"Riyadh Metro set to transform the city."

- Riyadh Metro is transforming urban mobility with affordability and accessibility, though challenges remain in speed and efficiency.

RIYADH, April 4, 2025: The Riyadh Metro is rapidly transforming the city's public transportation system, offering residents and visitors a cost-effective and efficient alternative to private vehicles and ride-hailing services.

As the metro network expands, its social and economic impact is becoming more evident, easing traffic congestion and influencing real estate trends.

The newly inaugurated Qasr Al-Hokm Station is a significant addition to the metro system, strategically located in Riyadh’s historic district. It provides convenient access to government offices, cultural landmarks, and busy marketplaces, making it a vital hub for both commuters and visitors.

To gain insights into the metro’s impact, several passengers shared their experiences at Qasr Al-Hokm Station, highlighting both its benefits and challenges.

For many, the metro’s affordability and convenience make it an appealing alternative to private transportation. Menna Ali, a regular commuter, praised its cost-effectiveness: “It’s much easier to use and significantly cheaper than other transport options. Plus, you avoid getting stuck in traffic, which makes me happy.”

The metro is also reducing travel times for many passengers. Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, a frequent visitor to the area, shared his positive experience: “I used to struggle to get here, but now my commute takes just 20 minutes. It’s excellent—it saves time, reduces stress, and avoids traffic. Truly great.”

However, while the metro is convenient, some commuters find that multiple transfers make travel time-consuming. Haifa Al-Marhum pointed out this challenge: “Honestly, it takes time—I have to switch between stations. So in terms of speed, no, it does take a while.”

She acknowledged its financial benefits, adding, “It definitely helps with transportation costs, fuel, and even for those who own cars. It’s a great money-saver, and it also reduces traffic.”

Despite its affordability, speed remains a concern. During peak hours, total travel time can be comparable to driving in heavy traffic, raising doubts about whether the metro is a significantly faster option. While it reduces stress and fuel costs, it may not be ideal for those in a hurry.

Passengers at Qasr Al-Hokm Station also praised the metro’s accessibility, clear signage, and helpful staff. Fahad Hussain noted the ease of navigation: “The staff here are very helpful in guiding passengers and explaining locations. Everything is simple, and we haven’t faced any issues. The signage is also everywhere.”

The metro’s modern design and efficiency have impressed international visitors as well. Georgii Korshunov, a Russian traveler, described it as futuristic, comparing it to Moscow’s extensive metro system. Meanwhile, Kate Pirogova highlighted its user-friendly layout: “I like the Riyadh Metro—it’s very modern and easy to navigate.”

To encourage public transport use, authorities have launched a free Uber ride initiative, allowing passengers to activate a voucher through the Uber app for complimentary rides within 3 km of any metro station. This initiative aims to resolve the “last-mile problem” by ensuring smoother connections between metro stations and passengers’ final destinations, making public transport a more practical choice for daily commutes.

The metro’s influence extends beyond transportation—it is also reshaping Riyadh’s real estate market. Landlords and agents are increasingly promoting properties based on their proximity to metro stations, reflecting a rising demand for metro-accessible housing.

This pattern is common in major cities worldwide, where transit-oriented developments often lead to higher property values and increased rental demand. As Riyadh continues expanding its metro network, neighborhoods near stations may experience growing investment potential and desirability.

The Riyadh Metro marks a significant shift in the city’s transportation culture, reducing reliance on private cars and aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for sustainable urban mobility. By providing an affordable, efficient, and eco-friendly alternative, the metro is enhancing connectivity and accessibility in the city.

However, challenges remain in terms of speed and efficiency, especially for those accustomed to faster car travel. While affordability and reliability are key strengths, future improvements—such as express routes, faster trains, or reduced transfer times—may be crucial in encouraging more residents to fully adopt public transportation.