Riyadh Metro Guide: Lines, Fares & Tips 2026

The Riyadh Metro has quickly become one of the easiest and most affordable ways to move around the Saudi capital. With a modern, air-conditioned network that stretches across the city, it lets residents and visitors skip traffic and reach major districts quickly. In this guide from سعودي ليفنج, we break down the lines, operating hours, ticket prices and validity rules for 2026, along with practical tips to make your first ride smooth.

The Network and Lines

The Riyadh Metro currently runs 6 lines covering roughly 176 km across the city, with full normal service reported on all lines. Together they connect central, eastern and western corridors of الرياض, making it easy to reach business hubs, residential neighbourhoods and key landmarks.

• Line 1 (Blue): runs between SAB Bank and Ad Dar Al Baida, forming a key north–south spine.
• Other lines: cover central, eastern and western parts of the city, connecting to major districts and interchange stations.

Lines are colour-coded, which makes navigation simple even if you are new to the city. Look for the colour and terminal station names on signage and in the app to plan your route.

Operating Hours

The Metro typically runs daily from 06:00 to 00:00 (midnight). Plan late-night trips carefully, as services stop around midnight — always confirm current timings before heading out, especially during holidays or special events when schedules may be adjusted.

Standard Fares (Regular Class) – 2026

Regular class offers excellent value for daily commuting and casual travel:

• 2-hour ticket: SAR 4
• 3-day ticket: SAR 20
• 7-day (weekly) ticket: SAR 40
• 30-day (monthly) ticket: SAR 140

First Class Fares – 2026

First class gives you a more spacious, premium experience for a higher price:

• 2-hour ticket: SAR 10
• 3-day ticket: SAR 50
• 7-day ticket: SAR 100
• 30-day ticket: SAR 350

Annual and Student Passes – Effective 2026

If you ride regularly, an annual pass can offer real savings compared with buying repeated tickets:

• Annual pass (Regular class): SAR 1,260
• Annual pass (First class): SAR 3,150
• Student pass (Regular class only): SAR 260, valid 120 days / one academic term from activation

The annual pass is usually integrated with bus services too, making it a flexible option for full-time commuters and students.

Ticket Validity Rules

Understanding how long each ticket lasts helps you pick the right one and avoid overpaying:

• 2-hour ticket: valid 2 hours from activation, typically for one journey or linked rides within that window.
• 3-day ticket: valid 72 hours from first use.
• 7-day ticket: valid 7 calendar days from first use.
• 30-day ticket: valid 30 calendar days from activation.
• Annual pass: valid 12 months from activation, usable across the Metro and usually integrated bus services.
• Student pass: valid about 4 months / one academic term from activation.

Practical Tips for Riders

• Choose your ticket by how often you travel: occasional riders benefit from the 2-hour ticket, while daily commuters save more with 30-day or annual passes.
• Keep your card or ticket handy — you will need to tap at both entry and exit gates.
• Colour-coded lines and terminal station names make transfers straightforward; note your interchange stations before you travel.
• Ride during off-peak hours if you prefer a quieter, more comfortable trip.
• Confirm the latest fares, pass conditions and any schedule changes on the official Riyadh transport channels before purchasing, as details can be updated.

With clean stations, affordable fares and wide coverage, the Riyadh Metro is a genuinely convenient way to explore and commute across the capital. Pick the pass that fits your routine and enjoy the ride.

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