the prices listed above.

Free travel and discounts

Some riders travel free or at reduced rates:

• Children aged six or younger travel free.
• Eligible seniors, students, cancer patients, and families of martyrs may receive a 50% discount under the applicable eligibility rules.

If you think you qualify for a discount, confirm the current eligibility requirements through the official transport channels before purchasing.

How to buy a ticket and ride

Getting started is straightforward once you know the steps:

• Purchase a ticket through the Darb app, approved ticket machines, or authorised transport sales channels.
• Select regular or first class and the duration you need.
• Activate the ticket before entering the paid area.
• Scan your digital ticket or tap your physical ticket at the station gates.
• Follow platform and carriage signs, and use first-class areas only if you hold a first-class ticket.
• Keep your ticket available for inspection throughout your trip.

Remember that the validity period starts when the ticket is activated or first checked in. Tickets expire when the stated period ends, and a pass may also expire at the end of the operating day under the transport authority's rules.

Practical tips for a smooth trip

• Use the Darb app for digital tickets and route planning—it is the easiest way to buy, activate and navigate.
• Allow extra time at interchange stations, especially during peak hours.
• Check service notices before travel, since operating hours can change during holidays or major events.
• Keep your phone charged if you rely on a digital ticket.

For any questions, Riyadh Public Transport customer service can be reached on 19933. With a little planning, the metro quickly becomes the fastest and most relaxed way to get around Riyadh.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving