Riyadh Metro Guide: Lines, Fares & Smart 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're a long-term resident heading to work or a visitor exploring the city for a few days, understanding the network's six lines, ticket options and the Darb app will make every trip smoother. In this سعودي ليفنج guide, we break down everything you need to know to ride with confidence in 2026.

The network at a glance

The Riyadh Metro is built around six lines that stretch across the city, connecting major districts, business hubs, universities and transport points. The lines are colour-coded, which makes navigation easy once you know your route. Stations are clearly signed, and interchange points let you switch between lines to reach almost any corner of the capital.

Because the network is designed for transfers, a single journey can take you across multiple lines without leaving the paid area — something worth keeping in mind when you choose your ticket type.

Ticket types and 2026 fares

The metro offers both Standard and First Class tickets, with prices scaling by how long the ticket stays valid. Here are the fares for 2026:

• 2-hour Standard ticket: SAR 4 (First Class: SAR 10)
• 3-day Standard ticket: SAR 20 (First Class: SAR 50)
• 7-day Standard ticket: SAR 40 (First Class: SAR 100)
• 30-day Standard ticket: SAR 140 (First Class: SAR 350)
• Annual Standard ticket: SAR 1,260 (First Class: SAR 3,150)
• Student ticket: SAR 260, valid for 120 days (Standard class only)

Two options are new for 2026: the Annual pass, which applies from 1 January 2026, and the student pass, which is offered in Standard class only. Both are aimed at frequent riders who want to save compared with buying shorter tickets repeatedly.

Which ticket should you choose?

Your best value depends on how often you ride:

• Short visits: The 2-hour ticket (SAR 4) is the standard single-trip option. Because it allows transfers within its validity window, you can hop between lines to reach your destination on one ticket.
• A few days in the city: The 3-day or 7-day passes offer unlimited convenience for tourists and short-stay visitors.
• Regular commuters: The 30-day pass suits anyone travelling daily, while the Annual pass delivers the biggest savings for year-round riders.
• Students: The 120-day student ticket is a budget-friendly choice for those heading to campus regularly.

Children under 6 ride free, which makes the metro an easy option for families exploring Riyadh together.

How to buy tickets with the Darb app

Ticketing runs through the Darb app, which is used both to purchase your ticket and to use it for your trips. It's worth downloading and setting up before you head to the station so you're not fumbling at the gate. Through the app you can pick your ticket type, pay, and access your ticket to tap through the fare gates.

Set up the app in advance, make sure your payment method is ready, and keep your phone charged — your ticket lives on your device.

Practical tips for a smooth ride

• Plan your transfers: Know your interchange stations before you travel so you switch lines confidently.
• Mind the clock on 2-hour tickets: Your journey and any transfers must fit within the validity window, so start moving once you tap in.
• Choose First Class for extra comfort: If you value more space during peak hours, First Class is available across every ticket duration.
• Travel light at rush hour: Mornings and evenings can be busy, so allow a little extra time.
• Keep your phone ready: Since ticketing is app-based, a charged phone keeps your travel stress-free.

The bottom line

With six well-connected lines, flexible ticket durations and simple app-based ticketing, the Riyadh Metro is one of the easiest and most economical ways to get around the capital. Start with a 2-hour ticket if you're just testing the waters, and upgrade to a longer pass once you know how often you'll ride. For any details that may change over time — including step-by-step ticketing instructions — confirm the latest information through the official Darb app before you travel.

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