Riyadh Metro Set to Open 'Within Weeks,' Confirms Saudi Transport Minister

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

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Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics, Saleh Al-Jasser, announced that the much-anticipated Riyadh Metro will be operational "within a few weeks," although a specific launch date has not yet been confirmed. Speaking during an interview with Al-Arabiya Business at the Global Logistics Forum in Riyadh, Al-Jasser described the project as a "historic and transformative initiative."

He emphasized that the Riyadh Metro, the largest metro project ever constructed simultaneously, marks a major milestone in the Kingdom’s infrastructure development. The focus is currently on conducting test run operations to ensure everything is ready for public use.

“This project is designed to improve the quality of life for Riyadh’s residents by offering a fast, advanced, and reliable transportation network,” said Al-Jasser. Previous announcements have indicated that the metro’s launch was imminent, but the exact timeline remains unclear.

Al-Jasser linked the metro project to the broader development boom happening across Saudi Arabia, which is part of the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics. He explained that the strategy aims to position Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub, with transportation and logistics playing a crucial role.

In addition to the Riyadh Metro, Al-Jasser discussed key investments being made under the national strategy. This includes the expansion of King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, which is set to become one of the world’s largest airports, and similar developments at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. He also highlighted the launch of Riyadh Air, signaling the rapid growth of the Kingdom’s aviation sector.

During the first day of the Global Logistics Forum, 69 agreements valued at over SR17 billion were signed. The forum, organized by the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, brought together global leaders in the logistics industry to explore emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities for collaboration.

While the Riyadh Metro’s launch date is still pending, the project represents a significant step toward realizing Saudi Arabia’s ambitious vision for its transportation and logistics sectors.