Saudi Arabia's $25bn Riyadh Metro project sets record as World's Largest Driverless Train System

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (Metro Rail Today): Saudi Arabia's Riyadh Metro, with a total cost nearing $25 billion, is now recognized as the world’s largest driverless train system. This ambitious infrastructure project, which involves 19 companies from 13 countries, is poised to significantly transform the capital city’s transportation landscape.

Ibrahim Al-Sultan, CEO of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC), shared these details in an interview with Saudi Rotana TV on Monday night, where he provided insights into the scale and scope of the metro project. The Riyadh Metro, which consists of six lines stretching across 176 kilometers, aims to provide a sustainable and efficient public transportation solution for one of the largest cities in the Arab world.

A $25 Billion Project with Global Participation

The total cost of the Riyadh Metro project is estimated at around $25 billion, a figure that may seem steep but is actually among the lowest costs globally for a project of this magnitude. Al-Sultan emphasized that, while the project’s financial scale is considerable, the cost per kilometer—around $166 million—is relatively low compared to similar projects in other major cities around the world.

This extensive project saw the participation of three international consortia, including companies from countries such as the United States, Spain, Italy, and others. The scale of international collaboration underlines the global significance of the Riyadh Metro as an example of cutting-edge urban transportation development.

Energy Consumption and Infrastructure

With energy efficiency and sustainability in mind, the Riyadh Metro is expected to consume nearly 468 megawatts (MW) of electricity annually. To support this, 12 stations have been built, each designed with the necessary infrastructure to power the metro system efficiently. This energy demand highlights the growing importance of sustainable energy solutions in the development of urban transportation systems worldwide.

Projected Revenue and Financial Outlook

Despite the enormous cost, Al-Sultan revealed that the expected revenues from the Riyadh Metro would cover only about 40 percent of the project’s operational costs. This is typical for large-scale public transport systems, which rely on both government funding and long-term operational efficiency to remain viable. The remainder of the costs will likely be covered through government support and investments.

Completion Timeline and Phases

Phase 1 of the Riyadh Metro was officially inaugurated in late November 2023. This milestone marks the beginning of a new era for Riyadh, as it moves toward becoming a more sustainable and traffic-efficient city. Full commissioning of the entire metro network is scheduled for early 2025, which will mark the completion of one of the most significant urban transportation projects in the region.

A Landmark Project for Saudi Arabia

The Riyadh Metro is part of Saudi Arabia's broader vision for modernization and urban development, aimed at reducing the city’s dependence on cars and easing traffic congestion. It also aligns with the kingdom’s Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy and enhance the quality of life for its citizens.

The project began in 2013 when the Saudi government awarded a series of contracts for the design and construction of the metro system. The initial contracts, worth $22.5 billion, included a mix of construction and technology contracts awarded to major global players. Bechtel Corp., a leading US construction company, heads one of the largest consortia responsible for building two lines worth $9.45 billion. Other major companies, including Spain’s Fomento de Construcciones y Contratas and Italy’s Ansaldo STS, also received multi-billion-dollar contracts for the remaining lines.

A Major Step Forward for Public Transport in the Middle East

Once fully operational, the Riyadh Metro is expected to drastically improve public transport options for the city’s growing population. The metro will provide much-needed relief from the city’s notorious traffic jams and offer residents an efficient, modern, and eco-friendly alternative to car travel.

With its world-class design and cutting-edge technology, the Riyadh Metro is set to become a model for future urban transport systems not only in the Middle East but globally. As the project progresses, it will undoubtedly serve as a cornerstone in Saudi Arabia’s vision for a sustainable and technologically advanced future.

As the countdown to full commissioning continues, Riyadh Metro stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia's commitment to developing smart cities and modernizing its infrastructure to meet the needs of a rapidly urbanizing population.