World's Longest Driverless Metro System to Be Launched in Riyadh
Riyadh's new transit system will partially launch on November 27th, covering three key lines as part of a USD 22.5 billion project to ease congestion, reduce car dependency and promote sustainability.
Saudi Arabia’s capital is preparing to launch the USD 22.5 billion Riyadh Metro system, designed to be the longest driverless metro system in the world, with a partial opening on November 27th. The first phase will see the operation of three of the six planned lines, with the remaining lines slated to begin operation by mid-December.
By providing a fast, efficient alternative to car travel, the metro hopes to reduce the city’s reliance on automobiles and ease pressure on its roadways. The first phase will connect key urban areas, including routes from Al Orouba to Batha, King Khalid International Airport Road, and Abdulrahman Bin Auf Street to Sheikh Hassan Bin Hussein Street. These initial lines are expected to provide a needed solution for daily commuters while additional routes, including King Abdullah Road and King Abdulaziz Road, will further expand the system’s coverage by mid-December.
Sustainability is a key focus of the project. The metro system will incorporate solar panels at stations and depots to generate 20% of the energy required for its critical operations. Additionally, the trains will feature energy-efficient technology, including regenerative braking, to help reduce overall power consumption.
