RCRC awards contract for 8.4 km Riyadh Metro Red Line Extension to Diriyah

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (Metro Rail Today): The Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC) has awarded a contract for the design, implementation and completion of an extension to the Red Line of the Riyadh Metro network, marking another major step in the capital’s public transport expansion.

The existing Red Line currently operates along King Abdullah Road between King Saud University and King Fahd Sports City. The corridor spans 25.3 kilometres and serves 13 stations, including three key interchange stations.

Under the newly awarded contract, the Red Line will be extended by 8.4 kilometres from King Saud University to the Diriyah Gate Development. The extension will add five new stations to the network, strengthening connectivity between Riyadh and one of the Kingdom’s most prominent heritage and tourism destinations.

According to RCRC, the scope of work includes the construction of 7.1 kilometres of deep underground tunnels and 1.3 kilometres of elevated track. The project is expected to be completed within six years.

Stations within the Diriyah Gate Development area will provide direct access to major landmarks such as the Al-Turaif and Al-Bajiri districts, as well as the Opera House, significantly enhancing public transport access to cultural, residential and tourism hubs.

The Red Line expansion is forecast to remove up to 150,000 vehicles per day from the road network, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative for travel to and from Diriyah. Upon completion of the extension, the Red Line will have a total length of 33.7 kilometres and serve 20 stations.

RCRC did not disclose the contract value or the name of the contractor awarded the project.